InsideJapan News Network

The Japanese Embassy in London played host to an evening of Japanese food, drink and chat on Tuesday (October 11th), as the country pushes to encourage foreign visitors back to the Land of the Rising Sun.

Adding celebrity style, a slice of humour, and a heartfelt love of the country was Jonathan Ross, arguably the UK's most famous Japanophile.

Ross told of his numerous visits to the country, reminiscing on the manga and anime adventures in Akihabara and Shibuya, Okonomiyaki savoury pancake feasts in downtown Tokyo and a warm welcome for his family from the locals wherever they went.

Tim Anderson, whose incredible modern Japanese cuisine saw him crowned Masterchef 2011, was also at the event and spoke of how his immersion in Japanese gourmet culture literally changed his life.

His favourite food?

Humble yet delicious Ramen noodles.

The well-attended event promoted the newly designated World Heritage sights of Hiraizumi in northern Japan and the Ogasawara islands, known as the Galapagos of Japan.

The Japanese ambassador to London, Mr Keiichi Hayashi, summed up the positive message for the night - Visit Japan and enjoy Endless Discovery.