"Anaba" (穴場) is a wonderful Japanese word that succinctly sums up the rather more clumsy English phrase "a good place not many people know about." From today, Kumamoto International is adding an Anaba Desk. Anyone who has lived for any length of time in Kumamoto has undoubtedly stumbled upon tiny shops that, for whatever reason - items provided, service, atmosphere, fascinating proprietors - are well worth visiting. We invite all of our readers to message us with your discoveries so that we may share them with others. You will be rewarded with recognition and KumaBit Coins*.
If you're female, you can stop reading now. If you're male, you'll notice that females sometimes suggest you get your hair cut, gently at first but with greater urgency as your hirsuteness progresses. Here is my anaba suggestion for the day.
The barbershop I've patronized since coming to Kumamoto over 20 years ago used to be called El Dorado; after its owner died of old age, it moved from its ancient digs to a newer location and for some reason changed its name to "Be Happy," but they brought with them their barber chairs, the kind you father remembers from when he was a kid. Awesome barbers, but don't panic at their appearance: older, and with terrible haircuts themselves; though their sight has faded a bit, they know what you want and, having grown accustomed to my curly mop, can now handle gaijin guy hair of most any consistency. They are very thorough, shaving your neck and even the hairs off your ears with a straightedge razor. The atmosphere is very guy-friendly: NHK radio playing, conversation only at the bequest of the customer, very pragmatic. Their fee used to be 1,000 yen but was raised to 1,200 yen a few years ago. No tipping - this is Japan - but I always give them a case of Asahi before New Years.
They are located on Suizenji Ekimae Dori just off Densha Dori. Tell them the gaijin sent you and they'll probably understand. - William
*Note: KumaBit Coins are something we made up and have no value.
