Kyotojin no Hisokana Tanoshimi Rouge - Keisho: Drama Notes
Feb. 22nd, 2026 12:31 pm![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png){kind=small}
earth_colorsHere are explanations or things to note, plus links to some of the filming sites for the 2026 NHK drama, Kyotojin no Hisokana Tanoshimi Rouge - Keisho:
EPISODE 1: ELEVEN HEADED KANNON
First off is the title: "京都人の密かな愉しみ". There are some acceptable translations of the title, like "Secret Pleasures of Kyoto Folk". The official English title that NHK used was "The Secret Lives of Kyoto Folk" which I find too broad. The French title shown in the opening credits is "Le Charme discret des gens de Kyoto" which IMO, doesn't quite cut it. To explore the meaning of 密かな愉しみ, these are the secret pleasures, maybe a personal hobby or pleasure that you don't want others to know about (gatekeeping?) or don't bother to talk about, and that you enjoy only in your own heart. They give you a sense of comfort or satisfaction like for example: late-night snacks, secret collections, luxurious time alone. In this case of the drama set in Kyoto, it can also refer to the unique cultures and customs that Kyoto city residents keep secret and that are not apparent to first-time visitors.
"Raku" [洛]. I am sure the notes in my drama subs clearly explains what "raku" is all about. Just to add, "rakuchu", "rakugai", "joraku" were mentioned as words having to do with "raku" or the capital city. The capital city being referred to here is of course Kyoto, not Tokyo. That is why the head priest says they're becoming obsolete, because Kyoto is no longer the capital.
The Two "Miyakos". There are two Miyakos in this drama: the older Miyako played by Tokiwa Takako, and her stepdaughter played by Hoshi Moeka.
The older Miyako's name is spelled as 三八子, while the younger Miyako is with a simple character name [洛].
We don't know if Raku was already born before her father met Miyako. But if she wasn't, aren't you bothered that Raku's father had the audacity to name his daughter after the girl who had fallen in love with him (and him with her), at the time he was married? How did Raku's poor mother felt about that?
Background story for those who did not watch the previous KyotoJin drama seasons:
Well, for now, it seems it is explained in the drama what the background story is behind the older Miyako, and why she left Kyoto for Paris. There is no need for now to add anything else, except maybe that she remained single and turned down marriage arrangements because she was still in love with Suguru.
Anyway, about the issue on saving Kuraya, she mentioned to her husband, "My mother and I did everything we could to keep the business going, even things you don't know about". I think I know what she meant, but it's best to wait. It will probably be revealed in a future episode.
Also, it seems there are recurring characters from the previous seasons who are guest starring in this season. I will discuss about them when their time comes.
The real Kuraya Harunobu. Kuraya is a fictional shop. But the shop shown and the address is real though: "Muromachi St, going up (or north) the intersection of Kamidachiuri street." Muromachi st which is a vertical street, is quite long and you need to point out the horizontal street that intersects it to give the idea of its exact location. Here is the intersection in google map street view (you will see this intersection in Ep 2). The shop used as filming location is the Tawaraya Yoshitomi Kyoto Confectionery Shop founded in 1755, and is right beside the post office.
The Chinowa Chant. When Miyako was cooking the red kidney beans for the minazuki cake, she was reciting the Chinowa chant. It is a ritual chant recited by Shinto priests during the June 30th ritual marking the start of the second half of the year, wishing for good health and good harvest. The priests pass through a huge wreath made of straw three times, with each passing through, they declare: (1) "It is said that those who perform the summer purification ritual in June will have their lifespan extended by as much as 1,000 years."; (2) "While all my worries are cleared away, I cut the hemp leaves into pieces, hopefully I can exorcise evil and impurities away"; and (3) "Somin Shorai, Somin Shorai". Somin Shorai is explained HERE.
The Ending Theme Song, "Mal Také Ebisu". It is based on the children's song "Kyoto Marutake Ebisu" which is used as a memorization song to help remember the streets found in the Kyoto city grid. For example, the first lines of the song, "Ma-Ru-Take-Ebisu-Ni-Oshi-Oike" stands for the streets from east to west (the horizontal streets) grid: Marutamachi-dori, Takeyamachi-dori, Ebisugawa-dori, Nijo-dori, Oshikoji-dori, Oike-dori. The second part of the song lists the streets from North to South or the vertical streets part of the map grid. For example the lines that start with "Tera-Goko-Fuya-Tomi-Yanagi-Sakai" stand for Teramachi-dori, Gokomachi-dori, Fuyacho-dori, Tominokoji-dori, Yanagi-no-banba-dori, Sakaimachi-dori.
Other filming sites:
Omido Kannon-ji Temple. First shrine that Raku visited after arriving in Kyoto, with the Eleven-Headed Kannon.
Address: 13 Fugenji Shimodaimon, Kyotanabe City, Kyoto
Sanjusangendo Temple. Second shrine that Raku visited, with the famous 1,001 statues of Kannon.
Address: 657 Sanjusangendomawari, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto
Nijo Bridge. Where Raku stopped to check out Kamo river and where she was seen using the stepping stones.
Address: Nijo Street, Kamo River, Kyoto (google map)
EPISODE 2: STRONGHOLD
The Three Kyoto Schools of Tea Ceremony. In the map shown in the drama, the three schools are located within the same area. These are "Omotesenke", "Urasenke", and "Mushakōjisenke". Learn more HERE.
Rakusha University. Its characters is 洛志社大学 and read as "Rakushisha University" (take note of the "raku"). It is a fictional name but the setting was shot at the Doshisha University Imadegawa Campus in Goshohachimancho, Kamigyo Ward, Kyoto. It is indeed a walking distance from the confectionery shop, and Raku's walking directions were accurate.
Edward Heathrow. One of the drama's main character and narrator in previous seasons, played by Dan Jiro. He was a professor of cultural anthropology from Yorkshire, England, and taught at Rakusha University. He made Kyoto his home base, and lived next door to the Kuraya shop. He observed Miyako through presumably a cultural anthropology point of view, since he thinks of her as the perfect person who embodies the quintessential Kyotoite, but sometimes his study of her was coming off as "stalker-ish". I've watched some of these episodes and somehow I find his character as an Englishman and story line (especially the case with his fiance) too cringey and off-putting. Actor Dan Jiro passed away on March 22, 2023, that is why Watanabe Ken assumed the role of Prof. Shinonome, to fill the void left by the late actor.
Kyoto-Jin. The kanji is 京都人. Normally, one would say 京都民 or 京都の住民 (Kyoto residents or Kyoto natives). When Raku heard "Kyoto-Jin", for her, it sounds like a different group of people or race or nationals, separate from "Nippon-jin" or Japanese person. So if forced to have an English equivalent, it probably sounded strange like "the Kyotonians" or "the Kyotonese".
Salon Kuraya. After class, Raku and her classmate went to drink tea at a cafe and tea salon which is an Ogawa branch operated by Kuraya Shop, and is located at Teranouchi st. As mentioned, Kuraya is based on Tawaraya confectionery shop, so the real Ogawa branch shop at Teranouchi is called "Salon Tawaraya", operated by Tawaraya (address: 592 Higashimachi Hokyoin Kamigyo Ward, Kyoto).
By the way, the sign in the drama that says "Salon Kuraya" is actually spelled as "Chalon Kuraya". The "cha" in "chalon" means "tea".
The Kyoto Person Certification Test. It is based on the real Kyoto Tourism and Culture Certification Test. Apparently, it is "a qualification test that certifies your knowledge of Kyoto from a wide range of perspectives, including Kyoto's history, culture, shrines and temples, festivals and events, crafts, cuisine, and lifestyles". Those who pass the Kyoto Exam will receive a "Certificate of Passing" for each level. By presenting their certificate (card), they can receive services such as discounts and exemptions to admission to cultural facilities such as Kyoto museums and art galleries. Those who pass the exam multiple times will be designated as "Kyoto Test Meisters" and will be given a cloisonné badge decorated with Swarovski crystals, corresponding to the number of times they have passed.
I think it's just too tourism gimmicky lol and there's no real merit but probably it's just a fun thing to do for Kyotonerds fans.
Choyo no Sekku Festival. The Chrysanthemum Festival also known as Double 9 Festival (Sept 9). You can read more HERE. I have a hard time researching what exactly a kisewata is, if it's cotton wool, cotton silk, floss silk. But since it was a Heian term no longer used/practiced today, I guess no one knows what kind of cotton it is.
The 5PM Chime. When Raku came home, there's music heard in the background. It's the 5PM afternoon chime "Yuyake Koyake" song played on the neighborhood public speaker. This was already discussed in "Grace no Rireki".
Also, just before she arrived home, you could hear the temple bell being rung 5 times, signaling that it's 5PM.
"What a stubborn woman you are". If you did not notice, when Raku asked her step-grandma to take it easy and called her 8th Generation, and added, "Ninth Generation and I will take over", it was meant to give a message to her stepmother that she is still determined to take over as the 10th generation. You can see Miyako's reaction as if she understands what Raku really meant, that is why she called her a stubborn woman, realizing that she could not change Raku's mind, even after all that imploring for Raku to think about it first.
"Late by a hair's breadth, Yamashiro time". What was actually said: "Kaminoke ichi-pon, Yamashiro jikan". Professor Shinonome said this about his student after arriving one minute late.
It is a phrase that expresses the traditional Kyoto spirit of hospitality (consideration). It is good etiquette to arrive a little late, knowing that the other person will be busy preparing right up until the last minute, and arrive at the perfect time when the host has a chance to catch their breath. Late by "one hair" is around a minute or four, "two hairs" is 5-7 minutes. Also called "Yamashiro Time", with Yamashiro as the ancient province name of Kyoto prefecture (southern part), so it basically means "Kyoto Time".
Other filming sites:
Kaso Shrine on the grounds of Yoshida Shrine. Miyako's first stop after arriving in Kyoto. She prays to the god of confectionery for guidance, Hayashi Join (also Rin Join), a monk from China who introduced Chinese manju (which contained meat products) to Japan (sometime in the 1300s), and created the Japanese Buddhist version of it, using local, vegetarian ingredients.
Address: 8 Yoshidakaguraokacho, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto
Honpoji Shrine. Where Miyako and Raku talked after tea. You could see them walking straight across from Salon Kuraya/Tawaraya towards the direction of the shrine.
Miyako said she gave up her dream of becoming a teacher, and cried a lot at this shrine. But it is my personal assumption that this was more than just giving up her dream. By this time, Suguru was apprenticing at Kuraya. And this was maybe when a married Suguru was sent away by her parents to work at another confectionery shop since she and he were getting too close. I could also assume that perhaps Honpoji Shrine was their secret meeting place ever since they were young, hmm...
Address: 617 Honpojimaecho, Kamigyo Ward, Kyoto
EPISODE 1: ELEVEN HEADED KANNON
First off is the title: "京都人の密かな愉しみ". There are some acceptable translations of the title, like "Secret Pleasures of Kyoto Folk". The official English title that NHK used was "The Secret Lives of Kyoto Folk" which I find too broad. The French title shown in the opening credits is "Le Charme discret des gens de Kyoto" which IMO, doesn't quite cut it. To explore the meaning of 密かな愉しみ, these are the secret pleasures, maybe a personal hobby or pleasure that you don't want others to know about (gatekeeping?) or don't bother to talk about, and that you enjoy only in your own heart. They give you a sense of comfort or satisfaction like for example: late-night snacks, secret collections, luxurious time alone. In this case of the drama set in Kyoto, it can also refer to the unique cultures and customs that Kyoto city residents keep secret and that are not apparent to first-time visitors.
"Raku" [洛]. I am sure the notes in my drama subs clearly explains what "raku" is all about. Just to add, "rakuchu", "rakugai", "joraku" were mentioned as words having to do with "raku" or the capital city. The capital city being referred to here is of course Kyoto, not Tokyo. That is why the head priest says they're becoming obsolete, because Kyoto is no longer the capital.
The Two "Miyakos". There are two Miyakos in this drama: the older Miyako played by Tokiwa Takako, and her stepdaughter played by Hoshi Moeka.
The older Miyako's name is spelled as 三八子, while the younger Miyako is with a simple character name [洛].
We don't know if Raku was already born before her father met Miyako. But if she wasn't, aren't you bothered that Raku's father had the audacity to name his daughter after the girl who had fallen in love with him (and him with her), at the time he was married? How did Raku's poor mother felt about that?
Background story for those who did not watch the previous KyotoJin drama seasons:
Well, for now, it seems it is explained in the drama what the background story is behind the older Miyako, and why she left Kyoto for Paris. There is no need for now to add anything else, except maybe that she remained single and turned down marriage arrangements because she was still in love with Suguru.
Anyway, about the issue on saving Kuraya, she mentioned to her husband, "My mother and I did everything we could to keep the business going, even things you don't know about". I think I know what she meant, but it's best to wait. It will probably be revealed in a future episode.
Also, it seems there are recurring characters from the previous seasons who are guest starring in this season. I will discuss about them when their time comes.
The real Kuraya Harunobu. Kuraya is a fictional shop. But the shop shown and the address is real though: "Muromachi St, going up (or north) the intersection of Kamidachiuri street." Muromachi st which is a vertical street, is quite long and you need to point out the horizontal street that intersects it to give the idea of its exact location. Here is the intersection in google map street view (you will see this intersection in Ep 2). The shop used as filming location is the Tawaraya Yoshitomi Kyoto Confectionery Shop founded in 1755, and is right beside the post office.
The Chinowa Chant. When Miyako was cooking the red kidney beans for the minazuki cake, she was reciting the Chinowa chant. It is a ritual chant recited by Shinto priests during the June 30th ritual marking the start of the second half of the year, wishing for good health and good harvest. The priests pass through a huge wreath made of straw three times, with each passing through, they declare: (1) "It is said that those who perform the summer purification ritual in June will have their lifespan extended by as much as 1,000 years."; (2) "While all my worries are cleared away, I cut the hemp leaves into pieces, hopefully I can exorcise evil and impurities away"; and (3) "Somin Shorai, Somin Shorai". Somin Shorai is explained HERE.
The Ending Theme Song, "Mal Také Ebisu". It is based on the children's song "Kyoto Marutake Ebisu" which is used as a memorization song to help remember the streets found in the Kyoto city grid. For example, the first lines of the song, "Ma-Ru-Take-Ebisu-Ni-Oshi-Oike" stands for the streets from east to west (the horizontal streets) grid: Marutamachi-dori, Takeyamachi-dori, Ebisugawa-dori, Nijo-dori, Oshikoji-dori, Oike-dori. The second part of the song lists the streets from North to South or the vertical streets part of the map grid. For example the lines that start with "Tera-Goko-Fuya-Tomi-Yanagi-Sakai" stand for Teramachi-dori, Gokomachi-dori, Fuyacho-dori, Tominokoji-dori, Yanagi-no-banba-dori, Sakaimachi-dori.
Other filming sites:
Omido Kannon-ji Temple. First shrine that Raku visited after arriving in Kyoto, with the Eleven-Headed Kannon.
Address: 13 Fugenji Shimodaimon, Kyotanabe City, Kyoto
Sanjusangendo Temple. Second shrine that Raku visited, with the famous 1,001 statues of Kannon.
Address: 657 Sanjusangendomawari, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto
Nijo Bridge. Where Raku stopped to check out Kamo river and where she was seen using the stepping stones.
Address: Nijo Street, Kamo River, Kyoto (google map)
>>>>>o<<<<<
EPISODE 2: STRONGHOLD
The Three Kyoto Schools of Tea Ceremony. In the map shown in the drama, the three schools are located within the same area. These are "Omotesenke", "Urasenke", and "Mushakōjisenke". Learn more HERE.
Rakusha University. Its characters is 洛志社大学 and read as "Rakushisha University" (take note of the "raku"). It is a fictional name but the setting was shot at the Doshisha University Imadegawa Campus in Goshohachimancho, Kamigyo Ward, Kyoto. It is indeed a walking distance from the confectionery shop, and Raku's walking directions were accurate.
Edward Heathrow. One of the drama's main character and narrator in previous seasons, played by Dan Jiro. He was a professor of cultural anthropology from Yorkshire, England, and taught at Rakusha University. He made Kyoto his home base, and lived next door to the Kuraya shop. He observed Miyako through presumably a cultural anthropology point of view, since he thinks of her as the perfect person who embodies the quintessential Kyotoite, but sometimes his study of her was coming off as "stalker-ish". I've watched some of these episodes and somehow I find his character as an Englishman and story line (especially the case with his fiance) too cringey and off-putting. Actor Dan Jiro passed away on March 22, 2023, that is why Watanabe Ken assumed the role of Prof. Shinonome, to fill the void left by the late actor.
Kyoto-Jin. The kanji is 京都人. Normally, one would say 京都民 or 京都の住民 (Kyoto residents or Kyoto natives). When Raku heard "Kyoto-Jin", for her, it sounds like a different group of people or race or nationals, separate from "Nippon-jin" or Japanese person. So if forced to have an English equivalent, it probably sounded strange like "the Kyotonians" or "the Kyotonese".
Salon Kuraya. After class, Raku and her classmate went to drink tea at a cafe and tea salon which is an Ogawa branch operated by Kuraya Shop, and is located at Teranouchi st. As mentioned, Kuraya is based on Tawaraya confectionery shop, so the real Ogawa branch shop at Teranouchi is called "Salon Tawaraya", operated by Tawaraya (address: 592 Higashimachi Hokyoin Kamigyo Ward, Kyoto).
By the way, the sign in the drama that says "Salon Kuraya" is actually spelled as "Chalon Kuraya". The "cha" in "chalon" means "tea".
The Kyoto Person Certification Test. It is based on the real Kyoto Tourism and Culture Certification Test. Apparently, it is "a qualification test that certifies your knowledge of Kyoto from a wide range of perspectives, including Kyoto's history, culture, shrines and temples, festivals and events, crafts, cuisine, and lifestyles". Those who pass the Kyoto Exam will receive a "Certificate of Passing" for each level. By presenting their certificate (card), they can receive services such as discounts and exemptions to admission to cultural facilities such as Kyoto museums and art galleries. Those who pass the exam multiple times will be designated as "Kyoto Test Meisters" and will be given a cloisonné badge decorated with Swarovski crystals, corresponding to the number of times they have passed.
I think it's just too tourism gimmicky lol and there's no real merit but probably it's just a fun thing to do for Kyoto
Choyo no Sekku Festival. The Chrysanthemum Festival also known as Double 9 Festival (Sept 9). You can read more HERE. I have a hard time researching what exactly a kisewata is, if it's cotton wool, cotton silk, floss silk. But since it was a Heian term no longer used/practiced today, I guess no one knows what kind of cotton it is.
The 5PM Chime. When Raku came home, there's music heard in the background. It's the 5PM afternoon chime "Yuyake Koyake" song played on the neighborhood public speaker. This was already discussed in "Grace no Rireki".
Also, just before she arrived home, you could hear the temple bell being rung 5 times, signaling that it's 5PM.
"What a stubborn woman you are". If you did not notice, when Raku asked her step-grandma to take it easy and called her 8th Generation, and added, "Ninth Generation and I will take over", it was meant to give a message to her stepmother that she is still determined to take over as the 10th generation. You can see Miyako's reaction as if she understands what Raku really meant, that is why she called her a stubborn woman, realizing that she could not change Raku's mind, even after all that imploring for Raku to think about it first.
"Late by a hair's breadth, Yamashiro time". What was actually said: "Kaminoke ichi-pon, Yamashiro jikan". Professor Shinonome said this about his student after arriving one minute late.
It is a phrase that expresses the traditional Kyoto spirit of hospitality (consideration). It is good etiquette to arrive a little late, knowing that the other person will be busy preparing right up until the last minute, and arrive at the perfect time when the host has a chance to catch their breath. Late by "one hair" is around a minute or four, "two hairs" is 5-7 minutes. Also called "Yamashiro Time", with Yamashiro as the ancient province name of Kyoto prefecture (southern part), so it basically means "Kyoto Time".
Other filming sites:
Kaso Shrine on the grounds of Yoshida Shrine. Miyako's first stop after arriving in Kyoto. She prays to the god of confectionery for guidance, Hayashi Join (also Rin Join), a monk from China who introduced Chinese manju (which contained meat products) to Japan (sometime in the 1300s), and created the Japanese Buddhist version of it, using local, vegetarian ingredients.
Address: 8 Yoshidakaguraokacho, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto
Honpoji Shrine. Where Miyako and Raku talked after tea. You could see them walking straight across from Salon Kuraya/Tawaraya towards the direction of the shrine.
Miyako said she gave up her dream of becoming a teacher, and cried a lot at this shrine. But it is my personal assumption that this was more than just giving up her dream. By this time, Suguru was apprenticing at Kuraya. And this was maybe when a married Suguru was sent away by her parents to work at another confectionery shop since she and he were getting too close. I could also assume that perhaps Honpoji Shrine was their secret meeting place ever since they were young, hmm...
Address: 617 Honpojimaecho, Kamigyo Ward, Kyoto
>>>>>o<<<<<
EPISODE 3: RAKUCHU RAKUGAI
Rakuchu, Rakugai, etc. There are so many Kyoto place names in this episode. For those who are not familiar with Japanese language, it may be hard to remember these names. But the names are understandable for those familar with kanji because the kanji used denotes the meaning of the names. Rakuchu = "raku" (capital) + "chu" (inside) while Rakugai is with "gai" (outside). Kamigyo = "kami" (upper) + "gyo" (capital), Nakagyo with "naka" (middle); Shimogyo with "shimo" that means "lower part of the capital". Meanwhile "Kugemachi" means "noblemen's town". And "Rakuhoku" means "north part of raku" (the farmlands that Izuki mentioned that he thinks should not be considered Rakuchu).
BTW, which Rakuchu-Rakugai theory is more plausible? It seems the theory presented by Hiiragiko is viewed as the most acceptable one.
Types of anko mentioned. Anko is a paste made from beans like azuki beans used as filling for Japanese sweets, or topped on bread or dango. Made by boiling the beans, and mashing them. It could be smooth or chunky type.
Koshi-an. During the straining process, outer skin is removed, that is why it is the extremely smooth type, and this smoothness is achieved through skilled techniques.
Ogura-an. Using large azuki beans such as dainagon beans, and honey, sweetening them, and mixing them with koshi-an.
Uguisu-an. Made using boiled and mashed green peas, sweetened with sugar or syrup.
Shiro-an. It means "white anko", made from white kidney beans like navy beans.
Neither from the sea nor the mountains. An idiom/proverb that describes a situation where it's unclear whether something is of the sea or the mountains, in other words, it's unclear which way things will go. The literal meaning refers to an unknown object that has never been caught in the sea or on land, and because its true nature and identity are unknown, it is impossible to predict or decide how to handle it. The English equivalent is "neither fish, flesh, nor good red herring", meaning it is uncategorized. In this case, Raku is uncategorized because she is technically a Kyoto person (born there and speaks the language) but then again, not really lol.
Heian-kyo. One of several former names for the city now known as Kyoto. The square or rectangular layout as shown in this episode is based on Chinese geomancy, with the Emperor's residence situated at the north or central top part of the map. The city is divided into two sections (Left and Right) by a line drawn straight down in a form of a major street called "Suzaki Oji". If you watched the "Kamakura-dono" 2023 NHK Taiga drama, you hear military official titles like "Great Guardian of the Left", or "Horse Cavalry Commander of the Right", this is what this means, with left side titles as more prominent positions than those on the right.
Toyotomi Hideyoshi's Urban Development and Remodeling of Kyoto. This is explained in detail HERE. In a nutshell, Hideyoshi had his own palace erected on the former site of Emperor's dairi, had odoi (walls) and moats built (clearly delineating the city borders), and had more temples set up particularly in areas later called Teranouchi and Teramachi. His "Tensho no Jiwari" (Land Division of the Tensho Period) added more vertical streets (thereby changing the map layout grid from square plots to rectangular plots).
These were all done to make Kyoto city layout more efficient and clear, protect the city from enemies, stop the spread of fire, and to make use of idle lands/plots. Most of this new city layout is still retained up to today.
Gion Festival. You can read more on this wiki article, and learn more about the yama and haka floats. If you notice in the background, Prof. Shinonome has a collection of miniature 3d images of Gion Festval floats inside his office room. The one on top of his shelf/cabinet is the Naginata Hoko float which comes out first during the parade of floats. He used this as a marker on the map of Yamahoko-cho. But Izuki wanted the professor to use instead the Kuronushi yama float which represents Izuki's neighborhood.
Yamahoko-cho as the real Rakuchu. IMO, the townspeople here considered themselves special, and are protective of their interests and since they have some considerable wealth and influence, they had moats built surrounding their town area. So for me, it sounds more like they're "the Kyoto within Kyoto within Kyoto".
"Izuyo" Kimono Wholesaler. This is based on the real kimono company Kondaya Genbei, Inc. (est. 1738), with the same address as shown in the drama. You can see the street view HERE (address: 489 Eboshiyacho, Nakagyo, Kyoto). It does feature a museum showcasing their products and history, that was also shown in this episode. Izuki says the company name "Izuyo" comes from the first kanji 伊 (Izu) of the "Izuki" surname plus the first kanji 譽 ("kon" or "yo") of his father's given name "Kondayu". The "kon" is also the same kanji in the real-life kimono company "Kondaya".
Rakuchu, Rakugai, etc. There are so many Kyoto place names in this episode. For those who are not familiar with Japanese language, it may be hard to remember these names. But the names are understandable for those familar with kanji because the kanji used denotes the meaning of the names. Rakuchu = "raku" (capital) + "chu" (inside) while Rakugai is with "gai" (outside). Kamigyo = "kami" (upper) + "gyo" (capital), Nakagyo with "naka" (middle); Shimogyo with "shimo" that means "lower part of the capital". Meanwhile "Kugemachi" means "noblemen's town". And "Rakuhoku" means "north part of raku" (the farmlands that Izuki mentioned that he thinks should not be considered Rakuchu).
BTW, which Rakuchu-Rakugai theory is more plausible? It seems the theory presented by Hiiragiko is viewed as the most acceptable one.
Types of anko mentioned. Anko is a paste made from beans like azuki beans used as filling for Japanese sweets, or topped on bread or dango. Made by boiling the beans, and mashing them. It could be smooth or chunky type.
Koshi-an. During the straining process, outer skin is removed, that is why it is the extremely smooth type, and this smoothness is achieved through skilled techniques.
Ogura-an. Using large azuki beans such as dainagon beans, and honey, sweetening them, and mixing them with koshi-an.
Uguisu-an. Made using boiled and mashed green peas, sweetened with sugar or syrup.
Shiro-an. It means "white anko", made from white kidney beans like navy beans.
Neither from the sea nor the mountains. An idiom/proverb that describes a situation where it's unclear whether something is of the sea or the mountains, in other words, it's unclear which way things will go. The literal meaning refers to an unknown object that has never been caught in the sea or on land, and because its true nature and identity are unknown, it is impossible to predict or decide how to handle it. The English equivalent is "neither fish, flesh, nor good red herring", meaning it is uncategorized. In this case, Raku is uncategorized because she is technically a Kyoto person (born there and speaks the language) but then again, not really lol.
Heian-kyo. One of several former names for the city now known as Kyoto. The square or rectangular layout as shown in this episode is based on Chinese geomancy, with the Emperor's residence situated at the north or central top part of the map. The city is divided into two sections (Left and Right) by a line drawn straight down in a form of a major street called "Suzaki Oji". If you watched the "Kamakura-dono" 2023 NHK Taiga drama, you hear military official titles like "Great Guardian of the Left", or "Horse Cavalry Commander of the Right", this is what this means, with left side titles as more prominent positions than those on the right.
Toyotomi Hideyoshi's Urban Development and Remodeling of Kyoto. This is explained in detail HERE. In a nutshell, Hideyoshi had his own palace erected on the former site of Emperor's dairi, had odoi (walls) and moats built (clearly delineating the city borders), and had more temples set up particularly in areas later called Teranouchi and Teramachi. His "Tensho no Jiwari" (Land Division of the Tensho Period) added more vertical streets (thereby changing the map layout grid from square plots to rectangular plots).
These were all done to make Kyoto city layout more efficient and clear, protect the city from enemies, stop the spread of fire, and to make use of idle lands/plots. Most of this new city layout is still retained up to today.
Gion Festival. You can read more on this wiki article, and learn more about the yama and haka floats. If you notice in the background, Prof. Shinonome has a collection of miniature 3d images of Gion Festval floats inside his office room. The one on top of his shelf/cabinet is the Naginata Hoko float which comes out first during the parade of floats. He used this as a marker on the map of Yamahoko-cho. But Izuki wanted the professor to use instead the Kuronushi yama float which represents Izuki's neighborhood.
Yamahoko-cho as the real Rakuchu. IMO, the townspeople here considered themselves special, and are protective of their interests and since they have some considerable wealth and influence, they had moats built surrounding their town area. So for me, it sounds more like they're "the Kyoto within Kyoto within Kyoto".
"Izuyo" Kimono Wholesaler. This is based on the real kimono company Kondaya Genbei, Inc. (est. 1738), with the same address as shown in the drama. You can see the street view HERE (address: 489 Eboshiyacho, Nakagyo, Kyoto). It does feature a museum showcasing their products and history, that was also shown in this episode. Izuki says the company name "Izuyo" comes from the first kanji 伊 (Izu) of the "Izuki" surname plus the first kanji 譽 ("kon" or "yo") of his father's given name "Kondayu". The "kon" is also the same kanji in the real-life kimono company "Kondaya".
In the scene, Izuki meets with Raku and Hiiragiko at the intersection of Karasuma and Aneyakoji. They proceed to Aneyakoji st and stop at the intersection of Muromachi. However, it cuts to the next shot of them walking farther up north past Muromachi-Sanjodori intersection, showing the elegant facade of the ryokan "Hiramatsu". Then suddenly they arrive at "Izuyo/Kondaya" kimono company.
Wakabayashi Shiho. Recurring character played by Akiyama Natsuko, and the proprietress of Bar Forest Down. She appeared in previous season, "Kyotojin no Hisakana Tanoshimi Rough Blue - Training" as the mother of one of the main characters Kotaro played by Hayashi Kento. This bar is the favorite hang-out place of the young characters of the past seasons. Shiho would serve them food and drinks and give motherly advice to those who need it. Okami-san Tsuruko and Heathrow were also regular customers.
The meaning of "Forest Down" could come from their surname Wakabayashi (means "Young Forest"), and "Down" could mean the street location ("down" = "going south" and "up" = "going north").
Other filming sites:
Nashinoki Shrine. 19th century shrine featured at the start and ending credits of this episode. Approximately 500 hagi or bush clover trees (which are shown in this episode) are planted within the shrine grounds, giving it the nickname Hagi no Miya, where the Hagi (Bush Clover) Festival is held from mid-to late September.
Address: 680 Somedonocho, Kamigyo Ward, Kyoto
Kojinguchi Bridge. Where Tsuruko stopped by after her visit to the doctor, gazing north at the mountains, worrying if she will live long enough to see future festivals and celebrate seasonal traditions which she loves so much.
Address: Kohinguchi st, Kamo River, Kyoto (street view)
Oike Koto Building. Where Raku and Hiiragiko said goodbye at the intersection of Muromachi and Oike, after their on-site research, with the lovely, eye-catching sun design at the front.
Address: 324 Oikenocho, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto (street view)
Cafe Mole (front only). The green shrubbery-covered facade of the building, serving as the outside setting of "Bar Forest Down", which is located at Gokomachi st, up from Oshikochi st.
Address: 424 Yamamotocho, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto (street view)
Wakabayashi Shiho. Recurring character played by Akiyama Natsuko, and the proprietress of Bar Forest Down. She appeared in previous season, "Kyotojin no Hisakana Tanoshimi Rough Blue - Training" as the mother of one of the main characters Kotaro played by Hayashi Kento. This bar is the favorite hang-out place of the young characters of the past seasons. Shiho would serve them food and drinks and give motherly advice to those who need it. Okami-san Tsuruko and Heathrow were also regular customers.
The meaning of "Forest Down" could come from their surname Wakabayashi (means "Young Forest"), and "Down" could mean the street location ("down" = "going south" and "up" = "going north").
Other filming sites:
Nashinoki Shrine. 19th century shrine featured at the start and ending credits of this episode. Approximately 500 hagi or bush clover trees (which are shown in this episode) are planted within the shrine grounds, giving it the nickname Hagi no Miya, where the Hagi (Bush Clover) Festival is held from mid-to late September.
Address: 680 Somedonocho, Kamigyo Ward, Kyoto
Kojinguchi Bridge. Where Tsuruko stopped by after her visit to the doctor, gazing north at the mountains, worrying if she will live long enough to see future festivals and celebrate seasonal traditions which she loves so much.
Address: Kohinguchi st, Kamo River, Kyoto (street view)
Oike Koto Building. Where Raku and Hiiragiko said goodbye at the intersection of Muromachi and Oike, after their on-site research, with the lovely, eye-catching sun design at the front.
Address: 324 Oikenocho, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto (street view)
Cafe Mole (front only). The green shrubbery-covered facade of the building, serving as the outside setting of "Bar Forest Down", which is located at Gokomachi st, up from Oshikochi st.
Address: 424 Yamamotocho, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto (street view)
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