The sign’s calligraphy was done by the proprietor himself. Sake vessels made of Satsuma cut glass reflect Kagoshima hometown pride. Fish is mainly shipped in from Kitakyushu, but some are selected at the Tsuruhashi and Kuromon markets. For vinegared rice, the house favours the sour flavours of eastern Japan to the sweeter varieties of the west. In Edo style, rice from the previous harvest is cooked relatively firm, vinegared and kept at body temperature. Sushi of fatty tuna is formed with salt for a more striking flavour. Sea-urchin portions are generous. Even the rolled omelette shows the practised hand of the skilled sushi artisan.