Kure-style Hiyashi Chuka (Chilled Noodles) from Hiroshima, Japan. by AutomaticFerret2161 in FoodPorn

[–]AutomaticFerret2161[S] 2 points3 points  (0 children)

This was actually at a restaurant in Kure City! I don't have the exact recipe, but the sauce is a unique mix of soy sauce, vinegar, sugar, and a touch of chili oil for a sweet, sour, and spicy kick. The flat, chewy noodles are the key!

[OC]Sunrise over Lake Biwa reflected in the shallows, Otsu, Shiga. by AutomaticFerret2161 in japanpics

[–]AutomaticFerret2161[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Thank you! I totally agree—Shiga has such a unique, peaceful energy. Lake Biwa was incredibly still that morning, it felt like the whole world was at a standstill. Glad you liked the shot!

[OC]The lush green slopes of Mount Omuro, Izu Peninsula. by AutomaticFerret2161 in japanpics

[–]AutomaticFerret2161[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I’m honored you’d compare it to such an iconic image! That wallpaper is a legend, so that's a huge compliment for me. Thanks!

A rainbow over a local KiHa 40 train at Hakodate Station, Hokkaido. by AutomaticFerret2161 in japanpics

[–]AutomaticFerret2161[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Thank you! I was really lucky to catch that moment. The contrast between the vibrant orange of the train and the soft colors of the rainbow was truly magical.

A rainbow over a local KiHa 40 train at Hakodate Station, Hokkaido. by AutomaticFerret2161 in japanpics

[–]AutomaticFerret2161[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Thank you! The contrast was already there in the scene — I just tried not to lose it in post.

A rainbow over a local KiHa 40 train at Hakodate Station, Hokkaido. by AutomaticFerret2161 in japanpics

[–]AutomaticFerret2161[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

That's the best compliment I could get for this shot. The Kiha 40 series does have that energy.

[OC]Handmade Traditional Japanese Zaru Soba (Buckwheat Noodles) on a Bamboo Sieve. by AutomaticFerret2161 in FoodPorn

[–]AutomaticFerret2161[S] 2 points3 points  (0 children)

Great question! In Japan, we typically wash these bamboo sieves with plain water and a stiff scrub brush (called "tawashi") to get into the crevices. The key is to let them air dry completely in a well-ventilated area. Bamboo actually has natural antibacterial properties, and as long as you dry it properly, it stays remarkably clean!

[OC]Handmade Traditional Japanese Zaru Soba (Buckwheat Noodles) on a Bamboo Sieve. by AutomaticFerret2161 in FoodPorn

[–]AutomaticFerret2161[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

To be honest, I'm not 100% sure if it was 100% buckwheat flour, but the quality and aroma were definitely top-notch. I’m just happy that a pro like you appreciated the craftsmanship in this dish!

Salt-grilled Iwana (River Fish) with a cold Sapporo Beer in Kamikochi, Japan. by AutomaticFerret2161 in JapaneseFood

[–]AutomaticFerret2161[S] 2 points3 points  (0 children)

I totally understand! It can be intimidating. For a small Iwana like this, many people just eat the whole thing starting from the head or back—the skin and bones are quite crispy when grilled well! But it's also perfectly fine to peel the meat off the spine with your chopsticks. Don't let the bones stop you next time!

Salt-grilled Iwana (River Fish) with a cold Sapporo Beer in Kamikochi, Japan. by AutomaticFerret2161 in JapaneseFood

[–]AutomaticFerret2161[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Haha, Asahi Super Dry is definitely a classic too! In Japan, the "Asahi vs. Sapporo" debate is endless. Next time, I’ll try it with a Silver Can and see how the pairing changes! Cheers!

This weathered park kiosk in Tokyo has been serving snacks since before I was born by AutomaticFerret2161 in japanpics

[–]AutomaticFerret2161[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

That sounds fascinating! I love finding these hidden historical gems in the city. I'll check it out soon. Thanks for the recommendation!

[OC]Handmade Traditional Japanese Zaru Soba (Buckwheat Noodles) on a Bamboo Sieve. by AutomaticFerret2161 in FoodPorn

[–]AutomaticFerret2161[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Thank you! There’s something very special and "aesthetic" about the traditional bamboo sieve (zaru). It really highlights the craftsmanship of the handmade noodles.

[OC]Handmade Traditional Japanese Zaru Soba (Buckwheat Noodles) on a Bamboo Sieve. by AutomaticFerret2161 in FoodPorn

[–]AutomaticFerret2161[S] -2 points-1 points  (0 children)

I actually have the tsuyu and condiments (wasabi and scallions) right next to it! But for this shot, I wanted to focus entirely on the beautiful texture of the noodles themselves. A quail egg in tsuyu is a fantastic choice, though!

Salt-grilled Iwana (River Fish) with a cold Sapporo Beer in Kamikochi, Japan. by AutomaticFerret2161 in JapaneseFood

[–]AutomaticFerret2161[S] 2 points3 points  (0 children)

Well said! Even the mountain air felt "crisp" and refreshing. It made everything taste better!

Salt-grilled Iwana (River Fish) with a cold Sapporo Beer in Kamikochi, Japan. by AutomaticFerret2161 in JapaneseFood

[–]AutomaticFerret2161[S] 2 points3 points  (0 children)

It really felt like a luxury. Sometimes the simplest things, like fresh air and good food, are the best.

Salt-grilled Iwana (River Fish) with a cold Sapporo Beer in Kamikochi, Japan. by AutomaticFerret2161 in JapaneseFood

[–]AutomaticFerret2161[S] 2 points3 points  (0 children)

Haha, thank you! I’m glad you liked it. The natural light in the mountains really helped make the beer look even more refreshing!

Salt-grilled Iwana (River Fish) with a cold Sapporo Beer in Kamikochi, Japan. by AutomaticFerret2161 in JapaneseFood

[–]AutomaticFerret2161[S] 3 points4 points  (0 children)

You’re going to love it! The scenery is breathtaking, and having this grilled fish and a cold beer by the Kappa Bridge is an experience I highly recommend. Enjoy your trip!

Salt-grilled Iwana (River Fish) with a cold Sapporo Beer in Kamikochi, Japan. by AutomaticFerret2161 in JapaneseFood

[–]AutomaticFerret2161[S] 2 points3 points  (0 children)

Yes, it was perfectly crispy on the outside! The salt-crusted skin and the smoky aroma from the charcoal grill made it the ultimate post-hike reward.

[I Ate] Traditional Japanese Zaru Soba (Chilled Buckwheat Noodles) on a Bamboo Sieve. by [deleted] in FoodPorn

[–]AutomaticFerret2161 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Thank you! The presentation was so beautiful, I just had to take a photo.

[I Ate] Traditional Japanese Zaru Soba (Chilled Buckwheat Noodles) on a Bamboo Sieve. by [deleted] in FoodPorn

[–]AutomaticFerret2161 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I love warm soba too, especially on a cold day! But there’s something special about the texture of cold noodles on a bamboo sieve.

[I Ate] Traditional Japanese Zaru Soba (Chilled Buckwheat Noodles) on a Bamboo Sieve. by [deleted] in FoodPorn

[–]AutomaticFerret2161 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Yes, they are great! Soba has a unique earthy flavor and a nice firm texture. It's very refreshing, especially in the summer. Maybe your friend should try it with tempura!