Tenzushi Kyomachi, the most elusive sushi seat in Japan is found in the city of Kokura on Japan’s southern island of Kyushu. Gourmands from around the world jostle for one of just five seats at Tenzushi, which serves unparalleled cuisine described by the chef as “sushi by addition”. Inheriting the style forged by his father, the chef honors those flavors while constantly experimenting to take it to the next level. Behind his somewhat foreboding appearance, Chef Amano has a warm heart, greeting every customer and satiating their appetites for his unbelievable sushi.

A line of chairs by the entrance signifies the chef’s kindness – he would never want guests to wait outside. Passing through a beautiful draped noren adorning the entrance, your attention is drawn to the gentle sound of trickling water. As you are led to your seat, you are certain to be shocked by the scale of Tenzushi. Taking your place at one of just five counter seats is rather intimidating, but the chef’s smile sets you entirely at ease.

Sushi is best enjoyed with your hands, so beneath the two-tiered solid hinoki counter is running water with which to wash your hands and ready for the meal. The trickling sound combined with the Sarah Brightman soundtrack makes for a strangely comfortable ambience. Behind the chef, the black slate wall is accented by the characters for Tenzushi, which have been carved into a stately wooden signboard and filled with glistening gold leaf. Combined with a sparkling silver seaweed case, the grill, chopping boards, pots of salt and kabosu green citrus orbs, the scene looks like a still-life painting by Pissarro or Cézanne. It’s time to escape reality for moment and immerse yourself in that scene.