Interview with Kawahara Ryo of Bukkake Udon Kawahara
Originally, Bukkake Udon Kawahara was opened by the owner Kawahara Yukio and his wife Tsuyako.
Since April 2019, his son Kawahara Ryo has joined the shop, having made the decision to take over the business.
We spoke with Kawahara Ryo of Bukkake Udon Kawahara.
The circumstances leading to the reopening after the July 2018 heavy rain disaster
Kawahara was affected by the July 2018 heavy rain disaster, but was one of the first businesses in the Mabi area to reopen. Can you tell us about the reasons and circumstances that led to the early reopening?
Kawahara
When the disaster occurred, not only the shop but also my home in the Okada area was affected.
As a result, we evacuated, but the evacuation site was a company located in the mountains of northern Mabi-cho.
The employees of that company were regular customers at our shop.
During the evacuation, my father (Yukio) was told by the employees, “We really want you to reopen.”
Hearing that, my father decided to reopen the shop while in evacuation.
In fact, since our family and relatives live in other areas like Tokyo, my father was also considering moving closer to them to run the shop.
However, his desire to contribute to the affected local area and support the recovery grew stronger, and he decided to continue running the shop in Mabi-cho.
Then, 2 to 3 days after the river water receded, we finished cleaning up the affected shop.
To reopen quickly, we immediately ordered renovation work and discussed equipment orders right after the cleanup.
It was tough to progress with both the reopening of the shop and the restoration of our home at the same time, but I worked hard with the desire to support the local area that is striving for recovery.
The reasons for deciding to take over the shop
Ryo, you decided to take over the shop and quit your previous job to help out. What led you to that decision?
Kawahara
I think it was good that we were able to reopen the shop safely.
However, this reopening has left my parents with a significant financial burden.
My parents seemed to think that the shop should end with one generation, but considering their age, the financial burden is quite heavy.
So, I thought I would take over the shop and support them.
Also, after reopening, when customers came to the shop and tearfully said, “I’m so glad you reopened,” or smiled with joy, it made me feel stronger about wanting to keep this shop, which was also a reason for my decision to take over.
What I have felt since starting to work at the shop
Ryo, this is your first experience in the food service industry. Have you found anything good or challenging?
Kawahara
My previous job was in sales at an insurance agency, and this is my first time in the food service industry.
However, since I have been watching my parents work closely since I was little and helping out at the shop, I don’t find it particularly tough.
On the contrary, I feel that I enjoy my daily work.
That said, making the udon noodles and preparing the dashi (broth) are new to me.
However, thanks to the recipes my father created, I am able to learn smoothly.
However, mastering the noodle-making technique takes time, so I still have a lot to learn.
Also, through this disaster and interactions with customers, I have come to realize the importance of connections with people at a young age.
What does your daily work routine look like?
Kawahara
If all goes well, I start preparing around 6:30 in the morning.
After waking up, I immediately come to the shop, which is about a 5-minute drive from my home, to start preparing.
Preparation usually wraps up around 9 to 10 a.m.
Then I return home for a break and do some household chores, and come back to the shop again before the 11 a.m. opening to prepare for opening.
During the day, we operate continuously until the evening.
After closing, it can take about an hour for closing work, especially if it’s a long day, sometimes going past 8 p.m.
Future prospects
Please share your future prospects for the shop and what you would like to try.
Kawahara
Since I started working at the shop, I have been busier than I expected, and honestly, I am currently doing my best just to keep up with the work.
So, first, I want to quickly learn and be able to handle my parents' work.
Conclusion
Kawahara has been beloved in the community for over 25 years, but was affected by the heavy rain disaster.
However, it reopened in just 3 months.
I remember feeling happy to hear about the reopening of a shop that I have a personal connection to.
Through the interview, I was able to learn about Kawahara's feelings for the local area and the circumstances behind the quick reopening.
With Ryo's youthful energy added to the decision to take over the shop, I look forward to the future of Kawahara, which is loved in the local area.
▼In May 2021, we relocated and built a new store for a fresh start!
