On March 22, 2025, the popular TV show "Ad-Town Heaven!" will celebrate its 30th anniversary with the landmark 1500th episode featuring Sangenjaya and Taishido, two vibrant neighborhoods located in Setagaya-ku, Tokyo. This special broadcast seeks to showcase not only the historical significance of the area but also the rich culinary offerings it has cultivated over decades.
Renowned as one of the finest gourmet locations, Sangenjaya has garnered attention for housing over 500 eateries within just 300 meters of its station. This statistic paints a vivid picture of the neighborhood as a hotbed of culinary activity, reminiscent of its historical roots when it was home to three famous tea houses, after which it was named. The broadcast will explore how these establishments contribute to making Sangenjaya and Taishido feel like authentic holds of Japan’s Showa era.
Kazuhiko Iinobara, one of the show’s beloved hosts, expressed his hopes for its continued relevance, noting, "I hope ‘Ad-Town Heaven!’ continues to be part of life for everyone." He, along with fellow host Minami Nakahara, will guide audiences through various segments celebrating local culture and cuisine, enticing viewers with rich anecdotes and vibrant visuals.
The show aims to spotlight the unique offerings of the area’s restaurants, including hidden gems known only to locals. A particularly interesting aspect of this year's program is the exploration of novel culinary delights such as the 'drinkable JINGISUKAN,' sparking curiosity and excitement among food enthusiasts. This blend of contemporary dining with nostalgic elements encapsulates the essence of food culture represented by Sangenjaya.
Among the many establishments highlighted will be eateries like Merry Lou, part of the Merry Group, which operates multiple diverse venues throughout the area. Their reputation is attributed to not only their quality food and drinks but also their unique, homey atmosphere, which encourages patrons to linger and enjoy social interactions.
Fans of ramen won't want to miss segments dedicated to AFURI, known for its Yuzu Ratan Ramen. Served for 1290 yen, it features thin, straight noodles and a complex soup structure encompassing the flavors of chicken, vegetables, and seafood. The careful crafting of the food—right down to the chashu pork grilled just before serving—ensures every dish is both delicious and memorable.
Historically significant, Oyama, which is located nearby, has drawn visitors and pilgrims since the Jomon period, with peaks reaching 1252 meters. Traditional pilgrimage patterns to Oyama gained momentum during the Edo period when approximately one in five people visited the mountain. Given this backdrop, the incorporation of such history adds depth to the culinary exploration, bridging contemporary tastes with age-old traditions.
Tanaka Pottery, identified as one of the 'Three Tea Houses of Sangenjaya,' was previously both a tea house and inn before morphing its business focus to pottery when train travel to Oyama became popular.
Will viewers witness the rich textures and flavors of traditional Japanese dishes? The answer is yes! The excitement will be palpable as hosts discuss various unique and bespoke culinary creations available exclusively at local venues. The nonchalance of the nostalgic alleyways beckons diners to explore hidden treasure troves, and the program aims to lay them all bare, urging everyone to take part.
With elements like reservation-only yakitori restaurants, unique late-night dishes from local meat shops, and eateries featuring exceptional quail rice, this program encapsulates the heart of Japan’s culinary treasures. Food lovers, historians, and anyone curious about Japanese culture will find something captivating.
Do not miss the show, as it promises to be both exploratory and celebratory, capturing the essence of Sangenjaya and Taishido’s growth from historical significance to modern-day culinary excellence. "Ad-Town Heaven!" encapsulates the aspirations of not merely recognizing local favorites but also breathing life back to these cherished culinary veins cutting through time.
Audiences and locals alike are buzzing with anticipation. The anniversary will not only mark milestones and memories but also prompt discussions around the future of local eateries and their role within the framework of Tokyo's ever-evolving culture. Tune in this March and celebrate along with viewers across the nation!