My views do not necessarily reflect the views of my employer.
May 2024
I wasn’t really sure where Sakata was, and I didn’t have a lot of time to explore, but I had never been to Sakata so I was determined to go outside anyway. I gathered my supplies to go ashore and when I got to the gangway I discovered that it was raining. Security insisted that I go back to my cabin and prepare myself for the weather, so even though I didn’t have to, I humored them and complied. The second time I approached the gangway, I ran into Hiroshi who was also heading outside. There was a shuttle bus into town which seemed like more of a commitment than either of us were willing to take so we decided to check out the pop up stands that the locals had set up right by the ship.
While everything was completely foreign to me, this was a place that Hiroshi hadn’t been to before, so he was able to recognize which things were unique to this particular place. I was drawn in by some snacks that most closely resemble what I know as rice cakes – puffed rice stuck together. After trying a few different flavors I bought the chocolate flavor and the traditional flavor (which tasted like brown sugar). Hiroshi was excited about the dumplings, so we both got some to take back to the ship. There were some traditional Japanese toys for sale. Then we came across a tent that was offering free soup.
Really? Free Soup?!
Once it cooled down a little, it was delicious.
They were also offering free drinks. We were happy to take a survey and share our opinion in exchange.
There are often tents with local food and souvenirs right off the ship, but this experience was particularly delightful. Considering that the food is included on the ship it surprises me how exciting I find the offer of free food. Plus it was fun to get to hang out with Hiroshi.