Hakata Ippudo

Having developed a taste for ramen in milky pork bone broth when I lived in Bangkok, I'm always on the lookout for good Japanese restaurants that serve this comfort food. An American friend introduced me to Hakata Ippudo in Causeway Bay(2F, 8 Russell Street, Causeway Bay). She had eaten at the Ippudo in New York City and was pleased to find Ippudo in Hong Kong. This Japanese chain which can now be found globally does not disappoint and remains one of my favourites ramen restaurants in Hong Kong. They have restaurants in Central (3F, Century Square, 1-13, D'Aquilar Street) and Tsim Sha Tsui (2F, SilverCord, 30 Canton Road).

For the mother of all ramen dishes, try the Akamaru Shinaji ramen, its latest signature dish which has a really flavorful pork bone broth and comes with soft-boiled egg, char siu, seaweed, black fungus, bamboo shoots and bean sprouts.

On a recent trip to Tokyo earlier this year, I was determined to check out the Ippudo in its home country. After getting lost for a while and asking for directions from numerous people, I finally managed to find the Ippudo in Ginza. Unlike the spacious, up-market branches in HK, the Ippudo in Ginza is a typical Japanese ramen shop. Located in a small basement, there are a handful of counter seating and a few tables. I love it as this is what I remember of the other ramen shops we ate in our previous trip to Japan. In Japan, the Ippudo provides complimentary appetizers such as the spicy bean sprout, which is chargable in the Hong Kong branches. However, I am pleased to say that the quality of the food in Hong Kong is on par with the Japanese locations. I think it's time for a visit to Ippudo soon!

 

Sai Kung - McLehose Trail Stage 2

Stage 1 of the McLehose Trail ends at the hill overlooking Long Ke. It's a rather strange place as you would either need to retrace your steps back to Pak Tam Chung, or continue on to Stage 2, which is what we did. Stage 2 is a 5-hour, 13.5 km hike - a trail for serious and prepared hikers. It involves many climbs - some on steep steps, some on rocky trails.

On the plus side, the views are simply breathtaking as we stopped to take a breath! Who would have imagined that Hong Kong is so beautiful? We almost forgot about our aching feet...





What kept us going as we concentrated on putting one feet in front of the other as we trekked through endless kilometres was the promise of lunch at Sai Wan village. One of our friends, a seasoned hiker promised us a delicious fried beef kuey teow at a small cafe in Sai Wan village.

For those who don't have energy to continue on Stage 2, there is an exit route at the crossroads at Chui Tung Au (Blowpipe Pass). Turn left and you will end up Sai Wan Road where you can call a taxi to pick you up. We turn right, descending the cement stairs and pressed on towards Sai Wan village.A couple of stray dogs greeted us as we entered the village.


Time seemed to have stood still here.

We were so happy to have finally arrived at the restaurant. At this stage, it was 3 pm and we were so hungry we could eat a cow!


Unfortunately, the restaurant ran out of fried beef kuey teow, but did have other noodles. Food always taste good when you are starving!



As we filled our stomachs, we also enjoyed the view of Sai Wan beach from our table.


Rested and fed, our spirits were high as we continued our journey at 4 pm, cutting across the beach and headed to the next set of hills where more steps await us.

At the next village, we come across this old rickety bridge. Thankfully, it was across a small body of water so even if it gave way, no major harm would be done. We all made it across safely.

We met another family here who had begun their journey from the other end of the McLehose Trail. They were desparate to get home and wanted to know if they should backtrack or move towards Sai Wan village. As I mentioned earlier, you really do need to be prepared before embarking on this trail!

At the start of our hike, we were motivated by the promise of lunch. At this stage, we were motivated to finish Stage 2 before dark fall! As a precaution, our friend, the seasoned hiker who brought along a torch, purchased another torch, just in case... That prompted us to move a little faster.... or as fast as our aching feet would allow us. We passed more villages, some abandoned.


We climbed up and down more hills. The steps were endless and just when we thought the climb had ended, there was more steps around the bend. Thankfully, it was a fun group and we managed to still be in good spirits despite our weary bodies. At around 6 pm, we reached Pak Tam Au, the end of the Stage 2 trail - finally!


We were tired, but exhilirated at having completed Stage 1 and 2 of the McLehose trail. After some photos by the trail sign to remember this trip by, we caught bus no 94 and headed back to Pak Tam Chung. After that, we had another 45 minute drive back to Hong Kong Island for dinner and a good night's rest. It was an incredible day, one that I will remember for a long long time.

Sai Kung - McLehose Trail Stage 1

It is now our seventh month in Hong Kong. We've pretty much settled down, established routines and found regular shopping and dining spots. We've experienced the change in seasons from summer to autumn to winter. With the cooler weather, we've had to get a new set of winter wardrobe as our existing winter travel wear was not necessarily approporiate or sufficient for daily use. I love that I get to wear knee high boots and trendy long jackets.

But a new wardrobe aside, the best part of the autumn/winter season in Hong Kong is the hiking! J and I have been exploring some of the trails on Hong Kong Island. I am continually amazed at how green Hong Kong is. Whilst most people associate Hong Kong with narrow tall buildings, large masses of people and pollution, there is a large part of Hong Kong (whether it is on Hong Kong Island, the surrounding islands of Lantau or Lamma, or the mainland of the New Territories) that is pristine and gorgeously rural! Last weekend, our friends organized a hike to the Sai Kung Peninsula, covering Stages 1 (10.6km) and 2 (13.5km) of the McLehose Trail. Benefitting from their experience last year, we taxied from Pak Tam Chung to the East Dam (about 20 minutes at a cost of HKD60+), saving us close to 2 hours hike on tarred road for Stage 1 of the trail.

Our hike started from the giant blue dolos monument, built to remember the construction workers who perished during the building of the dam. (Note: A dolos (plural dolosse) is a concrete block in a complex geometric shape weighing up to 20 tons, used in great numbers to protect harbour walls from the erosive force of ocean waves)


We made our way down to the dam, which is listed as part of the Hong Kong Global Geopark of China.

On the trail down to the dam, there are hexagonal rock columns, which resemble "petrified waterfall". These rock columns are formed by the cooling and contracting mixture of lava, rock debris and volcanic ash.

The start of many climbs to come began as we hiked up the rugged stone trail to the north towards Long Ke. This was the view that we saw at the end of the Stage 1 of the McLehose trail - the breathtaking Long Ke Wan (Long Ke Bay).


1 hour down, 6 more hours to go. Can't wait to begin Stage 2...

My First Typhoon 8 Experience in HK

I am used to thunderstorms in Malaysia but that did not prepare me for my first typhoon 8 experience in Hong Kong. Yesterday evening, the HK Observatory issued a typhoon 3 warning which means strong winds are in store. When we first arrived, we experienced a T3 signal but it did not go further than that. In the wee hours of the morning, the typhoon 8 storm signal was issued, courtesy of Typhoon Nesat. With maximum gusts ranging from 82-115 kilometres per hour, it was no wonder I did not get a good rest last night. Despite securing all doors and windows, the strong gusty winds somehow found their way in through ducts and I could hear rattling throughout the night, accompanied by the sound of crazy howling wind outside. Schools and offices are closed. Buses do not run. So, it's a holiday for the majority. Since I work from home, it doesn't make much difference. J is away and is scheduled to fly back today. For now, it appears that the flight is on schedule, but we'll have to wait and see. Thankfully, I managed to take Kess out to relieve herself this morning before the rain hit. There were lots of debris and broken branches on the road and we did not stay out longer than necessary. When the rain started, the view from my window was like this:

Half an hour later, I could hardly see outside.

So, what should one do when a typhoon 8 signal is in place? Well, the HK observatory tells us to: Complete all precautions now before gales commence. Lock all windows and doors. Fit bars into positions and insert reinforced shutters and gates if available. Adhesive tape fixed to large window panes in exposed positions will reduce damage by broken glass. Do not stand near windows on the exposed side of your home. Move all furniture and valuables away from these areas. Make sure you have a safe place to shelter, should windows be broken. Now is the time to decide which rooms you will use to shelter if the windows on the exposed side of your home become broken. Owners of neon signs should arrange for the electricity supply to their signs to be switched off. Park your car where it is least likely to be damaged. Avoid staying in the street. Return home as soon as possible if conditions so permit. The T8 signal is supposed to be on for the whole day. Let's hope it doesn't increase to a T9 or T10 signal. Fingers crossed.

The changing season in Hong Kong

Autumn is here. The change from summer has been gradual. The days are shorter - the sun rises a little later in the morning and it gets dark by 6.30 pm now. It used to be that the late evenings were cooler. Now, even the late mornings are cool. This means that Kess and I can go for longer walks in the morning, even if we get a later start. Before, during the peak of summer, our little beagle will let me know when she wants to go home by doing her own u-turn and pulling me back, usually only after walking for about 15-20 minutes. She would be panting not long after we start our walk. Today, this beagle was raring to go and we actually walked past the Wan Chai Gap Road for the first time since she arrived in Hong Kong. In fact, I had to gently nudge her to do the u-turn as we would have to cover the same distance back.

Having lived in Malaysia where the only seasons we have are rain and shine, and daylight is fairly constant throughout the year, I look forward to experiencing the four seasons in Hong Kong. We were told that last year's winter was quite cold by Hong Kong standards. I wonder how our beagle will adjust to the cold weather, having lived her 9 years in a tropical country. J and I noticed that she has more fur now on her belly. Before, we used to see the spots on her belly. Now, those are covered by soft white fur. I suppose being in an air-conditioned home during this past summer is good preparation for her!

It's now 3 months since we've relocated to Hong Kong. I guess I've finally adjusted to it being home. It's been fun exploring new places and experiencing new things. Recently, our families came for a visit and we were able to revisit some of the places we used to go to, like Stanley and the Peak and explore new places like Lamma Island. Shopping was fantastic and we were all a little poorer after our shopping spree. At least we now have a fabulous new wardrobe! Of course, being Malaysians, we tried out new restaurants as well. It is so much more fun to have a big group for meals coz we get to try more dishes. I really must put together a to-do list for visitors and post it on this blog. I guess this will go on my to-do list!
Hong Kong by day and by night

Adjusting to Hong Kong

It's been 5 weeks already. How time flies. We are slowly finding our way around Hong Kong, our new home. It's the second time we're living away from home so we know what to expect when adjusting to a new country. I still remember standing at a loss at the detergent aisle of a Bangkok supermarket trying to figure out which laundry detergent to buy because I couldn't read Thai. I couldn't even decipher the brand logos. This time round, grocery shopping was a little easier. Sure, we still had to figure out which supermarket suits our needs best. But, it's all part of the process of familiarization. I enjoy the huge selection of imported food products. But I do find it odd that fresh chicken is so expensive and not readily available. I still miss my car for grocery shopping! Now I have to make multiple trips as I can only carry 2 bags if I'm on my own. Alternatively, I plan my purchases so that it exceeds HKD500 and get delivery. Even so, I have to carry all fresh and frozen produce home coz those can't be delivered.

Another aspect of living in HK is the walking. Since the majority of HK residents use public transportation, walking is part and parcel of daily life. Gone are the days of home to car to mall/restaurant/class/whichever the destination and back to car then home again. I've never walked so much in my life! The good thing from this is it's good exercise. Top this off with the 2 daily walks with our beagle, I should be getting fitter (and hopefully, trimmer).

Summer time in Hong Kong is humid and balmy. Even though we are used to the humidity in Malaysia, the humidity here is much worse. We are always amazed each time we empty our dehumidifier at the amount of water in the container. Add that to the amount if walking we do in HK, it's very common for us to be drenched with perspiration as we make our way from one place to another. Summer time also means rain so we never leave home without our umbrella. The good thing about the rain is the much cooler weather that comes with it. Summer time also means typhoon weather. So far, we've experienced Typhoon 3, with gusty winds and lots of rain. Living on a high floor, we can really hear and feel the strong winds. I can't imagine what Typhoon 8 would be like...

Summer time is also sale time! I haven't had much opportunity to go crazy shopping as yet, but I've scored some pretty good deals. The only thing that one needs to contend with is the crowd. Locals and tourists alike flock to the malls. So one must really be prepared to deal with the large number of people.

Eating in HK is great. There is a huge selection of cuisine here. Dim sum brunch is very popular. We've discovered that the trick is to go before 12pm if you want to get a seat more easily.Apart from the larger Chinese restaurants, a lot of the eating places in HK like the "tai pai thong" are small, probably due to the high rental cost. One has to get used to sharing a table with strangers. Don't expect to linger and chat during peak meal periods. You're expected to vacate once you have finished eating. In fact, some restaurants give you an allotted time for your meal once you're seated. Since we've been to HK many times before, we're used to this. But I suppose it would feel quite strange if one is a newcomer here. While I love the food here, I miss Malaysian food. Can't wait for my friend to come with supplies of curries so that I can have a taste of home at home.

First Day in HK

The last couple of weeks have been hectic as J and I prepared to relocate to HK. After all the planning and preparation, we've finally arrived in HK to begin a new chapter in our lives. I must admit that I leave home with a heavy heart. Despite its many imperfections and the high rate of migration of our friends to the Land Down Under, Malaysia is still home for me. I will miss my family and friends. I will also miss my favourite local dishes, ranging from nasi lemak to "har meen", roti canai to rojak. What can I say? I'm Malaysian :-)

We touched down today this afternoon and was greeted by a beautiful summer day in HK, with sunny blue skies (a real treat in HK). After a late lunch, we went grocery shopping as we had nothing at home. Thankfully, the supermarkets here offer free grocery delivery as we had over HKD1,000 worth of groceries. It would have been a challenge lugging all that back home without a car. I will have to get used to the high HK prices for some of the goods here, especially dairy products, which is almost double the price in Malaysia. We bought take-away food from the supermarket for dinner so that we didn't have to go out again. So, our first meal in our new home comprised of rice with small portions of steam chicken, siew yok, tofu and fish and brocolli and cauli stirfry.

Tonight, I look out of the window of my new home in HK and admire the bright lights of HK city from one view. I am thankful for the lovely green hills on the other side of our apartment, as it reminds me a little piece of my backyard in our home in KL. It'll continue to be busy in the coming 2 weeks as we open accounts, get new mobile numbers and sort out all the other administrative issues that come with moving to a new country. Kess will arrive next Friday. We do miss our little beagle, but she's in good hands at the moment with my parents. Can't wait to see her again. Hopefully, she won't be too traumatized by the journey. I was told by a fellow blogger who's also moved with her Great Dane that us humans tend too worry too much and that the dogs actually cope better than expected. Let's hope so. Then of course, there will be quite a lot of unpacking to do when our shipment arrives in about 2-3 weeks time. Once we have our things, we should be feeling more at home.

Well, one door of our lives are closed, and a new one has just been opened. I don't know what's in store for us but I do know that God does. That is enough for me.

“The doors we open and close each day decide the lives we live.”
Flora Whittemore