"Asahikawa Sweets Expo" Returns to Hokkaido for the First Time in 57 Years – Nationwide Confectionery Exhibition Begins in May with Official Mascot "Shimae Daifuku"
A grand confectionery exhibition showcasing sweets from across Japan will be held in Hokkaido for the first time in 57 years.
With just 100 days until the opening, the full details of the event have been announced.
Reporter: Kiyoka Asahara
"The venue will feature a vast array of sweets from all over Japan, including Okinawa 's chinsuko and Nagasaki's castella."
From Mie Prefecture 's famous Akafuku, filled with smooth red bean paste, to Shizuoka Prefecture's crispy Unagi Pie, a wide variety of local delicacies will be available.
A press conference for the "Asahikawa Sweets Expo 2025", set to begin in May in Asahikawa, Hokkaido, was held on the 19th in Sapporo.
This exhibition takes place once every four years in different regions of Japan.
This footage shows the event when it was last held in Hokkaido, in 1968, at Odori Park in Sapporo. This year's expo marks the first time in 57 years that it will be hosted in the region.
The theme for Asahikawa Sweets Expo 2025 is "SMILE SWEETS HOKKAIDO", aiming to bring smiles to many through Hokkaido, a treasure trove of confectionery ingredients.
The official mascot, "Shimae Daifuku", made an appearance at the press conference to promote the event.
A projection mapping display at the venue will showcase the journey from ingredient harvesting to the final creation of sweets, offering an engaging visual experience.
The main attraction? Over 1,000 types of sweets from across Japan! Among them, a famous confection from Yamanashi Prefecture…
Reporter: Kiyoka Asahara
"I wonder how to open this..."
The Shingen Mochi from Kinseiken is a delicate rice cake buried in a generous amount of roasted soybean flour (kinako), enjoyed with the accompanying black sugar syrup.
Reporter: Kiyoka Asahara
"The mildly sweet mochi pairs perfectly with the kinako. The rich aroma of the black sugar syrup spreads in your mouth, offering a truly authentic wagashi (traditional Japanese sweet) experience."
Additionally, seven major confectionery manufacturers will set up booths, hosting interactive events for parents and children.
Akio Naganuma, Chairman of Asahikawa Sweets Expo
"It's a rare opportunity to see sweets from all over Japan gathered in Hokkaido. I hope families will come and enjoy the event together."
The Asahikawa Sweets Expo will be held for 17 days from May 30 to June 15 at three venues in Asahikawa City, expecting around 200,000 visitors.
"National Gourmet Festival" Kicks Off in Sapporo – Over 130,000 Visitors Expected in Two Weeks! Long Lines Form at Opening
A selection of Japan's finest local gourmet specialties has arrived in Sapporo! The highly popular event officially opened on February 18.
The sizzling aroma of freshly grilled Hamamatsu Gyoza, a specialty from Shizuoka Prefecture, fills the air—each dumpling packed with rich, savory meat flavor.
The "National Gourmet Festival" began on the 18th at Marui Imai Sapporo Main Store. This massive food event attracts over 130,000 visitors in just two weeks.
This year's main attraction? Premium meat dishes from all over Japan!
One of the biggest crowd-pullers was Tokyo's "Kichijoji Satou", known for its original round Menchi Katsu (fried minced meat cutlet).
Reporter: Rin Itou
"It's incredibly meaty! You can really taste the juiciness of the beef!"
Making its debut at the festival from Yamagata Prefecture is the luxurious Roast Beef & Steak Nigiri, featuring premium Yonezawa Beef.
From Hyogo Prefecture, the renowned Kobe Beef specialty store is opening its first-ever shop in Hokkaido, offering a "Colorful Bento" featuring grilled beef and gyumeshi (beef rice).
Visitors' Reactions:
"I bought black pork, grilled mackerel, and beef. My husband loves char siu, so I got that too!"
"I come here every year! I always make sure to buy tea and dried persimmons. I absolutely love the Gourmet Festival—I also never miss the Hokkaido Fair!"
The event also boasts an impressive lineup of sweets. One standout is a tiramisu specialty shop from Osaka, making its first appearance in Hokkaido. Visitors can indulge in this rich, creamy dessert infused with aromatic espresso—a highly talked-about treat!
The first phase of the National Gourmet Festival runs until February 24 at Marui Imai Sapporo Main Store, with the second phase taking place from February 25 to March 2.
Almost Human? Androids Designed for the "Future 50 Years From Now" to be Showcased at Expo Pavilion
(February 19, 2025, 17:54)
With less than two months until the opening of the Osaka-Kansai Expo, major pavilion highlights were unveiled on February 19.
Among them was a humanoid robot—an android—designed to operate in a world 50 years into the future.
Reporter's On-Site Report
"This is the newly revealed android. When compared to my own movements, it's impressively smooth."
This futuristic android is set to play an active role in society 50 years from now.
At the Signature Pavilion "Future of Life", led by robotics expert Hiroshi Ishiguro, visitors will encounter 30 robots, including a guiding android.
Hiroshi Ishiguro, Pavilion Producer
"The more people interact with them, the more they'll feel a sense of connection. I hope this pavilion will inspire visitors to truly think about the future."
Additionally, avatar robots made from stone, bamboo, and even traditional Japanese washi paper will be featured, offering an immersive experience in human-robot coexistence.
Meanwhile, at International Pavilions…
Singapore Pavilion
The Singapore Pavilion, known for its striking 17-meter-tall red sphere, revealed details about its previously undisclosed interactive experience.
Visitors can write or draw their dreams on an interactive panel. The system then transforms their dreams into animations, which are projected onto a screen.
Carrie Kwik, Executive Director of the Singapore Pavilion
"The 'Dream Station' allows visitors to freely imagine and customize their dreams in an interactive space."
Czech Pavilion
Last October, news anchor Yoshihara explored the Czech Pavilion's kitchen, which is housed inside a structure with a stunning Bohemian glass exterior.
On February 19, the pavilion officially unveiled its restaurant menu, featuring a unique dumpling dish.
Ondřej Soška, Czech Government Representative
"There is a saying in Japan: 'Dango over flowers' (meaning practicality over aesthetics). That's why we made dumplings the centerpiece of our menu. And of course, they pair perfectly with Czech beer!"
These traditional Czech dumplings are made with a soft, fluffy dough, similar to the skin of a Japanese meat bun, and are filled with duck, mushrooms, and other ingredients.
Reporter's On-Site Report
"The texture is chewy and fluffy, and the sweet-savory sauce inside complements it perfectly!"
By incorporating a familiar "dumpling culture", the Czech Pavilion hopes to introduce visitors to the authentic flavors of Czech cuisine.
[Golden Kabuto] A Gift for President Trump—Made in Aichi!?
Only One Week to Complete!(Ama City, Aichi Prefecture)
At the Japan-U.S. Summit held in February, Prime Minister Ishiba presented President Trump with a golden kabuto (samurai helmet) as a gift.
Surprisingly, this impressive golden helmet was actually crafted in Aichi Prefecture!
"The Sumitomo Family...?" A Major Discovery at Osaka City Museum of Fine Arts Ahead of Its 90th Anniversary!
The Osaka City Museum of Fine Arts is undergoing its first major renovation since opening, and during construction, the original ceiling from 1936 was discovered.
Graffiti from the post-war GHQ occupation was also found, and parts of these historical remnants will be preserved as a testament to the museum's past.
The museum was built with a donation from the Sumitomo family, and its walls feature decorative elements inspired by their family crest.
After renovations, a new terrace offering a panoramic view of Keitakuen Garden will be added, and advanced lighting technology will enhance the presentation of artworks.
In addition to "timely JAPAN KANSAI news" that is easy to understand and easy to convey, A lot of sports planning, collaborative planning and commentary with NikKei News! We will deliver it every day.
[Nishinari] Where Do the Homeless Go in the Freezing Winter? A Changing "Workers' Town" Leaves Kin-chan Speechless!? Stories of People with a Past… "Ninjō Udon: Winter 2025 Edition"
The Airin General Center, a symbol of Nishinari and Kamagasaki, was built in 1970 as a support facility for day laborers, providing job placements, labor accident consultations, and other assistance. The area also had housing, hospitals, and eateries, thriving as a workers' town during Japan's post-war economic boom. However, after the bubble economy burst, many unemployed and homeless individuals took refuge in the center.
Due to aging infrastructure, the facility was shut down in 2019, but homeless individuals continued to stay in the surrounding area, delaying redevelopment. Legal battles ensued, culminating in an eviction order, and in December of last year, a forced removal took place.
Nishinari's transformation extends beyond the center. "Shikaku Park," located behind the Nishinari Police Station, was once home to a vibrant open-air market on weekends and a shelter for the homeless. Since last year, fences have been installed, and renovation work has begun. Meanwhile, traditional nagaya alley houses have been converted into guest accommodations, attracting an influx of foreign tourists—especially with the upcoming Expo 2025 on the horizon.
Yet, one thing remains unchanged: the spirit of compassion for those in need. For the past five years, Kin-chan, a former yakuza member, has been serving free udon to people with nowhere else to turn. His small shop continues to welcome the hungry and struggling, offering them a warm meal and a place to belong.
Through the stories of these people, this piece captures a city in transition and the unwavering kindness that endures.
In addition to "timely JAPAN KANSAI news" that is easy to understand and easy to convey, A lot of sports planning, collaborative planning and commentary with NikKei News! We will deliver it every day.
Even graffiti becomes a historical artifact after 1,000 years.
"1,000-Year-Old Graffiti Discovered"
No. CFNH(G)-0073_8
[Released in June 1947 (Showa 22)]
The dismantling and renovation work of the Shoryoin Hall of Horyu-ji Temple began in Showa 17 (1942). On May 24, during the rebuilding and ridge-raising ceremony, an investigation of the ceiling boards revealed graffiti estimated to be around 1,000 years old, attracting public attention.
Graffiti from the Edo Period Discovered at a Shrine in Hamamatsu City
Did Carpenters of the Time Draw Them? – Includes Sketches of Babies and Tapirs
January 18, 2022
#EdoPeriod #Shrine #Graffiti
Graffiti believed to date back to the Edo period has been discovered during restoration work on the shrine gate of Akihasan Shrine in Haruno Town, Tenryu Ward, Hamamatsu City, which is designated as a cultural property.
Hitomi Harasaki, Reporter: "The graffiti was found in the attic of the shrine gate, which is currently undergoing renovation."
Akihasan Shrine, located in Haruno Town, Tenryu Ward, is said to have been founded in 709.
Its shrine gate, built in 1831 during the Edo period, has been under restoration since April of last year. During the dismantling and repair work, graffiti believed to have been drawn by carpenters of that time was discovered. All of the sketches were made with ink.
Among the drawings were:
A carpenter holding a plane
A woman carrying a baby on her back
A bodhisattva
A tapir (baku)
Gaku Kito, Deputy Chief Priest of Akihasan Shrine: "It's incredible that these drawings have survived. It's almost miraculous. We don't know whether they were made out of boredom or used as rough sketches for carvings, but it seems they were drawn by someone with either a playful spirit or artistic talent."
Although the graffiti is not usually visible to the public, the shrine hopes that visitors will enjoy viewing them during city-organized events when they are open for public display.
Currently, Akihasan Shrine is offering an opportunity for visitors to write their wishes on wooden boards used in the restoration work for a donation of 3,000 yen per board.
Perhaps, centuries from now, someone will come across the wishes you leave behind today.
Chisel Discovered in the Attic of a National Treasure – Daitoku-ji, Kyoto
October 18, 2022
A chisel, believed to date back to the Kanei 12 (1635) construction period, has been discovered in the attic of the hojo (main hall) at Daitoku-ji Temple (Kita Ward, Kyoto City), the head temple of the Rinzai sect's Daitoku-ji school, originally founded in the late Kamakura period (14th century).
The Kyoto Prefectural Board of Education announced the discovery on October 18.
The chisel is a double-edged type, which is no longer produced today. The board speculates that it may have been a carpenter's forgotten tool left behind during the temple's construction.
Modern miyadaiku (traditional shrine and temple carpenters) also leave records inside buildings upon completing restoration work—a challenge to future miyadaiku.
In the past, craftsmen would leave graffiti in hidden places within structures.
In most cases, graffiti is frowned upon, but in our profession, we are praised for it.
"Breaking Through with Sushi": Toyama Claims Japan's No.1 "Sushi Prefecture" Title—Its Greatest Strength Lies in the "Natural Fish Tank" of Toyama Bay
TBS NEWS DIG | February 20, 2025
Last year, Toyama overtook Ishikawa, the long-time champion, to claim the top spot in Japan's sushi consumption rankings. Aiming to become the nation's No.1 "Sushi Prefecture," what's th
Toyama Becomes Japan's No.1 "Sushi Prefecture"? The "Natural Fish Tank" of Toyama Bay
Caster Kazuto Kumazaki:
Whe
Which Prefecture Comes to Mind for Sushi? (2023 Toyama Prefecture Survey)
Survey Target: About 4,000 residents in Tokyo, Osaka, and Aichi
1st: Hokkaido – 52.1%
2nd: Tokyo – 9.5%
3rd: Ishikawa – 9.2%
4th: Toyama – 8.9%
5th: Shizuoka – 4.1%
More than half of respondents answered Hokkaido. Toyama, currently ranked 4th, has an ambitious goal: raising this number to 90%.
To achieve this, Toyama has been actively branding itself with the slogan "When you think of sushi, think of Toyama" since 2023. Efforts include:
Matching young sushi chefs from outside the prefecture with local sushi restaurants
Supporting the establishment of sushi chef training schools
Toyama has consistently ranked in the 20s in Japan's annual "Attractiveness Ranking." Since this mid-tier ranking often goes unnoticed, the Toyama Branding Promotion Office explained:
Toyama Branding Promotion Office:
"Toyama is always in the 20s in attractiveness rankings. We wanted to break through with a concrete image—sushi."
Toyama Bay's Unique Geography & Abundant Seafood
Toyama boasts an incredible natural advantage—Toyama Bay, a deep-sea environment fed by the 3,000-meter-high Tateyama mountain range. The bay has three distinct water layers:
Coastal Surface Waters – Yellowtail, Bigfin Reef Squid
Tsushima Warm Current – Sweet Shrimp, Glass Shrimp, Firefly Squid
Japan Sea Deep Water – Genge Fish, Red Snow Crab
The Genge Fish, in particular, is known as the "phantom fish." Toyama Bay is home to about 500 species of seafood (out of approximately 800 species in the Sea of Japan), earning it the nickname "Natural Fish Tank."
Why Sushi? A Holistic Branding Approach
Sushi is globally recognized as "SUSHI", making it a perfect way to promote Toyama comprehensively. The branding strategy integrates:
Sushi toppings: Fresh seafood from Toyama Bay
Sushi rice: Locally produced rice
Pairings: Local sake & traditional crafts
By emphasizing sushi, Toyama can highlight its entire regional brand.
Caster Takahiro Inoue:
"That explanation makes perfect sense. But considering this strategy, Ishikawa seems like Toyama's biggest rival."
Historical & Period Novelist Shogo Imamura:
"So the plan is to dominate the Sea of Japan first, then challenge the 'final boss,' Hokkaido?"
Caster Kumazaki:
"The key question is how Toyama will compete with Hokkaido, a formidable opponent, in the race for 90% recognition."
Toyama's Quest to Become the No.1 "Sushi Prefecture" – Even Conveyor Belt Sushi is Top-Tier
Some of Toyama's high-level sushi spots include:
Mawaru Toyama Bay "Sushidama" (Toyama Kakeo Main Store, Toyama City)
Local Sushi Set (¥2,750) – Includes Red Snow Crab, Sweet Shrimp, Glass Shrimp, etc.
Bonus: Free miso soup on weekdays
"Banya no Sushi" (Osawano Branch, Toyama City)
Nodoguro (Blackthroat Seaperch) – ¥820
Thread-sail Filefish (Kawahagi) – ¥367 (Firefly Squid in season from March)
Additionally, Toyama City was named one of the "52 Places to Visit in 2025" by The New York Times, alongside Osaka as the only two Japanese cities on the list.
A journalist from The New York Times particularly recommended:
Tachigui Sushi "Jinjin" (Toyama City)
Standing Sushi Course (8 pieces, ¥4,180~) – Includes Red Snow Crab, Glass Shrimp
Served with Chawanmushi (steamed egg custard) & soup
Caster Inoue:
"Everything looks delicious! Achieving 90% recognition is a tough challenge, but sushi is a clear and compelling identity for Toyama."
Shogo Imamura:
"Absolutely. The quality speaks for itself—Toyama just needs more people to discover it."
Why Here? The "Most Difficult to Visit Famous Restaurants in Japan" – The Ramen Palace Built by a Passionate Owner and His Message [J's Investigation] [Super J Channel] (May 26, 2024)
The investigation team headed to Uozu City, Toyama Prefecture, in the middle of the night. In the darkness, silhouettes of people could be seen heading toward a certain building. Meanwhile, cars started gathering in the parking lot from midnight, and by dawn, it was almost full. Inside, a long line stretched down the hallway. But what awaited at the end of it?
Meanwhile, deep in the mountains of Chiba, there is a legendary local ramen shop rumored to be the "most difficult to visit famous restaurant in Japan." What makes this place worth the trip, despite its remote location?
Why here? We investigate the secrets of these queue-filled restaurants.
A Midnight Queue for the "Crab Extravaganza Set Meal"
In Uozu City, Toyama Prefecture, a mysterious queue forms in the middle of the night. Visitors come from outside the prefecture as well.
Customers:
"I'm from Hyogo."
"I came from Aichi."
"I'm from Shimizu, Shizuoka. I've been craving this so much."
"Since it's a limited special, we arrived at 3 AM, right?"
"We left Ibaraki at 9 PM the night before and arrived here at 3 AM."
Family from Ibaraki:
"We're so excited."
This place is actually a "Sea Station" adjacent to Uozu Port, and today marks the special "Morning Market" held only on the second and fourth Sundays of each month. Fresh and rare seafood caught in Toyama Bay, such as hatahata (sandfish), mebaru (rockfish), and deep-sea fish like genge, are available at bargain prices, drawing large crowds every time.
However, the real reason for the queue lies elsewhere.
At 6:30 AM, the long-awaited moment arrives.
What these customers have waited all night for is the "Crab Extravaganza Set Meal", featuring an entire premium red snow crab (beni-zuwai-gani).
The meal includes:
Ultimate crab soup, made with large crab legs simmered with daikon radish, napa cabbage, and burdock root for a rich, umami-packed broth.
Grilled crab miso in the shell, where the flavorful crab miso and meat are carefully grilled over charcoal.
Crab rice, a luxurious dish of crab-infused rice topped with even more freshly shelled crab meat.
Truly a crab lover's dream, and the price? Unbelievably, just 1,200 yen ($8 USD).
Considering that whole crabs were being sold for 2,500 yen ($17 USD) at the morning market that day, this meal is an absolute steal.
The number of set meals available is extremely limited due to supply constraints—only 30 servings were offered that day. That's why people start lining up in the middle of the night.
So, what happened to the family from Ibaraki? Family from Ibaraki:
"It was worth the wait."
"I'm speechless."
"The crab miso in the grilled shell was amazing. The cost-performance ratio is unbeatable. Hehe."
One man even placed the grilled crab miso on top of his crab rice for an even more luxurious experience. Customer:
"It feels so extravagant."
■ The Secret Behind the Popularity of the "Crab Extravaganza Set Meal"
The "Crab Extravaganza Set Meal," which started last November, has gained immense popularity. But what makes it so special? The mastermind behind it, Satoshi Asano (52), shares his thoughts: Asano: "Freshness. It's all about freshness. If we don't catch it, we can't serve it."
The secret to its popularity lies in the fact that they use only freshly caught red snow crabs. Because of this, there are days when the meal is unavailable if no crabs are landed.
The day before the morning market, Asano headed to the fishing port. A basket full of red snow crabs was successfully hauled in. Asano: (Q: You must be relieved that the crabs were caught.)
"Yes, I really am."
Asano breathed a sigh of relief. Asano: "Since we only use freshly caught crabs, we are always at the mercy of the weather and the waves."
To preserve the umami and freshness, the crabs are immediately boiled in saltwater as soon as they are brought ashore.
Even though the Crab Extravaganza Set Meal is offered at a rock-bottom price, all for the satisfaction of the customers… Asano: "When I see the happy faces of our customers, I feel like it was all worth it." ■ A Famous Ramen Shop in a "Hidden, Remote Location"
Next, we headed to Mobara Station in Chiba Prefecture.
There, deep in the mountains, lies a famous ramen shop that somehow manages to attract long lines of customers. Local resident: "It's a bit different from regular ramen. The line was insanely long."
Another resident added: Local resident: "It's like a hidden spot. You wouldn't be able to find it on your first try."
We decided to ask a local taxi driver who knew the location to take us there. As we drove, houses became sparse, and we entered the mountains.
Dense trees surrounded us, with towering peaks on our right. After navigating several curves, about 20 minutes had passed. Taxi driver: "You wouldn't expect a ramen shop to be around here..."
Nestled deep in the mountains of the Boso Peninsula, halfway up a mountain pass, stood the solitary ramen shop. By the way, the taxi fare for this ride was about 4,000 yen ($27 USD).
As the 11 AM opening time approached, a crowd began to form at the entrance—over 40 people in total. Customer from Kanagawa: "I skipped breakfast for this." Customer from Saitama: (Q: What kind of ramen is it?)
"One of the 'Big Three Ramen' of Chiba."
Chiba's Three Great Ramen: "Katsuura Tantanmen," "Takeoka-style Ramen," and this shop's very own "Ariran Ramen."
People travel all the way here just to taste it—that's how special Ariran Ramen is. With an eye-catching dark broth and a generous amount of onions, it's a dish that leaves an impression.
This time, I tried the shop's most popular item, the "Ariran Chashu," which features Ariran Ramen topped with slices of chashu pork.
The broth has a mild spiciness that follows after the first sip, but the sweetness of the onions and chashu balances it out beautifully. The noodles are smooth, chewy, and satisfying.
The Creator of Ariran Ramen
The man behind this unique ramen is the shop's owner, Toyo Furuichi (72).
One of his key principles is to start stir-frying the garlic and onions only after an order is placed. Furuichi: "Once it reaches a certain point, that's when I add the broth."
This broth is the heart and soul of Ariran Ramen, and its preparation begins every morning at 8 AM. Furuichi: "Right now, I've got pork bones, dried sardines, and kelp in here."
Inside the pot, pork bones, kelp, and dried sardines from Chiba's coastal waters simmer together. The secret ingredient? A generous amount of green onions and onions, used whole—stems and all. Furuichi: "The umami is in the layers between the skin and flesh. The ends and stems of the onions are incredibly sweet."
After eight hours of slow simmering, the broth turns into a rich, golden liquid. This is then combined with stir-fried onions, the flavorful juices from the chashu, and a house-made chili oil to create Ariran Ramen's signature spicy broth.
The noodles, which Furuichi proudly states have a "different kind of firmness," are made in a separate factory built just for them.
The special dough is rolled and compressed repeatedly—seven times in total. Furuichi: "By passing it through the machine multiple times, we create noodles that are firm and wonderfully chewy."
Finally, the freshly boiled house-made medium-thick noodles are drenched in the flavorful broth, completing the dish.
Why Open a Shop in the Middle of a Mountain Pass?
But why did Furuichi choose to open his shop in this remote mountain pass?
The answer dates back about 54 years when he first set up a ramen cart in this exact location. Furuichi: "I used to sell roasted sweet potatoes from morning till night, then switch to ramen at night."
After a failed business venture left him in debt, he worked tirelessly to repay it. Furuichi: "I worked and worked—about 19 hours a day."
Two years later, his ramen cart gained a reputation, and he decided to open a permanent shop in the very place where he made his comeback.
The name Ariran Ramen comes from the Korean folk song Arirang, which mentions a mountain pass. Furuichi: "Since we're located at a mountain pass, I thought adding garlic to make an energizing ramen would help travelers cross it more easily."
With a wish to "give strength to those who eat it," Furuichi and his wife, Nobue, ran the shop together. Now, Ariran Ramen sells up to 400 bowls a day and has even expanded with branch locations. Furuichi: "This year, we've been aiming to surpass 100 million yen in revenue."
Furuichi's "Ramen Dream" and His Message
Furuichi has a message he wants to share. Furuichi: "My property is about 1,500 tsubo (roughly 5,000 square meters)."
His two-story, 5LDK home is a true "ramen mansion." In his garage sits a special car. Furuichi: "I've been driving this Porsche for ten years. If you work hard enough, even a ramen business can bring you success. I want people to dream big and keep pushing forward."
Every June, he invites locals to his property for a festival.
Furuichi has achieved his "ramen dream"—his Ariran Ramen is now recognized as one of Chiba's three great ramen.
However, just two months ago, he lost his beloved wife, Nobue, who had supported the business for 40 years. Furuichi: "She had breast cancer. Normally, it's easy to detect, but we couldn't catch it in time."
He devoted himself to caring for her, and her last words still resonate in his heart. Furuichi: "She used to say, 'I had so much fun.' She always told me that being with me was fun."
The ramen they built together, Ariran Ramen, lives on. And Furuichi continues to make it, here in this mountain pass. Furuichi: "This was the first place I ever ran a business. I have to hold my ground here, no matter what."
It's been a while since we've been over there, but for Toyama, Himi (氷見市) is pretty well known for its fish.
Due to it being a turnaround point for many of my bike rides, and if that happens around lunch, two places in Kanazawa that I stop by now and then are Hosho Sushi (more expensive and less busy) or Kosei Shokudo (which is cheaper, but typically has a line at the door--and a tip would be to look at the dishes up on the walls rather than choosing off the menu).
(And as long as you're in the area, the Iki Iki Market is worth a quick browse.
Seafood Gourmet Festival Held at Yoyogi Park, Tokyo
February 22, 2025
A seafood gourmet event is being held at Yoyogi Park in Shibuya, Tokyo, offering visitors a chance to enjoy fresh seafood dishes. Around 80 booths are set up at the venue, featuring a variety of regional specialties and fishermen's meals from across Japan, including Noto oysters grilled in traditional "Gangan-yaki" style.
On the first day of the long weekend, the event was blessed with clear skies and attracted many families. The festival will continue until February 24.
Reconstruction of Kanazawa Castle's Ninomaru Palace Begins This Month—The Revival of Its Magnificent Decorations
The reconstruction of Kanazawa Castle's Ninomaru Palace, which was lost to fire more than 40 years ago, is finally set to begin this month. As Kanazawa Castle takes on a new form, what kind of building will emerge?
From Nezumitamon Gate to Gojikken Nagaya, various structures have been restored at Kanazawa Castle. Now, preparations are underway for the next reconstruction project.
A Step Towards Restoration
Assistant Section Chief Nobuhiro Owaki of the Ishikawa Prefecture Civil Engineering Department's Park and Green Space Division explains: "This area is the Ninomaru compound. It is currently enclosed by walls, but during the Edo period, this was the site of the palace. The location of the planned restoration for the Ninomaru Palace is right here."
Located in the center of Kanazawa Castle Park, the Ninomaru Palace was lost to fire during the Meiji era , about 140 years ago.
The palace, which spanned an impressive 3,200 tsubo (approximately 10,500 square meters), consisted of three main sections:
"Omotegata" – A ceremonial and administrative space
"Goima-mawari" – The residential area for the domain lord
"Okugata" – The living quarters for the lord's mother and concubines
The Focus of Reconstruction
Assistant Section Chief Owaki continues: "The Ninomaru Palace we are about to restore was adjacent to the Gojikken Nagaya, with its entrance located right here in front. This time, we are focusing on reconstructing the ceremonial area, particularly the spaces adorned with decorative wall paintings."
These include vivid wall paintings of tigers and lavish coffered ceilings, revealing the palace's former grandeur based on historical documents.
"The entrance, the Shikidai (reception area), the 'Tiger Room,' and the 'Jikken Room'—these were the palace's most iconic spaces, and we believe they will become a new attraction for Kanazawa Castle."
A Long-Term Reconstruction Project
Following the relocation of Kanazawa University from the castle grounds, Kanazawa Castle's full-scale restoration began in the 2000s. In 2001, Kanazawa Castle Park was opened, followed by the restoration of Hishiyagura Tower and Gojikken Nagaya.
2010: Kahoku Gate was reconstructed
2015: Hashizume-mon Gate's second gate, the main entrance to Ninomaru, was restored
July 2019: Nezumitamon Gate and Nezumitamon Bridge on the western side of the castle were completed
Among the many structures being restored to their former glory, the reconstruction of Ninomaru Palace is considered the final major project.
Reiwa-era Castle Construction Begins
Ishikawa Prefecture Governor Hiroshi Hase states: "The groundbreaking ceremony for Kanazawa Castle's Ninomaru Palace will take place on March 9, and we will begin constructing the temporary roofing structure to cover the construction site."
As part of the "Visible Kanazawa Castle" initiative, the prefecture plans to install monitors showing the construction progress and hold hands-on events where visitors can experience traditional craftsmanship. By the end of the 2025 fiscal year, work will begin on assembling the palace's foundations and columns.
Governor Hase continues: "This is a significant project inherited from former Governor Masanori Tanimoto, and we are now entering its final stage. The restoration of Ninomaru Palace is essential as a cultural pillar for the people of Ishikawa, connecting back to the legacy of the Maeda clan."
With several years of construction ahead, the "Reiwa-era castle construction" is now officially underway.
Surge in Foreign Tourists at Togakushi Shrine's Sacred Path—But Concerns Over Trespassing in Restricted Areas
In winter, popular tourist destinations for foreign visitors in Nagano include ski resorts like Hakuba Village and Nozawa Onsen Village. However, a new hotspot outside of skiing is gaining attention—Togakushi in Nagano City.
From early morning, long lines form at bus stops, and a large number of foreign tourists visit Togakushi daily.
However, an increasing number of visitors have been seen entering restricted areas, prompting the local tourism association to urge tourists to follow the rules and enjoy their visit safely. (Broadcast on February 24, 2025)
Whiskey's Flavor is 70% Determined by the Barrel – A Surge in Orders from Japan and Abroad: Craftsmanship at a Specialized "Western Barrel" Factory
Barrels play a crucial role in the art of whiskey-making.
In Tsunomachi, Miyazaki Prefecture, there is a rare specialized factory dedicated to Western-style barrels.
With orders pouring in from both Japan and overseas, we took a closer look at the factory's dedication to craftsmanship and attention to detail in barrel-making. (Broadcast on February 26, 2025, on MRT Television's "Check!")
Foot Shape Data from 260,000 People: MoonStar Evolves from School Shoes to an Adult-Focused Brand [Local Business Satellite – LBS]
MoonStar, headquartered in Fukuoka Prefecture, is Japan's leading manufacturer of school indoor shoes, widely used in schools across the country.
Now, the company is expanding into adult footwear, gaining popularity for its simple yet stylish designs.
One of its flagship brands is "810s" (Eight-Tens), named to represent "just the right shoes." Priced at around 7,000 yen, these shoes feature a versatile design suitable for everyday wear, regardless of age or gender.
Leveraging its expertise in professional footwear, MoonStar has incorporated suction-like soles that provide better grip on wet surfaces.
Additionally, the company has analyzed foot shape data from 260,000 Japanese people, ensuring a comfortable fit for wider and higher-arched feet.
Amid declining birth rates, a shrinking market, and rising costs, MoonStar has shifted away from its reliance on school shoes, successfully reaching a new customer base. Since its launch in 2020, sales have quadrupled, and the company is now looking toward international expansion.
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Atomic Clock with 1-Second Error in 10 Billion Years: "Optical Lattice Clock" Now Available for ¥500 Million
On the 5th, Shimadzu Corporation began accepting orders for its optical lattice clock, which boasts an accuracy of just one-second deviation over 10 billion years. The price per unit is ¥500 million (approximately $3.3 million USD).
Nishimoto, Director of Shimadzu's Fundamental Technology Research Institute, stated: "The optical lattice clock has the potential to become a future social infrastructure."
This cutting-edge timepiece works by trapping atoms in a lattice structure created by laser light and measuring their oscillations. It is over 100 times more accurate than the cesium atomic clocks, which currently define the global standard for a second.
Thanks to the principles of general relativity, it can detect minute altitude differences based on time variations, making it highly valuable for monitoring plate tectonics, crustal movements, and other geophysical applications.
Shimadzu aims to sell 10 units within three years, with each priced at ¥500 million.
"Sagemon Meguri" Begins in Yanagawa: Showcasing One of Japan's Top Three Hanging Ornaments
Ahead of Hinamatsuri (Girls' Day), the annual Sagemon Meguri festival began on February 11 in Yanagawa, Fukuoka Prefecture. Festive floats decorated with Sagemon, one of Japan's top three traditional hanging ornaments, paraded through the city.
At Hiyoshi Shrine, the Ohina-sama Hajime-sai (Hinamatsuri Opening Ceremony) was held, with around 20 young girls dressed as ochigo (child attendants) participating. Inside the shrine, colorful Sagemon made from kimono fabric scraps adorned the space, while prayers were offered for the girls' healthy growth before the hina dolls representing the Emperor and Empress.
Following the ceremony, floats carrying the children set off from the shrine to the sound of drums, making their way through the town as they waved to spectators along the streets.
In Yanagawa, it is a long-standing tradition to hang Sagemon decorations in homes celebrating Hinamatsuri, and this custom is recognized as one of Japan's three major hanging ornament traditions.
The Sagemon Meguri festival will continue until April 3, and on March 16, the Ohina-sama Water Parade will be held on the city's canals.
Ohina-sama Water Parade: A Spring Tradition in Yanagawa
On March 20, 2025, the annual Ohina-sama Water Parade was held in Yanagawa, a water town in Fukuoka Prefecture. Children dressed in chigo (ceremonial attire) gracefully floated down the river, adorned with traditional Sagemon decorations, in donko boats.
Approximately 100 children in elegant costumes toured the city by boat, creating a picturesque scene that marked the arrival of spring. The Ohina-sama Water Parade is a highlight of the Sagemon Meguri, an event celebrating the season in Yanagawa. Originally scheduled for March 16, the parade was postponed to the 20th due to rain.
As the donko boats carrying the children gently made their way through the canal, bathed in warm spring sunlight, spectators watched in admiration. The Sagemon Meguri continues until April 3, culminating in the Nagashi-bina Festival, where paper hina dolls carrying written wishes are floated down the canal.
"Sea Cruise" from Kitakyushu Airport: Enjoy Scenic Views of Moji Port Retro and More – A Demonstration Experiment
A demonstration experiment has begun, connecting Kitakyushu Airport and the sightseeing spots in the Kanmon area by boat. Passengers can enjoy the ocean scenery while heading to their destinations.
"Fly & Cruise" – A Three-Day Limited Event
RKB Reporter Taishi Iwamoto:
"I am about to board this boat departing from Kitakyushu Airport and heading to Shimonoseki City in Yamaguchi Prefecture."
The "Fly & Cruise" service, jointly operated by Kitakyushu City and Shimonoseki City for three days starting on the 27th, connects Kitakyushu Airport with Shimonoseki City—home to retro-style buildings in Moji Port and Karato Market—via a one-hour boat ride.
As the boat departs the airport and enters the Kanmon Strait, passengers can also view Hesaki Lighthouse, a nationally designated Important Cultural Property built in the early Meiji era.
A Unique View of the Kanmon Bridge from the Sea
RKB Reporter Taishi Iwamoto:
"You can see the Kanmon Bridge, which connects Kitakyushu and Shimonoseki, from directly below. Up close, it looks incredibly powerful."
After stopping at Moji Port, the boat arrives at Karato Terminal in Shimonoseki in about ten minutes.
Among the passengers on this demonstration cruise were a group of tourists from South Korea. South Korean Tourist:
"It was amazing!" Kitakyushu Mayor Kazuhisa Takeuchi:
"We want to establish a new level of collaboration between the Kanmon cities."
"A New Challenge Connecting Sky and Sea"
With Moji Port Retro District celebrating its 30th anniversary in 2025, Kitakyushu Mayor Takeuchi and Shimonoseki Mayor Maeda are working to strengthen ties between their cities. This demonstration cruise was realized following a top-level meeting in October 2024. Kitakyushu Mayor Kazuhisa Takeuchi:
"This is our first attempt to connect air and sea travel. Through this demonstration experiment, we hope to identify challenges and opportunities to refine the service."
Kitakyushu City is also considering the possibility of regular operations in the future.
The demonstration cruises run three round trips per day until March 29, and passengers can board if there are available seats on the day of departure.
"Japan's Busiest" Fukuoka Airport Begins Operation of Second Runway – Takeoff/Landing Capacity Increases from 38 to 40 Flights per Hour, Improving Convenience and Reducing Congestion (March 20, 2025)
Fukuoka Airport's second runway officially began operation on the 20th, easing congestion at what has been called "Japan's busiest" airport. This is expected to facilitate smoother operations than ever before.
Enthusiastic Aviation Fans Gather at the Observation Deck
Aviation Fan: "I came here to witness this historic moment—seeing planes take off from the new runway." Q: What are you most looking forward to? "The first flight, of course! The first plane to take off from the second runway." RKB Reporter Takahiro Tajiri: "The first aircraft to use the second runway is about to take off."
At around 8:30 AM on the 20th, a commemorative charter flight took off for a scenic tour over Kumamoto and other areas. Many aviation fans gathered at the observation deck to witness this moment. Passenger after the flight: "It feels historic. I'm thrilled to be one of the first passengers to take off from the second runway."
Airlines Express High Hopes
Japan Airlines, which organized the commemorative charter flight, is also optimistic about the second runway. Shinichi Mine, Branch Manager, Japan Airlines Fukuoka Airport: "We've heard that the number of takeoffs and landings will increase with the opening of the second runway. We expect more inbound travelers and overall increased usage by our customers."
"Japan's Busiest" Fukuoka Airport – Second Runway Dedicated to International Departures
Fukuoka Airport, which previously operated with a single runway, has the highest number of takeoffs and landings among airports of its kind in Japan. To alleviate congestion, approximately ¥164 billion was invested in constructing the second runway.
Since the two parallel runways are close together, simultaneous takeoffs and landings are not possible. Therefore, the second runway will be used primarily for international departures.
Takeoff/Landing Capacity Increases from 38 to 40 Flights Per Hour
With the second runway in operation, the number of takeoffs and landings per hour has increased from 38 to 40, which is expected to help alleviate congestion.
Although a mere two additional flights per hour may seem like a limited improvement, experts emphasize the significance of the second runway.
The Benefits of the Second Runway
Former Chief Air Traffic Controller Hidekazu Tanaka: "Previously, with only one runway, any issue—such as an obstruction or an emergency—would completely halt operations, preventing both takeoffs and landings. Now, with a second runway, even if one becomes unusable due to unforeseen circumstances, operations can continue using the other, provided conditions allow. This is a major advantage."
In the past, incidents like bird strikes temporarily shut down Fukuoka Airport, as there was no backup runway. Moving forward, the second runway will enable smoother and more reliable airport operations.
The launch of the second runway is expected not only to increase flight capacity but also to significantly enhance the overall convenience of Fukuoka Airport.
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