EATS N EATS OF JAPAN!!

Food is seriously the only way to kick off a journey in Japan. Known for their beautiful cherry blossoms and unique-to-the-eye culture, I bet you wouldn't expect me to start off my journal of Japan with food. But well.. here we are! I'll introduce you to a few of my favorite eats during my 13-day trip to Japan <3

First thing to know about Japan: They love their strawberries!!

I'm not even kidding. But why would Japan love strawberries so much that they incorporate them into almost every treat? 

Here's why: The nutritional value and variety of strawberries in Japan make them such a special fruit! Not only is Japan the 7th largest cultivator of strawberries in the World, but they are often celebrated and eaten at festivals and outings EVERYWHERE!! 

(And they're delicious.) 

Unfortunately, there is one thing to be aware of when buying strawberries, or any fruit in Japan. They are very expensive. Walking around Japan, it is not uncommon for you to find limited access to fresh fruits that aren't included in a sweet treat. This is because the harvesting of fruit in the country is very rare, making it harder to obtain and sell. This although shouldn't prevent you from eating the delicious fruits sold in Japan! You only live once, so experience everything you can!

Second thing to know: The bay in Japan isn't something to take lightly!

When visiting the ocean in Japan, I was surprised to see the diversity of restaurants on the dock. Growing up around reggae, hearing and seeing such a culture around me was a shock! It was yet another thing that proved the versatility of culture when traveling to different parts of the country. 

Now, let's go back to food!

Here's a challenge: Can you convert the food prices in this photo from yen to dollars? When you do so, come back and tell me if you're surprised at how cheap it is!!

Seriously, $200 for a hotdog (without the bun) is something I've yet to see as a Californian, lol. 

Anyways, when planning your trip to Japan, don't forget to stop at Ehukai Beach!

I might be a little weird, but a soft serve and clam chowder is a go-to combo.

Now finally, last but not least, my favorite lunch during my 12-hour days traveling Japan. ONIGIRI!!

Yummy,Yummy Onigiri!! I can credit this food as my #1 supporter during the long days walking and traveling the city. Somehow, they are so small (around hand-size), but perfectly fitting and keep me full! If you don't know already, Onigiri is a seaweed-wrapped ball or triangle of rice, with is filled with different fillings such as tuna, salmon, tofu, and more. 

Where to find them? Every gas station in Japan has these! It must be a household food, because these seemed to be stacked in every Family Mart of 7-11 I went to. 

My ending tip: Do not limit yourself to foods when going to Japan! The variety of flavors, cuisine, and sweet treats there amazed me, and I'm sure it will for you to! From huge restaurants to small pop up stands on the streets of Kamakura, food is one of the most memorable aspects during my travels in this country, so EAT UP!!