If you have spent any time in Japan at all, you will likely have noticed, and perhaps marveled at, the ubiquitous use of replica food samples displayed outside of restaurants and cafeterias. These models - often extremely realistic, sometimes a little over-the-top - beckon the potential customer to take a taste.

However, not as well known as the displays themselves, is their history and origin in Gifu. It all began with Takizo Iwasaki, who was born and raised in Gujo Hachiman, Gifu Prefecture. He was initially inspired by the capabilities of wax to take on various forms when he was visiting a shrine in his hometown. As part of a common practice at the time, Iwasaki went to "retire" one of his worn out writing brushes. Some of the wax from the candle he was offering at the shrine fell into a puddle, and by chance the wax landed splattering in such a way that it resembled a withered white plum blossom (1).

This moment triggered the idea to use wax as a molding material, and led Iwasaki to experiment making various items. Identifying a possible market for replica display food, Takizo Iwasaki founded a business in the field in 1932. The first successful replica was one of omuretsu, or a Japanese style rice omelet (1).

For those interested in experiencing first hand the food replica process that originates in Gifu, there are several shops in the Gujo Hachiman area that offer opportunities for guests to make the wax foods for themselves. Perhaps the largest location is Sample Village Iwasaki, located conveniently just a few minutes walk from the Gujo Hachiman Station. There are two main options for hands-on replica making experiences at this location:

A) Lettuce head (1, cut in half); tempura (3 pieces); candles (2) ? 1000 yen
B) Lettuce head (1, cut in half); tempura (1 piece); candles (2) ? 700 yen
*Guests can select from a range of pre-made "vegetables" to make their tempura pieces.
**Entrance fee: Adults 300 yen, Children 200 yen, group discounts available. (Includes your choice of one mobile strap or keychain ornament.)

If you make a special reservation on a weekday (excluding holidays or summer vacation) it is possible to make more complicated replicas, such as spaghetti, or shaved ice. Reservations are required and can be made by phone or in person by dropping by the facility.

During the replica making experience itself, first one of the staff members of the Sample Village will go through and explain the process in Japanese, while performing it in front of everyone. (Watch out for their tips on how to avoid burning your hands on the hot wax!) Then each participant waits to get their chance to make the various items they have selected. Staff offer support throughout on how to make the various items. (The lettuce was the trickiest in the standard package to make!) If you're feeling creative you can experiment by making your candles using multiple layers of different colored wax!

Once you've completed the challenge, you are free to walk around and enjoy the various replicas on exhibit, as well as shop to your heart's content for wax replica food magnets, key chains, mobile straps, and proper replica display dishes. Yum!

ACCESS:
(Train)
JR Gifu Station (Takayama Line)→ Mino-ota Station (Nagaragawa Line) → Gujo Hachiman Station.

(Gifu Bus)
Take a bus bound for Hachiman Eigyosho (八幡営業所), get off at "Jyounan-cho" (城南町) bus stop and walk for one minute.

(Car)
3 min. from the Tokai-Hokuriku Expwy. Gujo Hachiman IC.

PLACE:
250 Jyounan-cho, Hachiman-cho, Gujo City, Gifu Prefecture
〒501-4224
岐阜県郡上市八幡町城南町250
TEL 0575-65-3378

WORKS CITED:
(1) "いわさきの歴史". Gujo Hachiman Sample Village Iwasaki. 2008. Retrieved 2010-10-04.

-Erin T

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