New Japanese restaurant: Nishiki Ramen

We were excited when we saw the opening of the restaurant Nishiki Ramen because we misread the name as “nishki,” which was a word we had coined growing up to indicate a so-so mood. If one of us said to the other, “I’m feeling nishki today,” the other would know exactly what she meant. When it came to trying Japanese food this month, we knew we would have to go to Nishiki despite the extra “I”. What a great decision that was! One of us chose to try the Miso Ramen and the other the Gyokai Tonkotsu. Both were really delicious. We ate till we were stuffed but still had more than enough to take home for the next day’s lunch. We’ll definitely be back…the next time we’re feeling nishki.

 New Japanese movie: Shoplifters

Barbara: This Japanese movie was about a group of close-knit people who survive in great part due to shoplifting. The relationship of the people to each other was not at first made clear, but during the course of the film you come to know how they connect. When they take in a neglected young girl and the group grows attached to her, they “confront the true meaning of love, belonging, and what makes a family.” 

This film was a great example of how American and International films are different from each other. Interestingly, as I was watching the movie, I wasn’t sure if I was enjoying it or not, but I was not inclined to turn it off because it held my interest. I wanted to see how it all worked out and won’t say my thoughts on the ending because it would give too much away. So, to sum up, if you are a fan of foreign films, I would probably suggest  you give it a try. I need to talk about it with somebody!

LEARNING CENTER

Why are so many adults adopted in Japan?

Surprising to us we found out that in Japan most people who are adopted are adults, particularly men in their 20s and 30s. This trend is thought to be set by childless couples picking successors to their family businesses. Also, Japan has a large inheritance tax that allows deductions based on the number of children inheriting. Hmm..we wonder how old the parents are when they adopt those 20 and 30 year olds. Could make for some interesting marriage dynamics.