Takenoko trail 竹の子

Finding myself in a situation where I take a minute to notice ‘the here and now’ has become an all too common theme in my life since moving to Japan. Of course, everyday is a busy one and each rolls into the next whilst trying to navigate the harmonious balance between work and family life but I still find myself noticing more often where I’ve ended up, and curiously more so , the more familiar my surroundings have become.   

The oddities were the things I noticed most when I first arrived, self flushing electric toilets, shared bathing, sashimi and fermented beans for breakfast to name a few and then there was the rigid order to daily Japanese life which was something to become accustomed to. ( you only need to take a look at a Japanese car park to see there is an unwritten rule for everyone to park their car facing out of their parking spot) something which may seem trivial but a good example of the way the culture expects conformity and sensibility.

Now I’m ( in the most part ) accustomed to daily Japanese life I’ve begun to often notice the sheer beauty of the place I for the time being call home.

One recent “here and now” moment happened sitting outside on a rainy Sunday lunch eating yaki soba ( cooked on a DIY skillet) with Saes aunt and family huddled under a piece of tarpaulin.

We had returned from what has now become our annual Takenoko harvesting. The season usually runs through the middle of April when the now shoots appear from the earth. Just as the days begin to get a little warmer and longer, April appears to be a month in Japan where any one day can roll all four seasons into one. This was one of those days, the morning bringing clear skies and a beautiful sunrise but before our house had fully arisen it had quickly turned, and the although the air contained its warmth. the drizzle set in which remained for the duration of our day’s events.

Although this might not sound like I’ve described a picture postcard setting, as I glanced  up to Sae and looked past her hat with the slogan “Life is sweet” ( an atypical Japanese feel good quote so often found on clothing here ) I found myself feeling extraordinarily lucky to have found myself here. The scenery behind was not of an extraordinary nature but just a beautiful view of the natural Japanese countryside sitting behind a few derelict houses covered in the mist and drizzle. It was a great day to spend with family, young and old, and another memory which will be fondly cherished of my time here learning and loving in Japan.

Takenoko tosani

1 boiled bamboo shoot

Katsuobushi

2 Tbsp sake
2 Tbsp mirin
1 Tbsp sugar
2 Tbsp soy sauce

375ml water/ dashi

Combine all ingredients except katsuobushi and bamboo and bring to the boil.

Add bamboo and lid simmer until the liquid had reduced by half. Check for seasoning/ adjust if necessary. Turn off heat and add katsuobushi and mix through. Can cool and eat cold or warmed and eaten hot.