Hello everyone, this is Sushi Hatake! Today, I went to Kappabashi Dougu Street in search of tools for my sushi catering business. With the Sky Tree as a backdrop, this street lined with traditional Edo cooking tools is a treasure trove for sushi chefs.

The View of Kappabashi with the Sky Tree

Walking from Tawaramachi Station toward Kappabashi, I came across this beautiful view where the Sky Tree stands right at the end of the street. The harmony between the sky and the cityscape was so striking that I couldn’t help but stop and take a photo.

At the entrance to Kappabashi, there’s a big sign reading “Kappabashi” and “KAPPA-BASHI” — complete with an adorable kappa illustration. This area is close to Asakusa and draws many tourists.

For Prosperity! The Golden Kappa

Along the way, I found this golden kappa statue! Holding a fish and lifting a fishing rod, it’s a striking sight. Kappa have long been familiar in Japan as water deities, but this golden kappa seems to be enshrined as a symbol of prosperous business. The bright red and blue “Prosperity in Business” banners behind it also stand out.

Having transitioned from farmer to sushi chef, I, Sushi Hatake, am now taking on a new business challenge. Naturally, I clasped my hands together in front of this kappa and prayed for the success of my sushi catering venture (laughs).

Shocking Discovery! Tagame Cider

On the way from Tawaramachi to Kappabashi, I made another shocking discovery. A shop called “TAKE-NOKO” caught my eye with a sign that read, “Limited Edition Drink Featuring Tagame!”

Tagame (giant water bugs) — yes, you read that right — featured in a drink called “Tagame Cider.” The ad showed a drink containing syrup-pickled tagame, lemongrass (like water plants), and tapioca. The price? 860 yen.

Unfortunately, the shop was closed when I passed by, so I couldn’t try it — honestly, it seems like a pretty high hurdle (laughs). But next time I visit Kappabashi, if the shop is open, I just might gather my courage and give it a try. Would you be willing to drink it?

The Deep Connection Between Edomae Sushi and Kappabashi

Good tools are essential for making Edomae sushi: knives, cutting boards, rice tubs, vinegar containers… Kappabashi is truly a craftsman’s mecca where you can find all of these.

This time, I was specifically looking for a small sharkskin grater (for wasabi) to use during sushi catering and a cool black cutting board essential for making sushi in front of customers. At Kappabashi’s specialty stores, you can find a wide range of sizes and materials and take your time choosing.

Although I, Sushi Hatake, am still early in my training, I believe that encountering the right tools is an important part of the journey toward becoming a fully-fledged sushi chef.

For Sushi Catering in Tokyo, Leave It to Sushi Hatake

We offer sushi catering services mainly in the Tokyo area. Using the tools I carefully selected at Kappabashi, I bring authentic Edomae sushi right to you. Sushi Hatake can also accommodate international guests in English, so feel free to reach out!

We also offer sushi-making experiences. If you’d like to explore the art of sushi firsthand, please get in touch. Sushi Hatake will deliver delicious Edomae sushi and a joyful experience to you!