A sake (nihon shu)
In Japanese, sake is called nihon shu. The idea that one can still have of this drink is often distorted by bad experiences. However, it is not a strong alcohol, but a rice wine fermented between 14 and 17°. There are thousands of varieties of nihon shu. The purest and rarest is called junmaishu, the most common sanbaizōshu, and between the two, honjozōshu (which contains no more than 25% added alcohol). Most sake is made with Yamada Nishiki rice, which is produced in the Hyōgo region and is recognized as the best sake rice. In addition to the major national brands, thousands of small-scale producers, who make their own nihon shu(jizake), are trying to make their way in the market. Nihon shu is karakuchi (dry) or amakuchi (sweet). It can be eaten hot(atsukan) or cold(reishu).
A knife
Japanese cutlery, of high quality, is recognized throughout the world, as much by great chefs as by amateur gourmets. And to acquire one of these exceptional knives, nothing better than to go to Sakai, in the Osaka prefecture. With its rich history, the city has played a leading role in the manufacture of weapons and katanas. This tradition has been continued in cutlery and the city is still considered one of the cutlery capitals in Japan. About 80% of the knives produced in the Archipelago come from Sakai, which still has many forges. And it will be difficult to choose. While there are more than 70 shapes of knives, you will also have to choose the wood that makes up the handle, between ebony, mahogany, walnut or cherry. And to cut fish, the blade will be single-edged, while for meat or vegetables, it will be double-edged. If you are in Tokyo, you can go to the Kappabashi district which is dedicated to cooking and restoration. There are many stores selling high quality knives.
A pottery
Japan, a country of art and craftsmen, is full of potters' villages, some of which enjoy a good reputation. In Kansai, one thinks of the township of Sasayama, where is located the potters' village of Tambayaki, whose history begins more than 800 years ago. Numerous craftsmen, about sixty, perpetuate this traditional art in the region. Tambayaki's oldest climbing kiln, or dragon kiln, was first created in 1895. It is a long, narrow kiln built into the side of a hill that can fire a large quantity of pottery. It is still in use today. Other regions of Japan are home to famous pottery villages, such as Imbe in Okayama Prefecture. This pottery village dates back more than seven centuries. It is famous for its Bizen-yaki pottery, which is not glazed and keeps its rusticity. Let's also note the two villages Imari and Arita, in Kyushu.
A daruma
This famous Japanese doll is a red paper mache figure, mostly without arms and legs, and round in shape. It represents the monk called Daruma who is said to have meditated so intensely for years that his arms and legs atrophied. Supposed to bring good luck, it is sold without eyes. One eye is painted when you make a wish, and the other when it comes true. You can find them in different colors, pink meaning love, gold meaning fortune, wealth and money and white meaning marriage, to name a few.
A local craft beer
Although Japanese beer dates back to the Edo period, it really became industrialized at the end of the 19th century thanks to trade with Germany and the United States. Thus, in 1876, the first brewery in Japan was created under the name of Sapporo. But in addition to the behemoths of beer in the Archipelago that are Sapporo, Ebisu or Asahi, it is from 1994, and the relaxation of the laws on alcohol, that several microbreweries were born in Japan. Since then, the market for local craft beer, or ji bīru in Japanese, has been growing and gaining market share. There are many local breweries all over the archipelago that produce their own beers. Some compete with inventiveness for the labels, others have fun to flavor them with original ingredients. It is not uncommon to find them on the tables of restaurants or in the stores of local products.
Incense
Awaji Island is the cradle of incense in Japan. It is known to supply nearly 70% of the country's production. The discovery of fragrant wood in the 6th century and the island's climate and winds, ideal for the drying stage, are at the origin of this ancestral tradition which continues on the island. Hako, founded in 1893, is a typical example of a company that elevates incense to an art form. Its incense papers in the shape of leaves are of a rare elegance. The scents are also very varied, whether it is lemon, cinnamon, matcha or sakura. Awaji incense is a sure value, as well as Kyoto or Sakai incense.
A washi paper
This traditional Japanese paper type is internationally renowned and recognizable among all. Made of wood essences, this paper was introduced to Japan in the 7th century by Buddhist monks from China. This paper comes in hundreds of variations, between the color, the texture or the ornament. It is used in everyday life for pleasure (origami...), to accompany an art (calligraphy for example), but also to dress the interior ( shôji walls or lamps). We appreciate the fact that it lets the light pass through without revealing what is hidden behind.
A lantern chôchin
Paper lanterns on thin bamboo frames, chōchin have a thousand years of history. They come in a variety of shapes, usually round, and can be flattened. Initially, they are there to give a landmark to passers-by. They discreetly illuminate the street. Today, they are still used as signs for some bars and restaurants and they are also used during matsuri (popular festivals). For more authenticity, it is advised to visit small shops, avoiding the most touristic ones. Gifu lanterns are particularly famous. Although fragile, some shops offer a storage system with a cardboard box, which allows you to put them in your suitcase without risking a bad surprise on your return.
Fan
There are two kinds mainly. Theōgi, the best known, is hinged and foldable like the Andalusian fans. It is said to have appeared at the Kyōto court and was an object of male pageantry. The other, older one, theuchiwa, looks like a small racket. It has a rounded shape and is made of paper, mounted on a bamboo handle. You will find many examples along your journey in Japan, from the simplest to the most chic and luxurious.
