[Koji Higashino] Visiting the fruit shop rumored to be the best in Japan, "Kanakubo Shoten"! A story of uncompromising craftsmanship and a heartwarming family
Koji Higashino's YouTube channel "Higashino vs" has restarted after about a year. Moving away from the previous talk show format, a new documentary project has begun, driven by Higashino's passionate desire to "see a documentary about people working hard."
The commemorative first episode of the renewal features a collaboration with Kenta "Pujolji" Omae, a talented director who won a Galaxy Award for his TV programs, as they cover "Kanakubo Shoten," a long-established fruit shop in Kanagawa Prefecture rumored to be the "best in Japan."
Hidden behind an unconventional business style of "not selling anything on days when there is nothing delicious," the shop's obsessive love for fruit and a heartwarming family story that even brings Higashino to tears have touched the hearts of many viewers.
Video Overview and Content
The video begins with Higashino, who was told by a well-informed acquaintance that there is "the most amazing fruit shop in Japan," visiting "Kanakubo Shoten," which has been in business for about 130 years in Kanagawa Prefecture.
[Main Content of the Video]
Tasting exquisite fruits: Higashino tastes top-tier fruits carefully selected by the fourth-generation owner, such as "King Dela" grapes from Yamanashi Prefecture and melons from Shizuoka Prefecture.
Meticulous sourcing techniques: Introducing the thorough commitment of the owner, who doesn't just rely on sugar content numbers but visits production areas himself to verify quality with his own tongue.
The owner's life and family bonds: A documentary segment that delves into how he took over the shop at 25, his feelings for his predecessor, and the respect his son expresses for his father.
The transition from a location shoot filled with laughter to a full-fledged human documentary in the second half is a must-see.
Here are the highlights! Three things to look for in the video
1. No compromises! The artisan's extraordinary obsession with "communicating with fruit"
The biggest feature of Kanakubo Shoten is its overwhelming commitment to quality. Even when regular customers come to buy, if the owner hasn't been able to source fruit he is satisfied with, he honestly tells them, "I have nothing to recommend today," and refuses to sell.
"My grandmother, who was born in the Meiji era, left a will saying, 'Treat women and fruit with kindness.'"
The owner, who says this, demonstrates god-like skills, such as perfectly determining the ripeness (the best time to eat) by the change in sound when tapping a melon, as if he were "talking to the fruit." His stance of delivering to customers without missing the "peak of the season" is that of a true professional artisan.
2. More acclaimed than the fruit!? The surprisingly unexpected "Onion Kimchi"
Among the top-class fruits on display, the "Onion Kimchi" from Awaji Island stood out. Higashino, who tasted this item born from the owner's extraordinary quest for ingredients, was wide-eyed with astonishment.
"This could be my last meal."
He showed a reaction of high praise, with the crunchy texture and delicious flavor seemingly coming through the screen. It is a famous scene that offers a glimpse into the shop's philosophy of stocking only "truly delicious things," even when it comes to vegetables and pickles, despite being a fruit shop.
3. The son talks about his father's back, and the unexpected "punchline"
In the second half of the video, an interview with the owner's son is conducted. The son says, "I don't know if I will take over the shop, but I want to preserve my father's philosophy and feelings toward fruit." He shares a piece of advice his father gave him that he still cherishes today.
"Life is all about encounters and timing."
It is a deeply moving quote that is fitting for an owner who values the season (timing) of fruit above all else. However, when this touching episode was relayed to the owner himself, it led to an unexpected conclusion where he laughed it off, saying, "I have no memory of saying that." Higashino, who was watching the footage in the studio, quipped, "I was getting teary-eyed!" while still being wrapped in a warm, lingering sentiment.
Summary
The revamped "Higashino vs" has evolved into a compelling documentary program that goes beyond simple gourmet location shoots to delve deeply into the lives and philosophies of the people working there.
The pride of a craftsman who refuses to compromise, and the family bonds that are being passed down surely, if a bit clumsily. Laugh, be surprised, and perhaps shed a tear at the end... please experience this heart-stirring video for yourself on the actual YouTube video!