TOKYO!
As we waited for our plane to Minneapolis, I looked over to find Sasha reading… what? Do kids even read anymore? I looked around and saw one adult was the only other person with a book in hand. Of course, I had to ask what had her so enthralled… she’s reading her fourth book about Greek Mythology (which she pronounces Greek Mytheology). I guess she picked up a book in the library and was instantly intrigued… This book is about 300 pages, should hold her for the 12 hour flight from MSP to Haneda!
Considering our flight left Houston at 6:15am, it’s not surprising that once the initial excitement wore off, she was fast asleep… already looks like a seasoned traveler! This is the fourth or fifth time she’s made this trip and she’s only eight!
Flying into Minneapolis, on final approach, Sasha noticed a heart shaped lake. Had to take a quick pic! Sometimes we see some special sights from the sky. Such a different perspective! Much of the time we see cloud formations, which is fun. This time, there were so many lakes visible from above :-)
So… I mentioned my health on the cover page. Due to an ongoing condition, I am forced to change my diet. I’ve always considered myself an “eat anything and everything” eater but those days are over. My guess was, I’d be challenged to find anything in the airport to fit the bill but I was wrong. Ordering off of the ipad screen, this “California Bowl” was the perfect fit. I gobbled it up!
Twelve long hours after stepping on our flight in Minneapolis, we got off the plane in Haneda. Passport control was as efficient as I’ve ever seen… no line! And customs was a breeze. We were quickly “free” in Japan. Miho’s Mother and brother were waiting for us. Sasha was pushing a cart with all of her suitcases… as soon as she saw them, she ran from the cart (leaving it in the middle of the walkway) to jump into their arms. I would have take a photo but I was busy retrieving the left luggage! Our first real view of Tokyo was crossing the bridge as we headed to our hotel. This was the best I could do with my cell phone!
After a short nap, we jumped on the train and headed to dinner. The weather fantastic, the streets almost empty. We took this walkway under the train station. We passed shops with delicious looking packaged desserts. Like many other cities outside the US, bikes are a common mode of transportation.
We stopped outside the family restaurant to take a quick photo. We tried to get Sasha’s Grandma to join our photo but she giggled and ran back inside.
This is the sign outside the restaurant… after the meal we enjoyed last night, I wholeheartedly recommend this fabulous dining experience! Owned and run by Sasha’s Grandma and Uncle, it is a favorite of Sumo wrestlers. Her Grandfather was once a Sumo wrestler himself, and then a trainer. He also made the beautiful championship belts. Let’s step inside Chanko Sagahikari…
Each place setting had a small bowl with the starter. We had a pickled carrot, Japanese potato, chicken and another vegetable
On the wall above our table was the dress apron worn by Sasha’s Grandfather. The upper two levels of Sumo wrestlers are required to wear the heavily embroidered apron when entering the ring ceremony. It was interesting to learn more about the Sumo culture/community. I never realized how strict and regimented the sport is. Sumo's must dress formally when in public which makes them easy to spot! It is very rich in tradition and culture.
This steak sashimi is a delicacy... it was SO tender. The dipping sauce was fantastic. I have to admit, though I eat fish sashimi style, I wasn't quite sure about beef. It was amazing!
Immediately after a seafood salad arrived. Anne doesn’t eat seafood so Sasha’s Uncle put the clam, shrimp, crab mixture in a separate bowl. The lettuce fresh and crispy, tomato and mozzarella topped with the seafood mixture and a soy dressing… healthy and fantastic!
Zoe had her first experience with chopsticks. Sasha being a veteran, gave her a few pointers. Zoe ate with them for awhile but decided it was much easier with a fork!
Especially made for me… this sashimi plate made me day! The hamachi was so fresh, it melted in my mouth… it also included ahi, shrimp, squid, and salmon. Wow! What a treat! I gobbled down every last bite!
We all enjoyed the giant bowl of edimame. I forgot to take a picture of the mozzarella won ton but it was amazing. By this time, we had eaten so much… and were so focused on the taste combinations, I forgot to take a pic of the roasted pork belly too! I felt like I was in heaven. All my favorite foods!!!
We were shocked to find out the “main course” was on it’s way out… Chanko Sagahikari is famous for their hot pot. Sumos still visit for a traditional Sumo meal. I didn’t think I could fit another sliver of food in my full stomach but this dish looked so good, I HAD to try it! Sasha’s Uncle came out of the kitchen to serve us.
This appetizing presentation tempted me despite my full belly! Look how much I served… the chicken balls were pounded and formed by the chef extraordinaire and the udon noodles hit the spot. Had I known all this was coming out, I definitely would have paced myself better!
I couldn’t believe when we were served yet another dish… we had to refuse dessert after this over the top feast!
Sasha’s Grandma came out and sat with us for a little bit. By this time, Sasha had gone into her room to change shoes but never came back… she fell into bed and was fast asleep! Jet lag...
Boy did we eat… and the table shows the aftermath of a fine meal! A feast meant for a king! PWe got in a little hot water for trying to help clean up! S Don't worry... this credit card was breached through Lowe's and a new card is being sent... sorry hackers! :-)
Above the door leading into the kitchen is a framed set of hand prints. Look at the size of the hands! The two Sumos (Takanohana and Wakanohana) autographed and presented this to Sasha's Grandfather.
In the photo on the left, Sasha's uncle poses with two Yokozuna's. Their ceremonial ropes are displayed in a shadow box at the restaurant, as well. These two were part of Sasha's Grandfather's stable. It's hard for me to understand if he made the ropes himself or if he taught the wrestlers and they make their own. The are said to weigh approximately sixty pounds! Very impressive works of art!
After eating and eating and EATING… we got a ride back to our hotel. Zoe was sound asleep after only a five minute drive. This definitely depicts how tired we ALL are! Off to bed…
