a morning in China

a block from my hotel
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I had initially been excited at the prospect of having to stay one night in Hong Kong on my return journey as it meant I would have a little time to do some exploring of my first Chinese City. However, when you finally arrive somewhere at 1am, and then hit the city center at 2.30 there isn't too much that you feel like doing except finding your hotel and putting your head down. This is exactly what I did, and what a wise move it proved to be!

I had next to no money for my morning in Hong Kong but didn't let that stop me having a good wander round. My big bag had been checked right through to Japan so I was able to get around with ease through the humid Hong Kong morning. I'm not sure if it was just the area I was in, but I was not quite as aware of just how "Chinese" looking Hong Kong is. I walked past so many fishy smelling, dried seafood shops selling things like dried shark fins and lizards spread and tied to a spear. Loads of the buildings were wrapped in bamboo scaffolding. All in all the city had a nice feel to it and is definitely somewhere I hope to get back to with more than fours hours spare, and $40 in my pocket.

smelly dried seafood. Notice the sharks fin's
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After what seemed like an eternity I arrived back in Japan and instantly felt the pleasure of being home rush over me. I don't know what they put in the water here but both times I have left and then retuned I just cant wipe the wide smile from my face. Every time I leave just serves to remind me how nice the Japanese are and how amazing the country is... oh and the fact I was going to be able to see Karen again may have had a little something to do with it too!! ;-)