Food & Drink
Explore delicious local dishes and where to find them.
Popular Dishes
- Sushi: A world-famous dish made with vinegared rice and a variety of ingredients, including seafood, vegetables, and sometimes tropical fruits. Check out local sushi bars in Tokyo's Tsukiji Market.
- Ramen: A flavorful noodle soup available in many regional varieties. Be sure to try Tonkotsu (pork bone) ramen in Fukuoka or Shoyu (soy sauce) ramen in Tokyo.
- Okonomiyaki: A savory pancake filled with ingredients like cabbage, meat, and seafood, often topped with mayonnaise and a sweet sauce. Visit Hiroshima for a unique take on this dish.
- Tempura: Battered and deep-fried vegetables and seafood, served with a dipping sauce. Enjoy this dish at specialty restaurants throughout Japan.
- Takoyaki: Grilled octopus balls, popular as street food in Osaka. Look for food stalls at festivals and markets.
Traditional Drinks
- Sake: A fermented rice beverage that can be served warm or chilled. Experience tasting different varieties at a local izakaya.
- Matcha: A powdered green tea known for its vibrant color and health benefits. Try it in traditional tea ceremonies or as a flavored drink.
- Shōchū: A distilled spirit that can be made from various ingredients, including barley, sweet potatoes, and rice. It’s a popular drink in Kyushu.
- Calpis: A non-alcoholic drink made from fermented milk, popular for its sweet and tangy flavor. It can be enjoyed straight or mixed with water or soda.
Where to Eat
Many cities have vibrant food scenes. Some recommendations include:
- Tokyo: Tsukiji Outer Market for fresh sushi and seafood.
- Osaka: Dotonbori for street food like takoyaki and okonomiyaki.
- Kyoto: Nishiki Market for traditional snacks and sweets.
- Sapporo: Try miso ramen at one of the many ramen shops.