Handmade Senbei Experience

[Kitakata's Hidden Soul Food] 'Tamari Senbei' nurtured by famous water and traditional breweries, and an inspiring hand-grilling experience

While often overshadowed by ramen and sake, Kitakata has a unique culture of 'Tamari Senbei' that has been cherished locally for a long time. The clear underground water from the foot of Mount Iide nurtures exquisite rice, and the 'kura' (brewery) maintains a consistent temperature and humidity to support the brewing of high-quality soy sauce (tamari). This unique land has miraculously come together to cultivate a delicious culture of rice crackers.

■ Established in 1900, facing the shichirin and charcoal fire

The 'Yamanaka Senbei Honpo' we will visit on this tour has been hand-grilling each cracker with care over a brick kiln's charcoal fire for over 120 years.

• Maniacal experience: The charm here is the 'hand-grilling experience' using traditional shichirin.
• Essence of handwork: The dough, only about 1mm thick, is sandwiched between a special grilling stick and slowly held over the charcoal fire.

■ Like magic! The dough expands 'as if dancing' in excitement

The moment when the heated dough changes to a whitish color and eventually puffs up 'as if dancing' over the charcoal fire is so fascinating that even adults can't help but exclaim in delight.

• Dynamic dough: The rhythmic flipping to avoid burning becomes a simple yet profound experience.
• Devour the freshly made: Enjoy the hot, freshly grilled senbei on the spot. With its savory aroma, the sweetness of the rice spreads throughout your mouth; be sure to savor this inspiring handwork.