"Volumetrics" may be something used by dietitians in order to determine what can make someone feel the fullest while ingesting the fewest calories, but if you're going to Japan, you'll need to know something about "volume-metrics" if you are going to have a successful stay. Since Japan is on the metric system, you'll need to know something about metric volume conversion, either by using a volume conversion chart or a calculator. About Shakkanho Shakkanho is the system of measurement used in Japan prior to that nation's adoption of the metric system in 1924. For twelve centuries prior to that, the shakkanho system was standard - and in fact is still used by realtors, carpenters and the rice wine industry. If you enjoy warm butterscotch, you'll find the taste of sake, the traditional Japanese rice wine pleasing. This is a good place to return to the subject of metric volume conversion, because although sake is still sold and measured by the sho, it's measured in liters and centiliters. By using a volume conversion chart you'll notice that a sho of sake is 1.8 liters - just slightly larger than most standard wine bottles in Western countries. You can use your volume conversion table to figure out the proper serving size, which is 1/10th of the bottle, or 180 milliliters - about the size of a shot glass. Going Metric As you can see, there's nothing difficult about the conversion of units; volume measurements in the metric system are always based on multiples and divisors of ten. So if a milliliter is 1/1000th of a liter, a centiliter is 1/100th and a deciliter is 1/10th. Consulting your volume conversion table, you'll see that ten liters equal a decaliter, 100 liters equal a hectoliter (about the size of a beer keg or the gas tank on a large truck or SUV) and 1000 liters - just enough to fill a traditional Japanese bath or a hot tub - is a kiloliter. For all practical purposes however, your volume conversions will be limited to liters and centiliters. Where To Use It Except for sake, all liquids - beverages, medications, chemicals and liquid fuels - are sold by the liter. If you are driving a rental car and must buy fuel, a volume conversion table will be helpful in determining your rate of fuel consumption. If you're buying soft drinks or beer, however, you'll find most bottles are measured in centiliters. It's helpful to think of a liter as being approximately one quart when determining the proper conversion of units. Volume measurements like these are not difficult when this is kept in mind. Susan Slobac has been a home improvement and appliance professional for many years. She is featured in many publications as being an expert in appliances such as air conditioners, portable air conditioners and home appliances. |
