#Japan #Tokyo #Asakusa #Kawamuraya #Pickles

A Unique Culinary Experience Awaits at Kawamuraya

Kawamuraya, with its rich history of 230 years, is set to launch an exciting winter menu at their tea house "Yaenoka" located on the second floor in Asakusa. Starting December 4, 2025, guests will have the opportunity to indulge in two thematic courses: the 'Pickles and Grilled Rice Balls Set' and the 'Nukazuke Set'. This initiative aims to celebrate Japan's fermentation culture and deepen the appreciation of traditional dishes.

"Yaenoka" is designed to evoke the ambiance of an Edo period tea house, creating a serene environment where visitors can not only taste but also experience the intricacies of fermented cuisine through their senses. The winter menu allows guests to engage practically by making their own grilled rice balls over a small charcoal grill provided at each table.

Embrace the Art of Grilling

At the heart of the 'Pickles and Grilled Rice Balls Set' is Kawamuraya's signature 'Daifukujin-zuke' sauce, which is skillfully brushed over the grilled rice balls just before serving. This sauce is crafted with a secret fermentation technique that takes 2.5 years to perfect, enhancing the umami flavor and aroma as the rice balls are grilled. The crackling sounds and warm scent of charcoal contribute to a rich, multi-sensory winter experience that embodies the essence of Asakusa.

Celebrate the Essence of Fermentation

On the other hand, the 'Nukazuke Set' puts the spotlight on traditional pickles made with rice bran, a unique challenge aimed at redefining how these fermented delights are served. The set features eight varieties of seasonal vegetables, beautifully arranged to showcase their natural flavors. The aromas of fermentation blend delightfully with the natural sweetness and umami of the ingredients, bringing forth a profound appreciation for the Japanese staple of rice and its fermentation legacy.

Every dish is served with a seasonal miso soup, adding warmth and a comforting sense of familiarity, allowing diners to relish the subtle hints of saltiness, acidity, and the fragrant notes of the broth.

Menu Highlights (all prices inclusive of tax)

• - Pickles and Grilled Rice Balls Set: 1,500 yen
• - Pickles and Daily Stewed Dishes Set: 1,400 yen
• - Pickles and Pickled Plums Set: 1,200 yen
• - Nukazuke Set: 1,200 yen

Each course is accompanied by a miso soup made from seasonal vegetables. The 'Pickles and Grilled Rice Balls Set', 'Pickles and Daily Stewed Dishes Set', and 'Pickles and Pickled Plums Set' also include a platter featuring eight varieties of Kawamuraya's special pickles, while the 'Nukazuke Set' includes eight varieties of rice bran pickles.

A Warm Invitation from Kawamuraya's CEO

Shizuka Someya, the representative director of Kawamuraya, expresses, "Pickles are the culmination of the fermentation wisdom passed down from the Edo period. At Yaenoka, we hope our guests can experience these delightful flavors and the warmth of fermentation this winter in Asakusa through every scent, sound, and taste."

Store Information

Edo Tea House Yaenoka
Address: 1-22-8 Asakusa, Taito, Tokyo, 2F Kawamuraya Building
Phone: 03-5806-0266
Hours: Thursday to Sunday, 11:30 AM - 5:00 PM (Last Order 4:30 PM)
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About Kawamuraya

Founded during the Kansei era, Kawamuraya has been preserving Japan's fermentation roots for 230 years. They blend tradition with innovation, exploring natural fermentation to enhance their offerings like Nukazuke, Kasuzuke, and Daifukujin-zuke, paving the way for modern dining experiences. The launch of 'Edo Tea House Yaenoka' on the second floor of their Asakusa shop adds a new dimension to the fermentation experience that the area is rapidly becoming known for.