The orders arrived in late 1945 after Japan had long surrendered to the Allied powers. Half of the 2nd Rangers Battalion was being sent to this city in Japan known as Hakodate. It largely remained unbombed by American B-29's, but the higher-ups were taking no chances.

...

The huge Navy ships would not get to Japan quickly. Captain John H. Miller sent most of his time studying his orders, reading those papers over and over again and studying maps of Hakodate. Their orders were simple; keep the peace and order. You'll be pulled out of Japan and sent home when we deem appropriate. Captain Miller wasn't used to such mundane orders. Others were thrilled. Especially Reiben, Caparzo, and Mellish. They aimed to do as little "work" as possible and spend time goofing off and wandering around Hakodate. Everyone had mixed feelings about their purpose occupying Japan. The only weapons they were permitted to have were service pistols. Jackson seemed not to care less about only being allowed a pistol ("I don't intend on hurtin' anyone. They've suffered enough"). Upham was nervous and excited ("I can't wait to learn more about Japanese culture. I've been curious for years"). Wade largely had no opinions ("I'm a medic. Why am I going? Whatever."), and Sergeant Horvath just seemed to be glad the fighting was over.

...

American jeeps and trucks rumbled through the streets of Hakodate. Captain Miller sat in the front of a Jeep driven by Sergeant Horvath, studying a map of Hakodate again. He felt bad looking around and seeing the looks they were getting by Japanese civilians. Most were frightened, some were sad, some were disgusted or angry. Reiben, Caparzo, Mellish, Jackson, Wade, and Upham sat in the back of the Jeep, taking in the sights. The city was well-kept, largely untouched by American firebombings. Reiben was mostly looking for women. He was like that.

...

After they got to the base they were staying at, they were told they had to stay there for the rest of the day. They couldn't go out until tomorrow. That was just fine with mostly everyone, as they were tired. The next day, however, Reiben, Mellish, and Caparzo were eager to go out, dragging Upham and Wade with them. After hitching several rides and almost getting lost, they found themselves in a Geiko district. Reiben was in heaven, openly staring at the Geiko and maiko who were walking through the streets in their silk kimonos and traditional white makeup. Reiben pointed shamelessly.

"Look at them. Look at those geisha."

He said. Wade rolled his eyes. Upham shook his head, jumping to correct him.

"No, Reiben. They're only called that in Tokyo. Here, they're geiko or geigi. Remember that."

He said, flipping through his notebook. Reiben smirked.

"Same thing. We should talk to some."

He said. Wade spoke up finally.

"I don't think they want to talk to you, Reiben."

He said dryly. Reiben glared at Wade.