While cherry blossoms get all the glory when it comes to heralding the arrival of Spring, modest blooming buds of ume (plum blossoms) have been held in high regard here in Japan and are celebrated by the ume matsuri, the plum blossom festivals, all around the country.

Looking for something to do on a chilly day, a stop at the local batting cage was the perfect way to spend an afternoon in the warm indoors while still being active.

It’s lunchtime and you’re looking for something quick and cheap to eat. But you have your eyes and mind set on either a big bowl of noodles, a hamburger, or curry and rice.