Mie Food Experiences(8)

We had an amazing time! We brought 12 Americans that spoke zero Japanese and were hoping for a truly cultural experience and this delivered! Out of everything we did in almost 3 weeks across Japan, this was everyone’s favorite. The family was so welcoming and friendly. And the food was incredible, some of the best we had in Japan. But just having the experience to break bread, tell stories and jokes with people from difficult cultures is really incredible and not something people take the time to do. It’s truly a beautiful experience. And the story behind why they began hosting is very touching. I am really doing a poor job of articulating how wonderful the experience was. Just know if you’re on the fence, do it, and you won’t be disappointed. To the family, thank you again and you’re always welcome to join us in Wisconsin!

The hosts were great! There are several buildings to stay in. We were the only group for our one night stay, but in theory I believe separate parties would each use a different building. We made takoyaki, and the hosts made tempura and katsu along with the star Matsusaka beef (bbq’ed and in sukiyaki), plus small side dishes. Way more food than we could possibly consume. Breakfast included homemade rice flour bread, and they sent us off with bentos as well. In fact, because our next stop was a 45 minute drive away (Ise), they drove us to our hotel to drop off our luggage and then dropped us off at Ise Jingu to save us the train ride. I wouldn’t get too excited over the vegetable garden; I don’t think we even ate the vegetables we picked, and if you’ve ever kept a small garden yourself it’s essentially the same experience.

Truly amazing experience. I loved the Japanese hospitality of my hosts and their thoughtfulness. Although they can’t really speak English, they make an attempt to use translation app on their mobile phone. Food was home cooked and home made. Totally delicious.

The host family were super friendly. Even if you don’t know or know little japanese, they make huge efforts (using translation apps) to communicate with you. During this stay, i learnt about the true origins of Matsusaka beef (actually from Taiki!) and got to taste a huge sukiyaki feast cooked with vege gathered from their local farm and water from a nearby mountain source. The house is also clean and comfortable with toilet, bedding, kitchen and amenities. I am so touched by their hospitality (they even prepared onigiri for me the next morning for my next journey), i will return again with family!! Thank you so much, i wont forget this experience..

Very fun countryside tour, the hosts are amazing and so so so welcoming. It felt like I was coming home.