Elevate Your Daily Life with Rose Cordial (Rose Syrup) from Malaysian Supermarkets

Rose Juice Memories

During a home stay in China as part of a government-sponsored program, my host mother once treated me to her homemade rose juice. It was incredibly delicious, but finding a ready-made version to enjoy in Japan proved to be quite a challenge.

Since arriving in Malaysia, I stumbled upon a similar product at a supermarket – Star Jus' Kordial Ros, essentially rose cordial. It's a concentrated, sweet rose syrup that you dilute with water or soda.

Quirkiness Factor...

I'd be lying if I said it didn't look a bit peculiar.

While the larger bottle (I believe it's a 2L bottle) is ubiquitous, I found a slightly smaller one during a recent trip to AEON and decided to give it a try.

When diluted with water, it doesn't quite match the homemade rose juice I had in China but it's surprisingly good. Since I've started living a life where English is the primary language and Malaysia's intense daytime sun often leaves me feeling like I need a sugar boost, this seems like a nice way to satisfy that sweet craving.

My Personal favorite – Rose Milk!

It almost looks like strawberry milk but it's actually rose milk. As I mentioned in a previous blog, I bought a large bottle of milk that reminded me of what I saw in New Zealand, so I need to consume it beyond just breakfast. Having it in the evening or during my homework sessions is perfect.

However, despite buying the smaller-sized bottle, it seems never-ending, and I'm still exploring other ways to use it up.

So, if you ever come across these rose cordials in a Malaysian supermarket, I encourage you to give them a try – they might just add a unique and delightful twist to your daily life!

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Surprising Questions Abroad: 'Do You Prefer Beef, Chicken, or Pork?

Common Questions in Malaysia

When dining out in Malaysia, you'll often be asked about your food preferences. Personally, the only thing I need to be careful about in Malaysia is that I'm not a fan of mangoes (which surprises people and I feel sorry about it). Other than that, I can eat pretty much anything, so I usually answer based on my mood—whether I want something rich or something light.

However, apart from the fact that mangoes are a no-go for me in Malaysia, which might be a personal preference, there's another question I frequently get asked, which isn't common in Japan.

Preferences for Meat

A common question I get asked is about meat preferences. They often ask which type of meat I prefer. Malaysia has a significant Muslim population, and Muslims don't consume pork, but you can find pork dishes in Chinese cuisine. Besides that, Malaysia offers various chicken and beef dishes, and you can also find lamb.

In Japan, I've never really been asked about my meat preferences. Even if I've mentioned that I prefer fish when asked whether I prefer meat or fish, I've never been questioned further about which type of meat I like.

If I were to specify, I tend to eat pork more often in Japan, mainly because it's often affordable at the supermarkets I frequent. In Malaysia, requesting pork might limit my options depending on the place, and I'm concerned about that.

To be honest, I enjoy all types of meat without any particular preference. So, when faced with this question, I often preface my response with, "I like them all, but…" and then I usually end up saying I like beef. It's probably because I find steak and similar dishes exciting.

As a result, one of my friends now remembers my preference and excitedly points out when there's a beef menu item. While it's heartwarming that my friend remembers, I often end up ordering chicken dishes, thinking, "Well, I can eat chicken, and it's usually cheaper."

When I was a high school student doing a homestay in New Zealand, I remember being asked if I ate lamb, but I don't recall being questioned about my meat preferences. (Interestingly, the family I stayed with served lamb almost every day, so I wonder what would have happened if I had said I couldn't eat it.)

I'm not sure if these questions are region-specific or not, but if you're planning to stay in Malaysia or abroad in the future, you might need to be prepared to answer questions about your meat preferences, as it could be a topic of conversation!

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Sold at Room Temperature?! Surprising Milk and Dairy Situation in Malaysia

Dairy Situation in Malaysia

When shopping for groceries at supermarkets in Malaysia, you can generally get items at prices lower than those in Japan. Even when opting for slightly upscale supermarkets like Seijo Ishii, it doesn't put a significant strain on your wallet.

However, if you're buying dairy products like milk, cheese, and yogurt, you'll find that they are often priced similarly to or slightly higher than in Japan. I sometimes have cereal for breakfast, so I keep milk at home, but it still feels a bit expensive compared to other food items.

The reason dairy products are costly in Malaysia primarily stems from their reliance on imports. As a local resident mentioned recently, Malaysia's climate is too hot for cows to produce milk effectively, so they import milk from New Zealand and Australia.

Milk Sold at Room Temperature!?

In Malaysian supermarkets, you can find milk sold at room temperature. It's called "Long Life" milk, which is filled into containers after being heat-treated, allowing it to have a shelf life of up to six months.

This might be surprising for those accustomed to Japanese standards, where milk is typically refrigerated, and you start wondering if it's still safe after a week. Apparently, in some countries, long-life milk is more popular than refrigerated milk.

Reading blogs from expatriates, it seems that refrigerated milk sometimes goes bad during transport, so while it may not have the same flavor as Japanese milk, some people prefer long-life milk.

I haven't made a firm choice yet, as I usually just buy from supermarkets or convenience stores, but I wonder which side I'll lean towards over the course of the year.

Nostalgic New Zealand Milk

I primarily bought milk from convenience stores, and here, I found a brand called "Fernleaf" from New Zealand, which also sells yogurt in the same aisle.

On the packaging, behind cows that, according to the illustration, don't thrive in Malaysia's climate, there's a mountain that might be Mt. Fuji!? It seems to be a brand targeting Southeast Asia.

Today, for the first time, I went to a slightly more upscale supermarket, similar to Seijo Ishii, in search of milk. I was looking for something specific: this huge plastic container (2 liters) of milk! I bought it without much thought, so I'm not sure if it's the delicious one! 

Back in high school, when I went for a homestay in New Zealand, I used to drink milk like this every day at my host family's home. (Perhaps the ones in New Zealand were even larger?)

I remember being dropped off alone in front of a local mini-supermarket in New Zealand once and asked to do some shopping. At that time, my English skills weren't as good, and I couldn't communicate well with the store clerk, who was unfriendly and didn't understand my English. I was quite unsure about how to handle the situation.

To think that I'm now casually going to supermarkets abroad and doing my shopping, just like when I bought milk back then, is quite nostalgic.

Regarding recycling, Malaysia doesn't seem to have embraced recycling concepts as much as Japan. Still, these plastic containers can be recycled just like PET bottles.

I still have some milk in cartons, so I won't provide a taste report, but this larger bottle size comes in handy for stocking up on heavy milk. I need to make sure I consume it before it goes bad!

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A Quest for "Stem Wakame" in a Foreign Land, Malaysia

My Beloved Snack: Stem Wakame

I absolutely adore stem wakame, a popular Japanese snack. In fact, I have a habit of keeping a big bag of stem wakame, a type of seaweed snack, on hand at all times in Japan. Before I realize it, the bag is empty; that's how much I enjoy it.

Over the past year, the burning question for me was whether I could survive without stem wakame or at least other seaweed snacks like regular wakame or konbu (kelp). To be honest, I can do without natto rice or tamago kake gohan (rice with raw egg) for a year (although I'm not sure about raw eggs, but I did find natto in the supermarket). However, stem wakame is absolutely essential in my life. I've even taken it with me when I went to China for a Cabinet Office project and during a homestay in New Zealand.

I did bring some stock from Japan just to be safe, but after spending a few days in Malaysia, I explored some stores to see if I could find any stem wakame. Here's my report.

Don Don Donki at Lot 10, Bukit Bintang

There's a Don Don Donki (Don Quijote) at Lot 10 in Bukit Bintang. By the way, everyone here says "Roten," but the guidebook "Lonely Planet" writes it as "Lot 10." Maybe "Roten" is how locals refer to it, and it seems more authentic (laughs).

First, I checked if they had the familiar stem wakame here.

They had many Japanese snacks and cosmetics, including dried squid and peanut snacks, but stem wakame was nowhere to be found. Perhaps it contains alcohol or something?

Since I had already made the trip to the store, I ended up buying facial cleanser, which can also serve as a makeup remover.

This store has self-checkout counters, which was quite convenient as I could take my time with the payment. However, when I was unsure which payment method to use among various options for card payment, one of the store staff came over and helped me complete the transaction.

Perhaps it's because this place is a tourist area, or maybe it's because it's a Japanese store, or possibly because I seemed a bit clueless. Many times in Malaysia, I encountered shop staff who were either very cool or laid-back, so this interaction stood out to me.

Seven-Eleven and FamilyMart

In Malaysia, there are also Seven-Eleven and FamilyMart stores.

At Seven-Eleven, they had Disney's 100th-anniversary merchandise displayed not long ago, making it quite tempting.

It seemed like FamilyMart had more Japanese products or international versions of Japanese products. I also searched here, but no luck.

Daiso at LaLaPort Mall, Bukit Bintang

Next, I headed to Daiso in Lulu Mall. While Daiso in Japan is known for its 100-yen products (plus tax), here it's RM5.90. I usually approximate with the sense of around RM1 = 30 yen (it's actually a bit cheaper, I think), so it turns out Daiso is a bit more expensive than in Japan.

But, Daiso has handy items that sometimes make you think, "I want that!" So, I ended up shopping there to get some essentials for daily life.

Japanese Daiso stores usually don't carry snacks, but this one had a section with Japanese snacks and food items.

And there it was! "Miyako konbu" series of "Oshaburi Konbu (Hamakaze)." It's not exactly stem wakame, but Oshaburi Konbu is another favorite snack of mine. I can easily finish a bag of these in no time.

So, the problem of wanting seaweed snacks seems to be temporarily solved. It's a bit more expensive than buying in Japan, but I'm thrilled that I can still enjoy similar snacks here.

The Quest for "Stem Wakame" Continues

While I've found seaweed snacks, I'm still on the hunt for stem wakame. It's not something I can't live without, but it would be a delightful addition to my snacks.

I haven't checked Japanese supermarkets known for their Japanese food selection yet, so I'll keep my eyes open and search for it when I have the chance.

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Delicious Non-Caffeinated Superfood "Mayanuts Coffee"

Should You Avoid Coffee During Menstruation?

It's often said that it's best to avoid caffeine during menstruation. Since coffee is a common source of daily caffeine intake, many people around me, including myself, opt for herbal teas instead of coffee during that time. Personally, I try to avoid caffeine altogether. While it may be tolerable if you regularly consume energy drinks, I choose to steer clear of those as well.

The reason why it's recommended to avoid caffeine during menstruation is because it has vasoconstrictive effects (which can help alleviate throbbing headaches for me) and diuretic properties.

While the vasoconstrictive effects can be beneficial for relieving my migraines, it also means that it impairs blood flow when I want to improve it, which can worsen menstrual cramps.

Additionally, the diuretic effect leading to frequent urination can potentially cause dehydration.

Personally, I experience severe PMS symptoms and menstrual cramps. Though I'm better at managing the pain now compared to my student days when I led a sedentary lifestyle and didn't use any painkillers, I still have to continue with my daily routine while visiting the gynecologist regularly.

Low-dose birth control pills were considered as a treatment option, but seeing my friends struggle with them and considering the good compatibility with traditional Chinese medicine, I opted for maintaining a "good feeling" through herbal remedies.

However, it doesn't mean that I completely avoid coffee. If I feel like I need it to function, I'll have a cup. But if I were to become pregnant in the future, I wouldn't be able to rely on coffee as easily. That's why I've been searching for a substitute for coffee, if there's any.

Non-Caffeinated Coffee: Is It Really That Good?

Here's where the problem lies—I'm a coffee addict. Typically, I have a cup in the morning and another when I need a drink during the day, be it from a bottle or as part of lunch. Although it's a small amount, without coffee, I feel like my life lacks excitement.

Especially when I skip my morning coffee, I tend to feel sluggish during the day, and my work efficiency drops.

Having a cup once in a while doesn't have much of an impact, so I drink it when I feel like I "need" coffee. However, if I were to become pregnant in the future, I wouldn't be able to casually drink coffee. If there's something that can replace coffee, I've been eager to find it.

This is where non-caffeinated coffee comes in.

Non-caffeinated coffee, also known as alternatives like chicory coffee or dandelion coffee, have been well-known. They contain no caffeine, making them suitable for consumption during pregnancy. They are plant-based and have minimal stimulation for the body, which has been promoted for a long time.

However, when I tried non-caffeinated coffee in the past, I found it unsatisfying. I once tried dandelion coffee during my period, looking forward to it, but it tasted like slightly stronger barley tea.

If that's the case, I'd rather have barley tea, which is cheaper. So, I gave up on non-caffeinated coffee.

When I researched other non-caffeinated coffee options, I came across reviews that mentioned they tasted similar to strong barley tea or were simply not delicious. These reviews made me lose interest, and I couldn't find any motivation to purchase them.

Tasting "Mayanuts" Discovered at Shibuya Hikarie

Then, around Valentine's Day or White Day, next to an event featuring chocolate sales at Shibuya Hikarie, there was an event showcasing fair-trade food products, mainly chocolates.

It was at that event that I was introduced to "Mayanuts."

Mayanuts refers to the edible seed of the Ramon tree, which has been used for food since the ancient Mayan civilization in Guatemala. The company that handles it in Japan named it "Mayanuts."

It is marketed as a superfood containing all essential amino acids (9 types) and 10 non-essential amino acids.

At the store, I also had the opportunity to taste cookies dusted with Mayanuts powder. However, what particularly caught my attention was the coffee-like beverage made by dissolving Mayanuts powder in hot water.

Until now, I had been troubled by the taste of non-caffeinated drinks that resembled tea. But this non-caffeinated beverage made with Mayanuts powder actually tasted like coffee.

Of course, since it's not made from coffee beans, the taste is slightly different. However, it has a pleasant bitterness, a relatively dark color, and gives me a feeling similar to drinking coffee.

Since I liked it, I bought some to try for a while and have been drinking it occasionally when I want a coffee-like drink during menstruation or at night. I find that I have fewer instances of desperately craving coffee during days when I have menstrual pain. So, I consider it a good purchase.

Continuously Searching for Available Items in Malaysia

While I can bring what I eat and drink in Japan for PMS and menstrual-related issues to Malaysia, my study abroad destination, I prefer to choose items that are readily available there. It's also a fun part of my study abroad preparations to search for these items, which will enhance my vocabulary related to the topic.

I won't be able to try them until I actually arrive there, but I enjoy searching for them as part of my study abroad preparations.

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Enjoying the Cozy Terrace at the "Peter Rabbit Cafe" in Jiyugaoka

Discovered on WeChat! Mustering up the Courage...

I stumbled upon a friend from China who is studying in Japan through the Moments feature on WeChat, and we finally met in person.

To be honest, I'm not the type to initiate plans or invite people. I tend to be more passive in my daily life.

So, for a while, I hadn't approached her, thinking, "Maybe she's come to Japan for her studies." I just couldn't gather the courage.

However, when I decided to study in Malaysia and started planning my time there, I thought, "I want to do things for others that would make me happy if I were studying abroad!"

Some might consider it meddling or be worried about it, but if it becomes bothersome or unwanted, people can always decline.

When I expressed my desire to meet with her, saying, "Since you're in Japan, it would be great to meet up!" Her response was, "Sure!" I was delighted!

Peter Rabbit Cafe

Reserved a Terrace Seat

Instead of assuming the role of a fellow international student, I wanted to go out as friends and enjoy our time together. So, I researched a few options for cafes. I don't usually frequent trendy, Instagrammable places, but I was surprised to find that there were only a few cafes that accepted reservations.

After considering my friend's preferences, we decided on the Peter Rabbit Cafe in Jiyugaoka along the Toyoko Line! The fact that we could make a reservation was a major plus point.

The cafe offers both indoor and terrace seating, and we reserved a table on the terrace. I was initially concerned about the summer heat on the terrace, but after checking Google Maps reviews, I discovered that there is a transparent cover separating the outdoor area from the terrace, ensuring effective air conditioning.

Adorable Dishes

When you think of "Peter Rabbit," you might recall the famous children's book character that even had a movie adaptation. At this cafe, you can enjoy Peter Rabbit-themed latte art and dine on meals inspired by the story.

I chose the "Sleepy Salad Plate" food menu and drink set.

In the photos, it might be hard to see, but the salad plate had dry ice that created a smoking effect, and the sound of the dry ice bubbling in the water continued. I was a bit nervous about the dry ice spilling, but the plate was designed to prevent any accidents.

While I was snapping photos for WeChat, Instagram, or my blog, my friend made a comment.

"Japanese girls really love saying 'kawaii' (cute), don't they? This is genuinely cute, so I'll say it a lot too!"

Apparently, she had noticed Japanese girls saying "kawaii" even at places that weren't particularly cute, which puzzled her.

Perhaps there's no need to casually throw around "kawaii" so much. When something is truly cute, it's worth mentioning.

Beautiful Decorations and Thoughtfulness

As expected of the Peter Rabbit Cafe, the interior is adorned with Peter Rabbit artwork, and there are flowers that give the impression of being surrounded by nature.

But what surprised me the most was when I was about to sit at my table and noticed someone already occupying it.

A rather large Peter Rabbit was sitting in my seat.

There were other Peter Rabbits waiting at other tables, but the one at my table was noticeably bigger.

I exclaimed, "There's Peter Rabbit!" and found myself in a situation where Peter Rabbit had taken over my seat. I was a bit undecided about where to sit, but since the staff didn't come to remove it, I had Peter Rabbit waiting on the table.

It reminded me of the Moomin Cafe that used to be in Korakuen Amusement Park. It seemed like they had created an atmosphere where even if you come alone, you won't feel lonely. I think it's a lovely touch.

Setting Goals for Study Abroad Life

Now, after taking a walk around the station and enjoying some shopping, I had the opportunity to hear about the experiences and minor worries of someone who is currently studying abroad. It led me to set a goal for my own study abroad life.

That goal is to "actively seek opportunities to interact in English and Chinese."

Having lived alone in Japan before, I'm somewhat accustomed to living independently, and besides attending language school, I can manage my daily life within the confines of my apartment. But I started to feel like that wouldn't be much different from living in Japan if I only interacted with Japanese media and communicated with Japanese friends through social media.

The most important thing is to actively engage in conversations with friends who speak English or Chinese. At the very least, I want to consciously immerse myself among people speaking languages other than Japanese and actively seek out multilingual environments. In my case, being more proactive is necessary because I tend to be passive.

I learned this from my friend, who shared her experience of trying part-time work to break free from a life confined to her apartment. Although we met with the intention of simply having fun, I had a lot of enjoyable conversations, and it became a catalyst for envisioning my life during study abroad.

By the way, according to her information, there are many people from Malaysia studying in China, and likewise, many Chinese students studying in Malaysia. It seems to be motivating for learning Chinese.

She also gave me a little lecture about the Chinese social media app RED (Xiaohongshu) and how it's used. Until now, I've only searched for information but didn't feel confident in using it effectively. So, while focusing on language learning, I think I'll take a look at it too.

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A Story and Souvenir Found on a Tokyo Downtown Otsuka "Neighborhood Tour" for Overseas Visitors

OMO Ranger's Neighborhood Tour

During my stay at OMO5, I participated in a local tour called the "Neighborhood Tour" led by the OMO Rangers, the staff known for their expertise in the area.

Blissful Girls' Trip in the Neighborhood: OMO5 Tokyo Otsuka produced by Hoshino Resorts

The tour was titled "Otsuka is full of charms! Neighborhood tour"（大塚の魅力が満載！大塚オタクと行くご近所巡り）

While visiting the shopping district, we had the opportunity to shop around, ask for recommended photo spots, and inquire about recommended dinner restaurants and shopping spots.

In this blog post, I would like to share my memories and the wonderful souvenirs I discovered during the tour.

1. Sen'nari Monaka Honpo

The first place we visited was Senn'nari Monaka Honpo. This shop is known for its an-butter monaka, a type of dorayaki (a traditional Japanese dessert) without the sweet bean paste filling. It is also called "Japanese Pancake" and was featured on a TV program hosted by Matsuko-DX.

As most of the products were sold out by the afternoon, I revisited the shop the next day to get some souvenirs for home.

The unique shaped monaka was adorable and heartwarming. I thought it would be a perfect farewell gift for my friends in Japan.

They kindly served tea and the monaka skins, so I took a short break there.

千成もなか本舗

2. A Spectacular Spot Where Skytree and Yamanote Line Converge

During the walk, I was introduced to a unique spot where we can enjoy the breathtaking view of Tokyo. Even though the weather was a bit gloomy that day, you could still see the beauty of the surroundings. It was the kind of place we would normally pass by without noticing, but thanks to the OMO Rangers, I got to explore it.

3. Yajima-en Tea Shop

Lastly, we visited a tea shop called Yajimaen. The shop owner, Mr. Yajima, who is a great storyteller, warmly welcomed us.

Their specialty is the Green Tea de Earl Grey, a drink made by infusing Earl Grey tea with Japanese green tea, resulting in a refreshing flavor. You can enjoy it at the OMO5 Otsuka café, and it's even available as an all-you-can-drink option during breakfast.

Since the tea bags are dry and easy to carry, they seem like a great souvenir for my friends studying abroad in Malaysia. Plus, if there are any leftovers, I can enjoy them myself.

お茶屋「矢島園」

Souvenir Dilemma for Study Abroad

I had a previous experience where I failed in choosing a gift when I gave a Daiso (a popular 100-yen store in Japan) fan to my host family in New Zealand, only to find out they already had an exquisite fan left behind by a previous Chinese exchange student.

This time, I am going to a country where there is also a Daiso, so I thought I should avoid Japanese goods from Daiso.

Besides, I have a preference for products with stories behind them.

And isn't it amazing to hear stories directly from the shopkeepers?

I'm not sure if Yajimaen sells their products on Amazon, which would be convenient even after going abroad. But I plan to buy some before leaving Japan, considering the limitations on bringing items with me and checking the import regulations.

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Unexpected Discovery at the Popular Teishoku Restaurant: A Bittersweet Experience

Unexpected Discovery at the Popular Teishoku Restaurant: A Bittersweet Experience

First Visit to the Restaurant

During my lunch break, I decided to try a new restaurant for lunch. This particular establishment was a teishoku restaurant that transformed into a lively izakaya at night.

While the surrounding fast food joints were packed, this place still had some vacant seats, possibly due to its inconspicuous entrance. Intrigued, I entered and was warmly welcomed by the friendly smile of the proprietress. Since I was dining alone, she guided me to a quiet table in the back instead of the bustling counter seats.

She kindly recommended a teishoku dish, and her warmth and friendliness instantly won me over. She was incredibly kind! So friendly!

As I listened to the conversations of other customers entering one after another, I could sense the familiarity between the regulars and the proprietress.

I also witnessed a salaryman in front of me settling the bill and being cheerfully told by the proprietress, "Don't work too hard today!" It was moments like these that made me understand why this place had so many repeat customers. Surely, delightful cuisine and exceptional service awaited.

A Slightly Disconcerting Revelation

However, I soon made some kinds of disheartening realization.

As I finished paying and prepared to leave, the proprietress called out, "Thank you as always!" It wasn't something to be overly concerned about, but it left me feeling somewhat unsettled.

I couldn't help but think, "Ah, so she treats everyone as regulars, huh?"

Moving Forward

Although the proprietress warmly welcomed me, a first-time visitor, I came to realize that her attitude was the same towards other customers as well.

It made me feel a bit lonely, but I believe that the delicious food and the proprietor's wonderful personality remain unchanged.

From now on, I hope to become a true regular customer.

Dinner with a Junior Aspiring for Graduate School! Aroma of Curry and Career Talks

First Meeting Face-to-Face!

Despite primarily interacting online due to the impact of COVID-19, I had the opportunity to meet a junior colleague aspiring for graduate school in person and have dinner together.

Strictly speaking, she was one of the high school students I met during my teaching practicum, and we had discussed career paths. However, this was the first time we had an in-depth conversation since she entered university.

Overcoming the difficult period of being unable to meet face-to-face, this occasion allowed us to discuss our shared experiences in high school and university. It became a starting point for contemplating our dreams and career paths.

Aroma of Curry

The place we chose to meet was a curry restaurant.

We discovered a common interest in spicy curry, which naturally sparked our conversation. I secretly felt relieved that it wasn't a bar since I don't consume much alcohol.

Meeting in person enabled us to convey emotions and expressions that are difficult to convey online, and despite being strangers, we quickly became friendly and couldn't stop talking.

As for myself, as mentioned in my self-introduction, I have experience attending graduate school. Although I specialized in Japanese literature, I felt that conventional research was challenging amidst the presence of exceptional students around me. Therefore, I conducted research on English translations of classical Japanese literature.

After graduating from graduate school, I did consider pursuing a doctoral program. However, due to the challenges of a career path as a humanities researcher and the ongoing existence of sexual harassment remarks towards female researchers in the university environment, I chose to pursue a job that would provide a stable income, which brings me to where I am now.

However, I have a passion for supporting young researchers. My husband is also a researcher, and by supporting his research activities, I believe I understand the difficulties young researchers face.

Because I couldn't become one myself, it is my goal to utilize my experience and knowledge to support future female researchers so they can thrive in a better environment.

What I Heard from her

From our conversation, I could sense her dedication and efforts in studying for graduate school entrance exams. I shared my past experiences and tried to provide her with advice and hints as much as possible.

Furthermore, discussing the current state of universities was a valuable experience. It turns out that a curry restaurant near where I used to go frequently has closed down.

Surprisingly, when I talked about the professor who made sexual harassment remarks or said that "women are not suitable for researchers," she mentioned that he has become considerably quieter, possibly due to health issues or recent news about sexual harassment problems. This is good news.

We enjoyed the conversation while reflecting on our past experiences. I felt that I could understand the feelings of elderly people who tend to go on long monologues since she, as my junior, listened to my stories.

However, individuals who have both a background in humanities graduate school and work experience are few, and I personally believe that being able to offer perspectives from both sides makes me a valuable presence for my juniors.

I want to avoid becoming a troublesome adult.

Aroma of Curry and Career Talks

The first face-to-face dinner with a junior aspiring for graduate school was a precious opportunity to share emotions and experiences that are difficult to convey online.

Through conversations at the curry restaurant, we were able to engage in interesting discussions about our shared hobbies and career paths.

I would like to believe that by sharing my past experiences and choices in career paths, I was able to provide my junior with some hints or advice.

In the future, I hope to broaden my perspective by listening to discussions about different career paths and experiences through interactions with diverse individuals.

I also want to consider how I can support these young researchers, especially female researchers, who continue to pursue their dreams. I'm ready to start taking action.

Blissful Tea Time♪ Exclusive Mandarin Oriental Hotel Tokyo Experience

Mandarin Oriental Hotel Tokyo

I received a gift voucher from a wedding celebration, and wanting to make the most of it by enjoying something together, we made a dinner reservation at the luxurious Mandarin Oriental Hotel Tokyo.

Dining at the Mandarin Oriental Hotel is known for its refined cuisine and high-quality service. Interestingly, perhaps due to the economic downturn or the increasing number of inbound tourists, the restaurant was filled with mostly foreign visitors (at least those not conversing in Japanese), creating an atmosphere that made us feel like we were in another country.

Now, did you know there's a secret element that makes dining here even more special?

That secret is the Mandarin Oriental Tea, an original blend called Mandarin Oriental Tea. In this blog, I would like to write about the Mandarin Oriental Tea that I encountered during my dinner at the Mandarin Oriental Hotel.

Mandarin Oriental Hotel Tokyo - "Keshiki"

Keshiki is a restaurant located on the top floor of the hotel, offering breathtaking views (keshiki) to enjoy.

When we arrived at the Mandarin Oriental Hotel for dinner, we were immediately captivated by the sophisticated interior and pleasant atmosphere. The restaurant staff welcomed us with smiles and escorted us to our window-side table, as we had requested during the reservation made over the phone. The course was already pre-booked as well.

The dishes looked something like this.

I rarely have the opportunity to enjoy such a high-end hotel course, except for when attending someone's wedding. The courses consisted of a variety of dishes, perfectly portioned and exuding a luxurious blend of Japanese and Western flavors.

Dessert time arrived, and the waiter came to take our drink order.

Among the options, what caught my attention was the Mandarin Oriental Tea, part of the special services offered by the Mandarin Oriental Hotel.

This tea is an exclusive blend made by LUPICIA, combining Chinese Fujian province's oolong tea with the citrusy aroma of bergamot. It is known for its deep flavor and delightful fragrance, spreading a pleasant sensation from the moment it touches your lips.

According to the waiter, the Mandarin Oriental Tea is not served in any other hotels or restaurants, not even at other Mandarin Oriental hotels around the world, including those in Malaysia.

In other words, this unique experience can only be enjoyed at Mandarin Oriental Hotel Tokyo.

I felt an even greater sense of luxury and indulgence.

As the tea was served, I took a sip and was mesmerized by the deliciousness of Mandarin Oriental Tea. The rich flavor of oolong tea filled my mouth, accompanied by the gentle citrusy scent of bergamot. The aftertaste was smooth and enticing, making me crave for more cups of this enchanting tea.

The tea paired perfectly with the dessert, allowing us to savor the exquisite balance.

Sipping on Mandarin Oriental Tea while enjoying the surrounding ambiance and views was truly a blissful moment.

Even the conversations with my husband, whom I usually spend time with more as friends than in a romantic setting, became even more enjoyable.

Filled with gratitude for the hospitality of Mandarin Oriental Hotel, we experienced a truly blissful time.

A Luxurious Moment

The dinner experience at Mandarin Oriental Hotel has become a wonderful memory of our wedding celebration.

Among all, the highlight was being able to enjoy the special tea, Mandarin Oriental Tea, which is exclusively available at Mandarin Oriental Hotel. It made our time even more joyous and fulfilling.

I highly recommend this unique tea experience, which can also be enjoyed during afternoon tea or other occasions at the restaurant.

Destined encounter with my favorite character at Krispy Kreme Doughnuts

Destined Encounter at Krispy Kreme Doughnuts

While walking in a shopping mall, I spotted a Krispy Kreme Doughnuts.

I used to think they were everywhere, but lately I think they are just a little bit more common at the storefronts. I looked in front of one of these stores and...our eyes met.

Sesame Street Collaboration
HAPPY SWEET SESAME STREET

Since the end of April, Krispy Kreme Doughnuts has been selling Elmo and Cookie Monster doughnuts in collaboration with Sesame Street!

It seems there was a Sesame Street collaboration box if you bought it in a big box, but I bought it in a set of three. I had them for breakfast.

They look a little out of place because of the holes in the donuts.

It's not simply red or blue coded, but chocolate spray is used to make the difference, and the chocolate chip cookie in Cookie Monster's mouth is quite intricate and cute.

I've been watching Sesame Street since I was little, so I'm excited!

Personally, I'm very happy, but my husband was like, "Oh, I knew Elmo on his own, but does he have other friends?" I wonder if everyone knows who Elmo is. I'm a little worried.

I'm hoping that Krispy Kreme Doughnuts will do another fun collaboration with Elmo, as I sometimes have a craving for their original glazed doughnuts and other flavors.

First Challenge! Malaysian Cuisine at "Malay Chan" in Ikebukuro (Halal Certified) – Tokyo's Halal Restaurant

Malaysian Cuisine at "Malaychan"

Whenever I mention that I'm going to Malaysia, there's always a restaurant that Asian food lovers highly recommend to me. That place is "Malaychan," a Malaysian restaurant located in Ikebukuro.

I decided to give it a try one evening after work. The restaurant is located on the west side of Ikebukuro Station. While various sources mention it's a 5-minute walk from the station, it's not referring to the popular image of the JR Ikebukuro Station's front rotary from the west exit. Instead, it's the distance from the Ikebukuro Station 1b exit, where you walk through the underground passage for a while and come out near the Tokyo Metropolitan Theatre and Rikkyo University. I have overlooked this before and almost been late for appointments at restaurants in the Ikebukuro area, so it's something to be cautious about.

What kind of restaurant is "Malaychan"?

"Malaychan" is an authentic Malaysian restaurant that has been serving traditional cuisine for over 30 years. It's quite impressive that it has continued to thrive in the heart of the city for three decades.

Now, the exterior of the restaurant is stylish and eye-catching, making it hard to believe that it's a bit far from the station. In front of the restaurant, there are menus and samples displayed, allowing you to get a sense of the dishes served.

Upon entering the restaurant, there are several table seats available. I was guided to one of the tables on the first floor, but I heard there is also seating on the second floor.

As I looked through the menu, trying to decide what to eat, the friendly owner, who I assume is the "Mama-san," recommended their signature appetizer set (¥1,100) and suggested adding other appetizers if desired before moving on to the main course.

The owner mentioned that they are usually extremely busy during both lunch and dinner, but today, miraculously, they had some free time. While waiting for my order, I had a pleasant chat with Mama-san.

Perhaps due to the need for hospitality in serving halal cuisine, they usually focus on bento and lunch services. Indeed, there aren't many restaurants serving halal food that come to mind, and even if there's no particular requirement, I believe it's a place worth recommending to friends who have come from afar.

When I mentioned my plan to study abroad in Malaysia, Mama-san kindly shared various aspects of life in Malaysia and offered advice on language learning. Since I'll be attending a language school, there will likely be many foreign students from different countries, but I thought it would be great to make local friends and go out with them!

Despite it being our first meeting, the atmosphere was incredibly pleasant.

Malaysian Cuisine at "Malaychan"

After a while, the dishes arrived. First, the appetizer set, which showcased various Malaysian dishes, was presented on a stylish plate designed like a sterilizing effect banana peel.

In particular, the skewered meat (sate) topped with a curry-like sauce was delicious. The portion sizes of each dish were just right.

I also ordered spring rolls with tempeh. 

Recently, I've been learning Indonesian on Duolingo because it's similar to Malay, and I've always wondered what tempeh tastes like. It was fortunate to have the opportunity to try it.

By the way, as I looked through the menu, I noticed some familiar words like "ayam" (chicken), so it was fun to come across words I knew.

After finishing the appetizers, the main course, "Mee Goreng," arrived. 

It's a sweet and savory stir-fried noodles commonly found in Indonesia and the Malay Peninsula. It was packed with small shrimp (probably) and vegetables, and I was satisfied.

Although I wanted to try the desserts as well, I felt that eating more would affect me the next day, so I decided to stop there this time.

The Allure of "Malaychan": Attention to Detail and Convenience

Upon returning home, I discovered that Malay Chan occasionally receives lessons from Malaysian chefs, which helps them refine their culinary skills. They are continuously working on improving their techniques.

Regarding payment methods, they accept cash, of course, but they also offer a wide range of cashless options such as QR code payments and credit cards. This convenience is appealing since many small Asian ethnic restaurants only accept cash. As someone who prefers cashless transactions, I brought a little extra cash just in case, but it seems there was no need to worry.

There are still many dishes I haven't had the chance to try, such as Nasi Goreng and desserts, so I would love to visit Malay Chan again!