Nabe, a representative dish of Japan’s winter food culture, is a comforting meal where fresh ingredients are simmered in steaming hot broth and shared around the table. It symbolizes Japan’s cultural emphasis on gathering with family and friends, making it a must‑try culinary experience. While Japanese cuisine is already popular in North America and Southeast Asia, truly tasting and understanding…
Many travelers list food as one of the top reasons for visiting Japan. Ramen, sushi, wagyū beef—Japan’s culinary delights attract foodies from around the world. But drinks, too, are an essential and often overlooked part of the Japanese travel experience. From seasonal teas and juices, unique beverages from vending machines, and region-exclusive fruit drinks to delicately aromatic sake and shōchū,…
Japan may not be the first destination that comes to mind for a beach holiday, but this island nation boasts a surprising array of coastlines well-suited for children, prioritizing safety, cleanliness, and convenience. Some of the best options lie just outside Tokyo, while others await in the tropical south, where Okinawa’s warm seas and soft sands create a true summer…
When traveling in Japan, one of the joys—beyond the scenery and food—is discovering the unique local drinks found in each region. Take Hokkaidō Prefecture, for example, where locally loved guarana drinks line convenience store shelves, or Ehime Prefecture, where juice bursting with the natural sweetness of mikan (mandarin oranges) is especially popular. Each of these beverages reflects the region’s climate…
The Japanese tea ceremony—called chanoyu or sadō/chadō—is not merely about drinking tea. It is a refined cultural art, a meditative practice, and a spiritual discipline guided by the principles of harmony, respect, purity, and tranquility. For first-time visitors to Japan, taking part in a tea ceremony offers an intimate window into the country’s traditions and aesthetic ideals. Both Kyoto and…
Tucked between Ueno and Asakusa, Kappabashi-dori, affectionately known as “Kitchen Town,” is Tokyo’s go-to street for all things culinary. Lined with shops selling everything from handmade knives to hyper-realistic plastic food samples, it’s a goldmine for chefs, restaurant owners, and curious tourists alike. Whether you’re hunting for professional-grade tools or quirky kitchen-themed souvenirs, Kappabashi delivers a shopping experience that doubles…
Tokyo has no shortage of shopping districts, but with so many neighborhoods to explore, it helps to know what each one does best. Shibuya and Shinjuku are two of the city’s busiest retail hubs—both packed with options, but each with its own character. They cater to different styles, budgets, and shopping habits, so understanding what sets them apart can help…
As exemplified by matcha, Japan is home to a wide variety of traditional beverages that have been passed down through generations. Once enjoyed mainly in limited settings like the home or chashitsu (traditional tea rooms), many of these drinks are now readily available in bottled or canned form at convenience stores and vending machines across the country. It’s never been…
When visiting Japan, you’ll naturally want to experience its seasonal landscapes and traditional culture—but don’t overlook the vibrant drinking scene found in local bars and izakaya gastropubs. From the iconic “kanpai” (cheers!) that kicks off a night out, to thoughtfully paired drinks with meals, to convenient canned cocktails from the nearest convenience store—alcohol in Japan is as much about connection…
If you spend any time exploring Japanese food culture, there’s a good chance you’ll come across nattō (fermented soybeans) at some point. A staple of the Japanese breakfast table, natto is known for its strong smell and stringy texture—which can be a surprise for first-timers. But don’t be too quick to judge: natto is not only deeply rooted in Japanese…
Pickles, or tsukemono, are an essential part of the Japanese dining table. Though simple in appearance, they offer deep, complex flavors and pair exceptionally well with rice. This article will introduce everything from the basics of tsukemono to its varieties and even how to make it at home. What are tsukemono? Tsukemono—long beloved in Japanese cuisine—are vegetables preserved by soaking…
Experiencing local food is one of the best ways to understand a region’s culture and its people. While Tokyo is home to countless restaurants, its markets represent the very roots of Japanese food culture. Among them, the Tsukiji and Toyosu fish markets are more than just sightseeing spots—they offer something deeper and more meaningful. Photo for illustrative purposes Tsukiji Market…
Donburi, or rice bowl dishes, are a hallmark of Japanese cuisine. Featuring a bowl of rice topped with a variety of ingredients, these meals are simple yet satisfying and are deeply woven into everyday Japanese life. Their convenience and flavor make them especially beloved among busy modern eaters. What makes donburi so appealing is their remarkable variety. Toppings range from…
Dango — round Japanese sweet dumplings typically served on a skewer — are a common sight on the streets when traveling in Japan. This traditional confection with its chewy texture has been loved by the Japanese for centuries. Dango are simple sweets made by kneading rice flour with water, shaping into balls, then boiling or steaming them. Despite their simplicity,…
When planning a trip to Japan, one dish you absolutely can’t miss is ramen. Ramen is a beloved part of Japanese cuisine that has evolved uniquely in each region of the country. Originally imported from China, this noodle dish has taken on a life of its own in Japan—growing into a cultural staple served everywhere from casual diners to Michelin-starred…