Returning to the British Isles

Returning to the British Isles

In the midst of my Japan adventure, I returned to London for an all important appointment.  And no, I’m not getting married, it much more important than that.  I had a date with the the UK Border Agency to renew my visa. I know you 

Hakodate – Samurai, castles and cheesecake

Hakodate – Samurai, castles and cheesecake

So, after we left our big mouthed (in many senses of that word) friend in a comatose state with the grannies in the park, we went off to see the castle. The star shape wasn’t just for aesthetics.  It was actually designed so that any attacker 

Hokadate – fish, pork and touristy things

Hokadate – fish, pork and touristy things

So on our second day in Hokdate it was time to do some cultural activities like any good tourist. Breakfast was at the nearby fish market. These are not fake.  That is a real crab leg.   Nom nom. And they just get bigger and 

Hakodate – Door to Hokkaido

Hakodate – Door to Hokkaido

So after our scrumptious crab meal in Sapporo we hopped onto the train to Hakodate. What’s so special about Hakodate, why visit?  It was the first post opened up to the foreign powers after Perry’s black ships arrived.  It also used to be the biggest city 

Hokkaido

Hokkaido

So off onto my first Japan trip. Hokkaido! And like all good trips, it starts with a nap.  On the way from New Chitose airport to Sapporo.  On our way to a very special appointment. Ramen This is the signature Sapporo ramen.  Corn and butter