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As I write this, it is 37°C (98.6°F) outside, a negligibly cooler 35°C (95°F) within my apartment, and humidity hovering at about 60%.
Welcome to Summer in Japan.
But in keeping with the spirit of “mind over mater,” let us think cool thoughts: cool places, cool people, or cool foods, like… sofuto kuriimu! Whether you call it “soft serve,” “softee,” “Mr. Whippy,” or what have you, I think you know what I’m talking about: heaven in a cone.
The introduction of sofuto to Japan dates back to an American Independence Day celebration held by the occupying forces on July 3, 1951. The event took place on the outer grounds of the Meiji Shrine, and gave the locals their first taste of the frozen treat. By September of that same year, the extremely popular treat could be found in many department stores.
Over my years of living in Japan, there are some encounters (with softo kuriimu) that I simply cannot forget. Here are a few of my favorites:
Natsumikan (Chinese citron or bitter summer orange); Hagi, Yamaguchi Prefecture.
Along with pottery and blowfish, Hagi also boasts of this beloved citrus. However, even a ripe natsumikan is fairly sour. Thankfully, that translates beautifully into “tart and refreshing” when in softo form.
Nashi (Asian pear); Sakaiminato, Tottori Prefecture.
Blessed with more than just natural beauty and genial population, Tottori is also famous for its high-quality Asian pears. Here you can find anything and everything containing nashi, including softo.
Kiichigo (raspberry); Nagano, Nagano Prefecture.
After visiting the famous Zenkoji Temple, you’ve probably earned yourself a little treat. If you’ve attended the morning service at dawn, you’ve definitely earned this and maybe even a cone of the apple variety as well.
Imo youkan (sweet potato paste); Sensoji Temple Nakamise, Tokyo.
Established in 1902, Funawa has been making imo youkan for over a century. As the times have changed, the product line has branched out to include softo as well! If you’re a fan of sweet potatoes, you’ve got to try this one.
Jizake (local sake); Takayama, Gifu Prefecture.
In addition to the biannual Takayama Festival, locally produced sake is one of the things this city is famous for. This sweet treat contains sake from Takayama’s Funasaka brewery. While it is does contain alcohol, its a very small amount, and I was assured by the staff that its completely safe for children. Now the whole family can enjoy this local specialty!
Ah, sweet memories! Alas, I have doubts as to how effective my “mind over matter” thinking has been, as I’m still feeling as hot as ever and now hungry, to boot. I think it’s time for some softo.