Japan House Presents the First Japanese Food Replica Exhibition in the UK
For the next few months only, Japan House London is offering a unique exhibition that provides a deep insight into Japanese culinary culture. Their free exhibition ‘Looks Delicious!’, is definitely not one to miss if you’re a foodie with an open mind and a penchant for trying something new.
It’s Tuesday. I’m sitting at my laptop, looking for something truly unique to write about – something that will inspire people to spice up their lives and head somewhere more exciting than Café Nero for those same mundane lunch break conversations. So, I did some research.
Types into Google : “What are the best exhibitions in London right now?”
Hmm… Japan House London’s Looks Delicious! exhibition is supposed to be interesting. Let’s give it a go. Books ticket for the next day.
And that’s how I discovered this gem of a sensory cultural overload.
A Sensory Experience
Located just outside High Street Kensington Underground Station, Japan House immediately draws in passersby with its ornately decorated windows piled high with what look like delicious desserts. Showcasing the first taste of the exhibition, I stopped to take in the sights before heading downstairs to explore further.
Explore Japanese Culinary Culture at Japan House London
I was led into the exhibition by two friendly and accommodating staff members, and the first thing I noticed inside was… a pile of onions. No, really. Except they weren’t onions at all – they were balls of PVC.
Japan House’s Looks Delicious! exhibition is here to teach us about the fascinating culture of food replicas in Japan. The concept of moulding and painting wax and PVC to resemble the food that restaurants and cafes are selling, making it look as appetizing as possible to display in their shop windows and draw in hungry customers from the outside. It’s a brilliant idea from both marketing and economic perspectives. These food replicas, which never spoil, give customers a permanent, visual representation of what’s on the menu, avoiding the need for frequent replacements or dealing with bad odours and food wastage. And since the food replicas are really works of art themselves, it doesn’t hurt for the makers to make them look a little too unrealistically perfect.
As I wandered around the exhibition, I watched videos and saw step-by-step demonstrations of how these food replicas are made. From the creation of the moulds made from the shape of the original foods to the solidifying of the plastic or wax mimics followed by the intricate painting process, it was fascinating to witness how each piece transforms into a lifelike replica.
The History of Food Replicas in Japan
Food replicas are a concept that first started during the early 20th century. The exhibition explains that it became more popular to eat out at ‘department store dining halls (食堂, shokudō)’ which usually served a large variety of dishes, including popular meals from overseas. Therefore, to help promote the foreign cuisines, food replicas were used to help introduce the Japanese people to these new foods and help them identify them. This made restaurant service much more convenient, as customers could choose a dish based on the food replica and price card on display outside and then buy a meal ticket for their selection inside.
What to Expect
I won’t spoil too much more of the exhibition, because it’s worth experiencing firsthand. However, I can say that it taught me more about Japanese food than I ever imagined. The exhibition highlights many popular Japanese dishes through stunning replicas, making it an excellent educational and fun way to spend 30 minutes to an hour if you’re in the area. Plus, I guarantee it’ll make your stomach rumble! Luckily, Japan House also has its own Japanese café on-site, which also ‘Looks Delicious!‘
The Verdict
If you’re looking for something different to do in London, Looks Delicious! at Japan House is definitely worth checking out. Just remember to book your free tickets online first! Whether you’re a foodie or just curious about Japanese culture, this exhibition offers a quirky and fun insight into the art of food replicas. It’s a fascinating way to spend an hour or so, and trust me, it’ll have you leaving with a newfound appreciation for how much work goes into making food look so good!
The exhibition does a great job of blending education and entertainment, with impressive displays and behind-the-scenes videos that are surprisingly captivating. Plus, it’s completely free – so there’s really no excuse not to pop in if you’re in the area. And don’t forget, Japan House also has a café and store where you can grab an authentic Japanese snack after you’ve had your fill of the food replicas.
Overall, Looks Delicious! is a fantastic cultural experience, and it’s certainly one that’ll leave your stomach rumbling in the best way possible!
Quirky Highlights:
Before you head in, here are some out-of-context spoilers that add a playful twist to your visit:
Strict Warnings: Be prepared for the strict warnings to resist the urge to nibble on the exhibits!
Potato Paint: Discover the innovative paint specifically created to mimic the perfect color of a potato.
Crab with a Twist: Look out for a whimsical display featuring a crab enjoying a beer—because why not?
How to Get to Japan House London
Japan House is conveniently located at 101-111 Kensington High Street, a short walk from the High Street Kensington Underground Station. Take the Circle or District line to the station, exit, turn right, and you’ll see Japan House on your right in less than five minutes.
For those coming by bus, the following routes stop near Japan House: 9, 23, 27, and 52. If you prefer to cycle, there are bike docking stations nearby as well.
If you’re driving, be aware that parking around High Street Kensington can be limited, so it’s best to use public transport. However, there are a few paid parking lots in the vicinity if needed.
Other Useful Information
Regular Exhibitions and Events: Japan House London frequently hosts a variety of exhibitions, talks, and learning experiences that delve deeper into Japanese culture, art, and cuisine. It’s a great idea to check their website regularly for upcoming events to enrich your visit.
Library and Travel Section: The venue also features a well-curated library and travel section, providing valuable resources and assistance for anyone planning a trip to Japan. Whether you’re looking for travel tips or cultural insights, you’ll find plenty of information to advise you on your journey.
Restroom Facilities: Need a break? Japan House offers unique restroom facilities, including Japanese toilets with heated seats and all the innovative features you might expect. It’s definitely an experience in itself!