IWAKUNI, Japan -- Traveling down Japanese streets, two vans being guided by Single Marine Program staff steadily advanced on their destination. Signs in kanji could be seen every few miles, directing the drivers towards their goal.
The destination for this trip was the Sanzoku, or how it is more commonly known by station residents, the “Chicken Shack.”
“Sanzoku is one of the only places in Japan you can go to which has such an authentic kind of eating environment,” said Cpl. Daniel E. Fry, Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron 12 aviation equipment calibrator and SMP operations assistant. “The samurai armor and the structure of the building are very old. You can’t find wood like what is used in the Sanzoku anymore.”
Approximately 12 Marines, more than half from a squadron on the unit deployment program, participated in the trip to Sanzoku held by the SMP here Feb. 14.
“I haven’t been out in town very many times, but the times I have it’s been through the SMP program,” said Cpl. Miguel H. Rivera, Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron 11 aviation technician. “The SMP is really welcoming. It’s a really nice environment to be around and the staff is really polite. I’ve really enjoyed it.”
The Chicken Shack is famously known for its sanzoku yaki, better known as chicken on a stick. Along with the sanzoku yaki, the Chicken Shack also offers gyoza, rice, udon noodles and many other traditional Japanese foods.
“Sanzoku gives the Marines a traditional Japanese meal,” said Fry. “It’s like going to a renaissance festival back in the states. You don’t just go there to eat, but you learn about the culture as well.”
Sanzoku, literally translated as “Bandit” in Japanese, has built such a strong reputation not just from its acclaimed delicious food, but for the entrancing environment to which the humble yet beautifully adorned area provides.
“Every time I go out in town, I notice how the Japanese treat people,” said Rivera.“They’re so humble and polite. I really enjoy the way the Japanese people are and their culture, just how polite and welcoming they are. It’s nice because you don’t really expect it.”
In between the actual restaurant and the parking lot, shops are set up, offering visitors an opportunity to take a little piece of Sanzoku home with them.