Ramen Museum

Ramen was introduced to Japan from China. That we all probably know. What we probably won't know, we can find out at the Ramen Museum. It's in Shin-Yokohama.

There're several versions of ramen - different soups. The familiar ones are Shoyu (soya sauce), Miso (bean paste), Tonkotsu (pig bones) and Shio (Salt). For each there're variations, notably in the different prefectures throughout Japan.

Ever noticed that miso ramen is almost always garnished with corn and bean sprouts, shoyu always with bamboo shoots, and tonkotsu usually with pickled ginger?

If you like trivia, this is it. The museum gives a full history of ramen (including instant noodles), and even has a collection of artefacts (bowls, spoons etc.) from the best ramen shops in Japan.

The museum also features several ramen outlets that are branches of some of these 'top shops'. Sampler sizes are available at all the outlets there, so you can taste all of them at one go if you want.

More info, including instructions on how to get there, over here -
http://www.japan-guide.com/e/e3202.html

Popcorns in Tokyo Disney Resort

Watch out for the different flavors. There's caramel (my fav), chocolate, etc. There's curry flavor too! But give the honey flavor a miss - after a while you'll feel like puking.

There're many popcorn stores, and each store uses a different bucket for the popcorns. There're many designs - Mickey, Donald, Goofy etc. and the designs change every season. Walk around a bit to find one that you like best.

You can refill your bucket too, once you run out of popcorn.

I have quite a lot to write about Tokyo Disney Resort.

Will try to do it soon, maybe. (I miss this kind of non-committal statement. Bosses don't allow it in the office.)

Meanwhile, to have an idea of what the buckets look like, google "Disneyland popcorn bucket".