Crumbs to Crunch

Okinawa is one of Japan's best holiday destinations. With its beautiful beaches, interesting history and tropical weather, it is in many ways the perfect getaway. However, for me there is one important thing that trumps all these other considerations when deciding where to go on holiday: what delicious local delicacies can I try? Okinawa's food reflects the mix of cultures that effected this group of islands far from the rest of Japan. From the American influence that created Taco Rice, or the Chinese influence on Okinawan Soba, there are many things that you can try in Okinawa that are completely different to the food from the rest of Japan. Of course, I am always most insterested in the sweets, so it's no wonder that I've become a big fan of Sata Andagi. Sata Andagi are deep fried buns very similar to ones found in Chinese cuisine. They are a little tougher than regular donuts, with a golden exterior and a cake-y interior. The name comes from the words 'sugar&

Japan is  well known for its cute characters, delicious treats and famous anime. There's one bakery that combines all these things together to create perhaps the most Japanese snack ever: The Totoro Cream puff. Totoro is one of Studio Ghibli's most famous characters. He first appeared in the 1988 film 'My Neighbour Totoro' and charmed the world with his cuteness. The owner of Shiro-Hige's Cream Puff Factory  is actually the sister in law of the director of the movie, Miyazaki Hayao. This charming little Tokyo bakery has a whimsical feel, partially hidden away down a small road and surrounded by lots of trees. The interior design is full of wood and warm colours, so its a lovely and cozy place to enjoy some treats. The stars of the show are of course the cream puffs. The flavours change depending on the month, so you can check what they'll be serving when you visit here .  We tried a chocolate cream and a caramel banana cream flavoured Totoro. You

Are you a fan of apple pie? If you are, then Hirosaki might just be the place for you! Hirosaki is in Aomori, a prefecture in the Tohoku region in the north of Japan. Aomori is famous for its delicious apples, and nowhere is this fruit more greatly celebrated than in the city of Hirosaki. There are over 50 shops in the town selling different types of apple pie. With so many options, it can seem overwhelming. How can you possibly find the perfect pie for you?! Well, the answer is simple. All you need is the Apple pie map !  Not only does the map tell you all the different locations for pie shops and bakeries, it also rates each pie on its sweetness, sourness and amount of cinnamon. My personal favourite is  スリーブリッヂ or Three Bridge, a cute little bakery near Hirosaki station. Their pie is rated 3/5 for sweetness and sourness. But don't take my word for it, head to Hirosaki and do your own research! There's plenty of pies to enjoy and beautiful sites in Hirosaki. Why