Summer festivals in Japan, often tied to shrines or temples and rich in traditional performances and games, aren’t complete without food stalls offering delicious treats. From savory bites to sweet indulgences, these must-try festival foods capture the spirit of Japanese summer!
Japanese festival food
Takoyaki: the classic octopus food stall snack
Sometimes translated as “octopus dumplings,” these iconic festival snacks are crispy on the outside, gooey on the inside, and filled with chunks of octopus. They’re usually drizzled with savory sauce and mayonnaise, then topped with bonito flakes that dance from the heat. You can also find different varieties of toppings, so you can enjoy comparing different types!
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Okonomiyaki: a savory grilled delight
Okonomiyaki is a Japanese savory pancake-like dish. It’s made from batter mixed with cabbage, grilled to perfection on a griddle, and topped typically with rich sauce, mayonnaise, and bonito flakes. You’ll find many fillings and toppings that include meat, seafood, and egg. Often at a restaurant you’ll make it yourself, but at a festival food stall, you can enjoy watching the vendor cook one up for you to enjoy as take-out.
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Yakitori: chicken skewers to pair with drinks
These are grilled chicken skewers that are cooked over charcoal, giving them a smoky flavor. They’re served with a choice of tare (sweet soy-based sauce) or shio (salt) seasoning (although sometimes the choice is made for you), and some stalls offer a variety of cuts, from tender thigh meat to juicy chicken skin.
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Yakisoba: saucy noodles that’ll have you hooked
Yakisoba are stir-fried noodles usually mixed with pork, cabbage, and carrots, and coated in a savory, slightly sweet sauce. A sprinkle of powdered seaweed and pickled ginger completes this hearty festival dish.
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Jagabatā: Japan’s festival twist on baked potatoes
Jagabatā is a portmanteau of “jagaimo,” the Japanese word for “potato” and the word “butter.” As you might imagine, these are whole steamed or grilled potatoes served with butter that melts into the fluffy interior. Some stalls offer toppings like cheese or corn for an extra indulgent bite.
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Yaki-tōmorokoshi: corn on the cob with extra flavor
Yaki-tōmorokoshi are grilled ears of corn brushed with soy sauce or sometimes miso glaze, giving them a savory, smoky flavor. The caramelized kernels make this a popular snack for all ages. They’re often served on a skewer.
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Japanese festival sweets
Chocobanana: an unbeatable combo of sweets
Chocobanana, as you might guess, means “chocolate banana.” These are skewered bananas, dipped in melted chocolate, and sometimes decorated with colorful sprinkles, candies, or crushed nuts. While the name includes “chocolate,” many stalls offer other flavored coatings like strawberry, mint, or white chocolate.
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Baby castella: bags of cake goodness
These fluffy, bite-sized sponge cakes are often sold in small paper bags, making them a convenient snack to enjoy as you explore the festival. They sometimes come shaped in the form of cute anime characters as well.
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Ichigo ame and ringo ame: candied strawberries & apples: candied strawberries & apples
Ichigo ame and ringo ame, candied strawberries and apples, respectively, are commonly enjoyed as Japanese festival sweets. These juicy fruits are coated in a shiny, hard sugar glaze. The satisfying crunch of the candy shell complements the sweet and tangy fruit inside, making these a festival favorite.
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Kakigōri: Japan’s beloved shaved ice
Kakigōri, or shaved ice, is perhaps the quintessential Japanese summer dessert! This treat features finely shaved ice drenched in sweet syrups like strawberry, melon, or matcha. Some stalls add condensed milk or fruit toppings for an extra refreshing twist. If you’re looking to beat the heat of Japanese summer at a festival, it’s a highly recommended sweet!
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Taiyaki: tasty fish-shaped cakes
Taiyaki, which have gained popularity outside of Japan, are fish-shaped pastries. They are crisp on the outside and usually filled with sweet red bean paste. Some variations include custard, chocolate, or even savory fillings like cheese.
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Crepes: Japan’s tasty twist on a classic dessert
Unlike French crêpes, Japanese crepes often come in a handheld cone shape. These paper-thin pancakes are filled with ingredients like whipped cream, fresh fruits, and chocolate sauce. Some stalls even offer savory options for a unique festival treat.
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Summer festivals in Japan are more than just a celebration—they’re a feast for the senses, and the vibrant food stalls are an essential part of the experience. Be sure to sample as many as you can during your visit to truly savor the spirit of a Japanese summer festival!
