Solo Traveler from the South
“It’s my first time traveling to Japan. Can you accompany me?”
Rose, from Texas, USA, was on a top secret mission in Japan.
Without any knowledge of the Japanese language (she is now taking lessons btw) and no Japan mobile number, I already knew the mission won’t be accomplished without a side-kick.
I couldn’t let her do this alone.
We got on with business the next day, but first, we spent the day together in Asakusa. After all, she’s on vacation!
“Getting to know you”
This is an ice breaker I do with my guests. In order for me to understand them on a deeper level, I have the palm reader do a little digging for me. Be aware, there might be some secrets exposed. It’s ok, your secret is safe with me!
We did 3 rounds of tarot cards and one round of palm reading. It's one question per tarot reading and yes, you may ask about other people other than yourself.
Wagyu Yakiniku
This Texan loves her meat, but have you had it this way before?
This was Rose’s first time trying Yakiniku. She’s had Kobe beef before, but probably not where you grill it yourself.
Rose did a great job walking or working up a sweat that day
Tips before you come to Japan:
1) Condition, stretch and stay active so you can walk a lot
2) Be sure to hydrate
3) Take breaks!
Sensoji Temple in Asakusa
Purifying our toxic thoughts and illnesses
Behind is the famous 5-tier pagoda
Rose bought a good luck charm, omamori, #25 for Business Success. This is to be put in the wallet at all times.
Afternoon Snacks
Cashew nuts crackers (this is so good! one of my favs)
Taiyaki with red bean. It came out hot!
Freshly squeezed OJ with energy drink
“As of today, I’m in love with matcha”
Matcha beer
Frozen red bean + matcha mochi
Rose loved sweets so I surprised her with something matcha, while she cooled down and took a break at the cafe.
Rose made small talk with a very nice lady who happen to be standing near the kimono shop. She snuck us in through the back door to see her husband perform Jazz Music. What a treat!
Kappabashi “Kitchen Town”
“Cyber Bunny, remember that video you posted of the three knife-set? I want the same one…”
We were on a mission to find her the perfect Japanese chef knife. We checked out 3 shops.
Right Photo: This is the iconic Chef’s hat figure that marks the start of Kappabashi.
I asked the staff to bring out a Petty, Nakiri, Gyuto, which I showed in my video. However, it's hard to find a "set" of the same brand.
Rose made her decision at Kappabashi Maeda. At 29,800 yen ($208 usd) tax free, Rose selected this beautiful carbon steel made in Japan Santoku knife, which is great for the everyday chef and it's not as intimidating as the Gyuto knife.
“Where can I find a set of ceramic dishes?”
She also snagged some beautiful ceramic bowls.
This is where we found the coffee filter she has been looking for.
They do have an online shop with overseas delivery!
Chopstick stands
Sake cups and sauce dishes
Google Map: Wa no Utsuwa Dengama | 和の器 田窯
On the second day after completing our top secret mission, we spent our celebration dinner in Ginza eating her favorite, Wagyu Yakiniku.
The food, service, atmosphere was amazing!
View of luxury shopping mall, GINZA SIX
She said she wanted to try Kobe beef lol
Underneath the restaurant, a visit to the drug store (Matsumoto Kiyoshi) was also on the bucket list.
She was on the hunt skincare and hot patch eye masks, "I'll take 12 boxes!!" LOL
