BUSHI-MARU is the only establishment in the world that offers a unique experience centered around "freshly shaved bonito flakes." Located in the basement of the iconic Kinokuniya Bookstore in Shinjuku, this innovative brand redefines the role of katsuobushi in Japanese cuisine, elevating it from a mere seasoning to the main attraction on your plate.
The highlight of the BUSHI-MARU experience is the 0.01mm thin slices of freshly shaved katsuobushi, prepared right after an order is placed. This meticulous attention to detail ensures that the aroma of the bonito is at its peak when served, allowing guests to fully appreciate its rich, umami flavor. BUSHI-MARU pairs these exquisite flakes with a selection of seasonal ingredients and side dishes sourced from across Japan, creating simple yet elegant dishes that amplify the essence of the ingredients.
The space is thoughtfully designed to provide a serene atmosphere. Nestled within Kinokuniya Bookstore, the ambiance allows visitors to savor katsuobushi as they enjoy an immersive dining experience, exploring Japanese culture through taste rather than just consuming a meal. Each detail in the design – from the sounds of the bonito being shaved to the visual presentation of the dishes – contributes to a sensory journey that offers a quiet, upscale alternative to traditional dining.
Recently featured on Fuji TV's "Mezamashi Television Imadoki," BUSHI-MARU has garnered attention for its rare concept that focuses on the remarkable aroma and freshness of its katsuobushi, said to have a "10-minute shelf life" once shaved. This segment highlighted how BUSHI-MARU stands out as an exceptional food experience emerging from Japan.
The concept behind BUSHI-MARU stems from a desire to preserve and celebrate katsuobushi, not just as a mere ingredient but as a cultural touchstone. While traditional katsuobushi has often been consumed in powdered or extract forms, BUSHI-MARU takes the opposite approach by focusing on the experience of freshly shaving the bonito. Their philosophy revolves around the belief that culture should not be archived but lived and experienced actively. This mission aims to ensure katsuobushi is carried into the future as a sensory experience rather than mere knowledge.
Social media buzz surrounds BUSHI-MARU, with significant engagement on platforms like Instagram and TikTok, where visitors share their experiences of the incredible aroma of the freshly shaved bonito and the beautiful presentations of the dishes. Comments abound regarding the combination of katsuobushi with meticulously sourced side dishes, resulting in stunningly beautiful and delicious experiences that exceed expectations. An ethos of “quiet yet high-quality, but still delicious” resonates as a new Japanese cultural hotspot that’s capturing attention.
Looking ahead, BUSHI-MARU plans to introduce seasonal experiences featuring rare ingredients, programs aimed at tourists wishing to explore Japanese culture, and collaborations with artisans and producers. Through these endeavors, the brand hopes to continue to expand the katsuobushi experience both domestically and internationally.
For those curious to explore this culinary adventure, BUSHI-MARU is located at:
- - Name: BUSHI-MARU
- - Address: Kinokuniya Building, B1F, 3-17-7 Shinjuku, Shinjuku City, Tokyo
- - Hours: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM (Last Order: 9:30 PM)
Discover more through their official website and social media to stay updated on the latest offerings: