Ep. 54: Yamaoka crafts traditional kamaboko to lift Mr. Date’s spirits for the New Year celebration

54

Amaoka’s elderly acquaintance, Mr. Date, the head of the Edo firemen, remains depressed and isolated because his preferred kamaboko paste shop has closed. He refuses to eat other brands, prompting Yamaoka to attempt cheering him up. After finding commercial options unappealing due to artificial flavors and polyphosphates, Yamaoka prepares homemade kamaboko using traditional methods. This effort allows Mr. Date to enjoy authentic Edokko zoni and regain his vitality. Shortly thereafter, he attends the Dezomeshiki, an annual event showcasing both modern and Edo period firefighting techniques, marking a return to his active life.