You Salty Dog You!
Shioya
Salt. Salt of the earth. Pillars of salt. Earn your daily salt. Take it with a grain of salt.
If you visit Shioya (Salt Store) in Azabu Juban you can get all the grains of salt you'll ever need, and then some.
Opened just a few months ago Shioya does a booming business in all things salt or salt related. Salt shakers, salt grinders, salt spoons, salt candies, and even salt. Oh yes, lots and lots of salt. You can sample salt cookies, candies, and various salts. They'll even give you a small cup of water to wash it down.
On the right side of the store is a counter with about 60 small bowls of various salts. The first couple of columns on the left are imported salts and the rest - nearly 50 different varieties - are all from Japan. Who knew Japan could produce so many kinds of salt.
It's a great place to buy a truly useful souvenir from Japan.
Getting there is easy. Take either the Oedo or Namboku subway line to Azabu Juban station. Take exit #5, turn left, and walk a couple of blocks. Shioya will be on your left in the Tomas Building (big sign, can't miss it).
Joe Peters
United States
