5 Things We Have Learned This Week… #2
We are playing catch up a little on this series so you are getting two entries this week! As we have continued our journey through Japan, this week has been a journey through both the past and present, where we’ve discovered so much about Japan’s rich history, food, and unique cultural practices. There’s been a bit of everything, from the origins of beer in Hokkaido to immersing ourselves in the world of onsen etiquette, experiencing the art of Shogi, and dining on a traditional Kaiseki meal.
Here’s a glimpse into the 5 things we’ve learned this week:
1. The History of Beer and How It Shaped Hokkaido & Modern Japan
When you think of Japanese beer, Asahi might be the first name that comes to mind, and it’s easy to see why. But Asahi wasn’t Japan’s first brewery. That title goes to Sapporo Beer, which traces its origins back to 1876 when the Sapporo Brewery was founded by German-trained brewer Seibei Nakagawa. This wasn’t just about brewing beer it was part of Japan’s larger push toward modernisation during the Meiji era. Hokkaido, with its cool climate and fertile land, proved to be the perfect place for barley farming, a key ingredient in brewing. The brewery soon grew to become a symbol of Japan’s industrial progress, contributing to both the nation’s economy and its evolving cultural identity.
But Sapporo’s story doesn’t end there. In the early 20th century, the Sapporo Brewery merged with the Japan Brewery Company, which would later become Asahi. This merger created a brewing powerhouse, combining the resources and expertise of both companies. It wasn’t until after World War II that Sapporo and Asahi separated again, but the merger had a lasting impact on both. It played a key role in helping Sapporo establish itself as one of Japan’s largest and most iconic beer brands, influencing markets both domestically and internationally.
Today, Sapporo Beer stands as one of the most recognisable names in the industry, proudly carrying the legacy of its historic roots while continuing to innovate for the future. If you ever find yourself in Sapporo, don’t miss the Sapporo Beer Museum. It’s the perfect place to dive deeper into the brand’s fascinating history and sample exclusive beer flights that are only available at the museum. Kanpai!
2. Coffee Culture in Japan – A Date Tradition, But with a Price
We didn’t really expect Japan to have a coffee scene, it’s more a tea country after all but we’re really starting to fall for Japan’s coffee culture, and it’s been a fun shift from what we’re used to. Here, coffee is an experience rather than just a caffeine fix and serious attention is paid to every cup, with cafes offering different brewing methods that make each sip feel like a tiny masterpiece. What’s interesting, though, is the price. While it’s cheaper than what we were paying back in London, coffee in Japan can still be surprisingly pricey, in comparison to other items, especially if you’re indulging in something special or relaxing in one of those chic cafes that seem to have their own vibe.
That’s why we’ve made it a treat, an excuse to spoil ourselves every few days. It’s become a kind of ritual this past week, really. We’ve started having coffee dates, just the two of us, tucked away in a cozy spot. It’s a quiet moment to chat and reflect, surrounded by the calming atmosphere of the café. It’s not just about the coffee anymore, it’s about taking a break from the hustle and enjoying a little thing that we both already love, just that little bit more.
3. Onsen Etiquette – How to Soak Like a Local
Japan’s onsen culture is one of its most beloved traditions, and this week, we took the plunge (literally) into the world of hot springs. We’ll talk more about our experience in next week’s blog post about our travels from Hokkaido to Nikko but for now let’s talk about the etiquette. Before you relax in those healing waters, there are some important etiquette rules to keep in mind. First, they are mostly gender segregated but not always. Second, there is absolutely no photos allowed, understandable given everyone is naked! Third, cleanliness is key! You must thoroughly wash and rinse your body before entering the communal baths, and this is done sitting on small stools with handheld showerheads. It’s a meditative ritual that helps you feel refreshed and ensures the baths stay clean for everyone. Also, keep your little towels out of the water, they’re for drying off, not for dipping. Above all, the golden rule is respect: keeping noise levels down and maintaining a serene atmosphere is part of the onsen experience.
We were fortunate enough to experience a mixture of public and private onsens this week so we were able to capture a few photos of what it is like behind the scenes from the private onsen.
4. Shogi – The Art of Japanese Chess & Tendo’s Legacy
This week, we also had the chance to learn about Shogi, a traditional Japanese board game often compared to chess but with its own unique rules and strategies. Shogi is deeply ingrained in Japanese culture and has been played for centuries. What makes it fascinating is the concept of “drops” – capturing an opponent’s piece and then using it as your own. This adds a layer of strategy and complexity that is quite different from Western chess.
What makes Shogi even more special is its connection to Tendo, a small city in Yamagata Prefecture where our Ryokan was located. Known as the “Shogi Capital of Japan,” Tendo has a long-standing tradition of Shogi piece manufacturing. The city is renowned for its craftsmanship, and Shogi enthusiasts from around Japan (and beyond) often visit Tendo to purchase finely carved pieces, often made from locally sourced wood. We learned that the artistry of Tendo’s Shogi pieces is part of a cultural heritage that has been passed down through generations, making it a hub for the game’s history. Watching a game unfold is like observing a battle of wits and patience, as players think several moves ahead, anticipating every possibility. We tried our hand at a few matches, and while we still have a lot to learn, it’s a game that can keep you thinking for hours. Shogi is not just about the game itself, but also about understanding the deep respect for mental agility and strategic thinking in Japanese culture.
5. Kaiseki in Yamagata – A Feast of Local Flavors
To end our week on a high note, we enjoyed a traditional Kaiseki dinner in Yamagata, a region renowned for its rich culinary heritage. Kaiseki is a multi-course meal, and this experience was all about celebrating the fresh, seasonal ingredients that Yamagata is famous for. We were treated to a symphony of flavours: from perfectly grilled Yamagata beef, known for its marbled tenderness, to fresh, locally sourced vegetables that captured the essence of the region’s fertile soil. The meal was presented with artistry and precision, with each dish more beautiful than the last. What made it even more special was the emphasis on local produce and the way each dish reflected the landscape of Yamagata – the mountains, rivers, and fields that surround this scenic region. Kaiseki in Yamagata is not just about food; it’s a celebration of the land and the seasons.
It’s been a week full of discovery, from the deep roots of beer in Hokkaido’s past to the complex, delicate flavours of Kaiseki. Whether it’s learning the finer points of onsen etiquette or exploring the strategic world of Shogi, we’ve truly experienced the heart of Japanese culture in a way we’ll never forget.
Have you experienced any of these during your time in Japan? Let us know in the comments what surprised or inspired you the most!
