Pop Japan

1. Fugu

"The authentic dish requires not only authentic ingredients but also authentic skills." - A fugu specialist for 45 years

Fugu is the Japanese word for pufferfish, a fish so poisonous, it could be fatal when it has been prepared incorrectly. The fugu specialist for 45 years shows the proper way of preparing the deadly fish.

2. Food Samples

"This (plastic food models) is part of our tradition and culture. It is mainstream in Japan." - Sample Village Iwasaki factory worker for 35 years

Lots of Japanese restaurants use plastic food models to entice customers. In the province of Gujo, is where the factory responsible for more than half of these plastic food models can be found. The handmade models are intricately done for a realistic appearance.

3. Instant Noodles

"Momofuku Ando, inventor of instant noodles, didn't understand why people would make bread instead of noodles, something that is already part of their culture."

Instant ramen was invented after the World War II as an answer to the famine that broke out. Nissin introduced packaged ramen in the 1950 and cup noodles in 1978. It is now a culture icon in Japan.

4. Sake

"Sake is rooted in our daily life in Japanese culture The aspects of our heritage are reflected in it." - Genuemon Sudo, 55th generation of inheritor of the Sudo sake brewery

The Sudo sake brewery, possibly the oldest in the world, has been well-kept for 55 generations of the Sudo family.

5. Mochi

"Mochi is part of traditional Japanese culture and it is always a part of any celebration." - Mitsuo Nakatani, owner of Nakatanidou for 23 years

Mochi is made from a sticky rice called mochigome. A fresh and delicious mochi should be soft, smooth and chewy. Mochi can be done in many different ways but Nakatani chooses to do the traditional way.

Tags: food, fugu, plastic food model, Gujo, Nissin, instant noodles, sake, Sudo sake brewery, mochi