Bontan Ame is flavored with a fruit grown in southern regions of Japan that is similar to a tangerine (Bontan).  Although the candy's outer wrapping looks and feels like plastic, it is actually edible (made of rice paper). 

Geta, traditional wooden Japanese sandals or clogs, are said to be most commonly worn in rain or snow to keep the feet dry, due to their extra height. 
Master chef Tanigawa always wears them about Kichisen's kitchen- so awesome. 

Wasabi, an essential ingredient in Japanese cuisine, is a root that has an extremely strong flavor close to that of hot mustard.  It is traditionally grated upon an oroshigane (grater) covered with dried sharkskin.

Sakuhachi, traditional Japanese flutes, are used as a tool for Zen Buddhist mediation as well as for playing traditional Japanese folk music.  It has also been used for playing other types of music such as classical and jazz.  Yesterday, my friend began teaching me the proper way to play over tea and warabi mochi.

Concerning Japanese gifts, the item being given is not important.  The wrapping is what is considered to be the most significant part.  The care put into wrapping the package is especially symbolic and carries a lot of expression of your feelings towards the person to whom you are giving the gift.

At Kichisen, presentation is just as important as the taste, quality/freshness, and texture of an item.  Much skill and thought is put into how it will be prepared, plated, and served.  Even the dish it will be served upon is specifically chosen. 

As I mentioned in a recent post, I am currently apprenticed at a restaurant in Kyoto.  While there I am studying the art of kaiseki ryori, the cuisine that originated from the tea ceremony.   Things from nature are often used to accentuate the fresh seasonality of the dish being served.  I have already learned a great deal as well as been inspired by the artistic and natural presentation.

Last week, I went to a big event held in Osaka- the Utage Gourmet Festival.  It follows an Olympic-style calendar in that it only occurs once every four years.  What a privilege to be in Japan in the year it was to be held!  At the festival, artists from Okinawa played some traditional numbers for all to enjoy.  I attached a video for your viewing pleasure- it first focuses on a man accompanying the group with an interesting instrument played by hand. 

Everything is "kawaii"('cute') here- even the buses.