If you ever go to Otaru in Hokkaido, make sure you try an ice cold Otaru beer and drink it from a handmade glass made in Otaru.    

I would go back there just to eat.  This potato salad was delicious.

And the deep fried tofu with sesame sauce sizzling on a hot stone.  

I love old Japan.  

Checking the waves on a beach full of snow was interesting.  My hands were freezing, my ears were burning, and my bones were shivering.  How do people surf in Hokkaido?  I respect cold water surfers because it’s something I couldn’t do.  I don’t think anyone from Hawaii can surf in these conditions.

Boots:  1331

Good morning 4:45am.
Ala Moana waist high and good.
Diamond Head shoulder high and fun.
Trade winds down to 20mph.
Sunny and warm.
Going to the sea.
Have a wonderful day!

Spent time trying to sew.  No, I’ve never taken a sewing class but I clearly remember my Grandma on her sewing machine all the time making clothes for me and my siblings.  She practically made everything we wore as a kid.  So I’d give it a try.

I could barely thread the needle, I poked myself a few times, then I started to get really dizzy.  So I stopped and took a break.

The ocean fixes everything.  I was dizzy and frustrated but once I jumped into the ocean, I was as clear and calm as can be.  Diamond Head was so fun!  Sharing some waves with a few of my friends.  Surfing is much better than sewing.  

Spending a couple days in Otaru was one of the highlights of my trip. I heard it was really touristy there but there was hardly anyone around.  The streets were empty so I just walked around exploring the hidden alleys and eateries.  

From far away, you could hear this beautiful piano music.  I just followed the melody and ended up right here.  It’s a street piano so anyone can just go up and play.  I sat on the table right in front and enjoyed this for a while.  It was really beautiful.

This is a little town I will definitely visit again.  The local vibe, the musical boxes, the Otaru glass, and all the delicious food everywhere you go.  

I went to Times today to buy rice.  I passed by the snack section and OMG, it was so expensive!  That’s 2,700 yen!  Crazy!

No wonder many Japanese don’t come to Hawaii anymore.  This is the most expensive Hawaii has ever been.