Report 12 Photos

I was a bit concerned about the food in Japan prior to my departure. A few of last year's participants had informed me that they had lost weight while in Japan because they did not receive much food at each meal and the food did not appeal to them. As I am known to have a hearty appetite, I was concerned so, although my suitcases were filled to the brims, I managed to squeeze a jar of peanutbutter, a few candy bars and raisins into them. To my surprise, even though I did not always know what I was eating, I enjoyed almost every meal, and I was served plenty (except we almost never received dessert). On the fourth of July (our only free day in Ofunato), a party from the Ofunato group decided to head to a local beach. (Not to worry, Mom, I was bathed in sun protective lotion.)Since peanutbutter crackers are a staple at the beach, I brought the peanutbutter along with me. Little did I know that others had bought Japanese peanutbutter (which is a bit runny) for this occasion. I was accused of having hoarded my American peanutbutter. (Good thing they didn't find out about the candy bars I had packed.)

Cafes which serve croissants for breakfast can be found in the cities.

Plastic food is displayed in the windows of some restaurants.

This traditional Japanese breakfast included rice, fish and pickled veggies.

My friend Linda brought Lyle the crocodile throughout Japan. Here he is eating lunch from a lunchbox