Irori Sanzoku

Tuesday was our rest day.  At least it was for the children and I.  Andrew played golf at a nearby golf course most of the day, so, though I had had grand plans of going places that day, I figured it would do the kids well to spend the day exploring the Iwakuni Marine Corps base.  It frankly, was not very exciting and made me very thankful for what we have at Yokota.

That evening though we decided to try the Sanzoku or 'Chicken Shack', as it is commonly referred to we heard.  Tucked into the side of a mountain, it was bursting with atmosphere and it was a very Japanese experience.  It didn't seem to be just a restaurant, as the kids had plenty to do before we ate.  With a temple, pond, drums, stores etc.  We had great fun wandering around exploring the area.

Sanzoku is best known for their chicken on a stick, and gyoza.  And both were wonderful.

Molly was starving!

loved the hundreds of lanterns everywhere!

drum lessons

the atmosphere was incredible

you could eat outside under the trees on mats, but we were a tad chilly and opted for inside

koi pond

its own shrine

he kept coming back to the drum

Ready to eat!

Those gyoza did not last long!

our chef

 This was hands down the very best meal we have had in Japan.  Maybe it was the atmosphere, maybe it was just what we needed that day, but if you ever find yourself in this area,try it, I doubt you will be disappointed!