My moss statue from mashed potatoes and green dyed cornflakes is not great but I am pleased with my espresso dyed radish lantern. To understand my inspiration, see the photo below.

Container: EasyLunchBoxes

Left Side: Moss Statue – Mashed Potatoes sculpted by hand with crushed corn flakes dyed green, diced carrots

Top Right: Peanuts

Bottom Right: Stone Lantern – Red radish peeled and cut and carved into lantern shaped, attached with spaghetti, brushed on espresso powder mixed with water, spinach leaves

Inspiration photo for my Moss Statue Bento

I am very happy with my Hedgehog cheeseball bento! I was inspired by this cookie recipe.

Container: Wooden box purchased in Kyoto at Bento&co.

Contents: Hedgehog – cream cheese mixed with finely cut shredded cheese formed by hand into a hedgehog shape, melted chocolate, chopped pecans, butter lettuce, green beans, blackberries, honey roasted peanuts

Inspiration photo for my Hedgehog Bento

We checked out of our hotel in Kyoto and took a train to Osaka to meet my language partner Maki. She was kind to meet us on the platform of first train station in Osaka so we did not need to transfer on our own. We stayed with Maki and her cat Kinchun at her apartment for two nights. Before the trip I provided Maki some things we wanted to do in Osaka. Maki planned an itinerary for all of us that included my ideas and added other unique and fun experiences to do together! It was an enjoyable and memorable two days!

Sunday July 7

• Lunch Tonkatsu Restaurant
• Cafe de Pojagi Osaka Korea Town
• Houzenji Moss Statue
• Hedgehog Cafe
• Yakitori Restaurant
• Glico Sign
• Team Lab Botanical Garden

Monday July 8

• Breakfast at Maki’s apartment (on beautiful wooden plates)
• Akashi-Kaikyo Bridge
• Lunch at Restaurant
• Gilcopia Tour and Bisco Experience
• Dinner at Restaurant
• Osaka Bookstore