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In a nation made up of a great many islands, one dominant physical feature of Japan is its extensive coastline. While there is no lack of places that consider themselves as possessing the most attractive coastline, one stretch that many would regard as the country's most picturesque is found on the Sanriku Coast, towards the northern end of Honshu. Located in Iwate Prefecture, this coast of sometimes 200-meter-high cliffs and towering rock formations is often called the "Alps of the Sea."
In addition to offering a feast for the eyes, this coast provides the materials for a feast of the culinary sort in the form of excellent seafood. And here, sushi makes for a fine, natural choice. The sushi served in Iwate Prefecture includes familiar varieties, such as the roe from the salmon that frequent the rivers of this prefecture.
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A variety of sushi that tends not to be seen so much in other parts of Japan, though, uses the oysters that thrive in these northern waters. Another tasty local specialty is the sea squirt. These sessile sea creatures are particularly prolific off the Sanriku Coast and, despite the inelegant name, do make for delightful sushi.
One does not need to be a sake connoisseur to know that Japan's national drink makes for the perfect accompaniment to its best-known dish. With the local seafood, the local sake is the wise choice, and Nanbu Bijin Brewery, located in Ninohe, is the name to watch for. Using the fine local water, Nanbu Bijin is unusual in that the owner of this family-run brewery also works as the head brewer. And this brewer's deep knowledge and well-honed skills are masterfully evident in such efforts as the rich, fragrant Nanbu Bijin daiginjo and the pure, elegant Nanbu Bijin tokubetsu junmai-shu. |
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