WiFi with that Set?

A couple interesting notes on fast food in Japan. At McDonalds you will always be greeted with "Good Morning," or "Good Afternoon." Never in the typical Japanese greeting. You will always be asked if the food is "To Go" at any fast food place, and a "Combo," sandwich, fries and drink are called a "set." It really lends a more retail experience to the whole fast food thing. I mean you buy a set of earrings, glasses, dishes. You don't typically think of buying a set of food. Is it just me? So the photo is a really cool McDonalds in Kyoto, you can slide into your own little cubby with electrical outlet and wifi. Free wifi is still the norm in Japan even though it has almost completely vanished from the US. Oh yeah and a big crossed arms for leaving a tip... never leave a tip! 

Caramel, Salt & Butter!

Finally! All three in one drink. Yes, really! The first thing everyone asks is "what does it taste like?" It tastes exactly like what it says. Very rich and creamy, almost too rich, all this and a very slimming 76kcals. Thanks Kirin! No really it is too much. You literally can only drink about half the serving. d

Seen in Tokyo 3

The image on the left was taken last year and I was thrilled to see that this year they had kept the tradition. Two hand-drawn signs in the window of a very small local bar 2 blocks from the Shinagawa Station. Last years image (left) beckons you into the bar with promises of bikini clad women begging you to take a beer! This years version is a little more more discrete? Maybe she is holding an ice cold beer for you. You'll just have to come in and find out. d 

What I am eating.

OK, so I am almost at the 5 weeks mark and I really cannot bring myself to eat any more Japanese food. I know that many people, especially the Japanese will tell you that Japan is a foodie nation. But in my humble opinion, most of the food is bland with no real flavor, vaguely fishy and has a weird texture that makes it hard to eat. Yes the sushi is great! But now, 5 weeks later I find myself walking through some of the most beautiful food markets, not able to find anything I WANT to eat. So I am now down to eating breakfast here at the Bureau and then living off Choco-cro (see picture). Yes, each trip to Japan has its fascinations and this year it is Choco-cro. A croissant wrapped chocolate bar, baked and served warm. It really is great, especially when you cannot eat one more fishy, cold bowls of soba.