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Shochu 101: From Classic Sips to Modern Cocktails

What is Shochu? Shochu is a spirit that features a variety of traditional ingredients drawn from Japan’s long history, offering a wide range of appealing aromas and flavors. There are two main types of Shochu: authentic Honkaku Shochu (single-distilled) and the more neutral-tasting Korui Shochu (multiple-distilled). Honkaku Shochu is crafted from a diverse array of raw, flavorful ingredients. Its alcohol by volume (ABV) typically ranges from 20% to 30%, which is lower than that of many other spirits worldwide. However, the aromas produced by different ingredients and distillation methods give Honkaku Shochu a truly memorable character. Let’s explore some of…

YUZU – Japan’s Citrus Star Taking Over Global Cuisine

Yuzu is a small, highly aromatic citrus fruit native to East Asia, and it has been treasured in Japan for centuries. In modern times, it remains deeply rooted in Japan’s food culture and traditional customs. The fruit is roughly the size of a small grapefruit, with a rough, bumpy skin. As it ripens, its skin turns a vibrant yellow, releasing a powerful fragrance that can fill an entire room with just a single piece. The flavor of yuzu is uniquely complex, blending the sharp acidity of lemon, the gentle sweetness of mandarin orange, and a slight bitterness reminiscent of grapefruit.…

INTERVIEW View More

[Japanese Interviews: Life in LA] Masahiro Kitano: From Cancer Researcher to Brewery Founder

“It all started with coming here to chase my dream of forming a band with Americans, touring the world, and becoming a rock star.” Atsushi Nakagawa founded AMAZAKE CO. in Los Angeles in April 2019. He is the creator of the “Amazake Latte,” which has gained popularity at Farmers Markets in Torrance and Hollywood. How did his dream evolve? We took a closer look at his life.

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Trip 2 JAPAN | Beyond Sightseeing: Exploring Japan Through Food, Culure, and Unique Experiences

With the continued trend of a weak yen, the number of visitors to Japan has been steadily increasing. In 2024, the number of inbound tourists reached 36.86 million, setting a new all-time annual record. Notably, the United States ranked 4th in the number of visitors by country. Japan’s rich cultural heritage, exquisite cuisine, and breathtaking seasonal landscapes continue to captivate travelers from around the world. At the same time, travel styles are becoming increasingly diverse. In the past, many tourists focused on experiencing Japan’s history by visiting famous temples and strolling through old townscapes. However, today’s travelers have a wider…

FOOD View More