Jim Goes to Japan

Modern sushi pretty much originated here in Japan. The sushi we know and love was invented in Edo (Tokyo before it became Tokyo) as a form of fast-food. The fish were caught right out of the bay, skipped the fermentation process, and were sold road-side and in theaters.

If you ever get a chance to come to Tokyo or Japan, be prepared to have the best sushi of your life. The freshest you can get is right at Tsukigi market early in the morning when all the fishermen have returned with their catch. Tokyo is also packed with sushi restaurants across the city which serve their courses with fresh new fish every day. It is a very delightful experience.

However, be careful when eating sushi here. You may have tried it at home and had a good experience, but there are so many types of sushi here that will probably outnumber what you’ve experienced so far. Some of them may be so outlandish that your body isn’t ready to accept them as, “food.” Also, be wary not to eat sushi that is “too fresh.” Most countries require fish to at least be frozen before it is served in order to protect humans against a condition called Anisakis caused by small parasites in the fish. If you’re at a restaurant, just stick with what you know. If you’re at Tsukigi early one morning, make sure you know the fish was frozen first.

For those who are a little more daring, such as myself, if you are not careful you may find yourself hunched over a porcelain bowl. For most people that will be the end of it; the unlucky few may require further treatment. However, just being realistic and safe will likely net you a positive experience. Enjoy!