Japan has a proverb: "Send the beloved child on a journey." It means that if you truly care for someone, you should let them experience the world's challenges rather than overprotecting them.
I decided to apply this to my chopsticks. I now carry them in my bag to photograph them alongside various dishes whenever I dine out. I want you to enjoy the various dishes of Japanese restaurants together with my chopsticks.
These premium chopsticks measure exactly 21cm, serving as a perfect benchmark for size.
#3 TRAVELING CHOPSTICKS: NAGASAKI FLAVORS IN SANGENJAYA
Sangenjaya, just two stops from Shibuya, is a popular spot for young people. It’s a vibrant district where post-war narrow alleys remain, filled with lively bars and theaters that come alive at night.
The iconic chopstick bag of Rairairai.
A short walk toward Shimokitazawa brings you to Rairairai, a small restaurant serving authentic Nagasaki Champon and Sara-udon.
During the Edo period, while Japan was isolated, Nagasaki remained a port for foreign trade. This unique history allowed new ingredients and cultures—like sugar—to enter Japan earlier than anywhere else.
Sara-udon: Crispy fried noodles with a thick, savory glaze.
Sara-udon features ultra-thin noodles deep-fried until crispy, topped with a thick, starchy glaze of sprouts, cabbage, shrimp, pork, and octopus. Initially, the noodles are delightfully crunchy, but as you eat, they soften and absorb the flavors, creating a completely different texture.
Still crispy inside!
One of the best parts is customizing the flavor. You can add "Worcestershire sauce" for a spicy aroma or "vinegar" for a refreshing finish. But wait—be careful not to confuse the containers!
From left: Rayu (chili oil), Pepper, Soy Sauce, Vinegar, and Sauce.
Soy sauce and Worcestershire sauce look very similar. To make sure you get the right one, look for the bottle with the darker, richer color.
This one is the sauce! It's perfect for Sara-udon.
Also, don't forget the hot mustard (Karashi). Stirring it in adds a sharp, spicy kick that perfectly complements the sweet glaze.
A little bit of Karashi goes a long way!
While the staff might not speak much English, the delicious taste of Nagasaki is universal. If you visit Sangenjaya, definitely stop by and find your favorite way to enjoy these noodles!