Sumo is considered Japan’s national sport, and the meals eaten by sumo wrestlers are collectively known as chanko. Among them, chanko nabe (a hearty hot pot) is especially famous. Each sumo stable has its own version of chanko nabe, and it’s common for retired wrestlers to open their own restaurants. As a result, the area around Ryōgoku Station (located near…
Sumo is one of Japan’s most iconic traditional sports, and the meals sumo wrestlers eat every day are collectively known as chanko. Among them, chanko nabe—a hot pot loaded with vegetables, meat, and sometimes seafood—is particularly famous. For many people, “sumo food” instantly brings this dish to mind. The area around Ryōgoku Station, where Ryōgoku Kokugikan (National Sumo Arena) is…
Oden is a traditional Japanese dish in which ingredients like daikon radish, fish cakes such as chikuwa and kamaboko, and more are simmered slowly in a large pot. Across Japan, you’ll find many establishments where you can enjoy oden paired with alcohol. The type of broth used and the selection of ingredients—called oden-dane—vary widely, giving each shop a distinct character….
Kichijōji is a part of Tokyo that defies simple description, offering countless layers of charm. And HOME PLANET is a venue that seems to embody everything this multifaceted neighborhood has to offer. This lively bar features an impressive array of drinks, including mezcal, alongside a rotating lineup of DJ events and special dishes created by guest chefs. It’s a place…
Nagoya, located in central Japan, is not only a bustling city filled with culture and innovation—it also serves as a strategic gateway to some of Japan’s most enchanting day-trip destinations. With excellent rail connections and a location in the heart of Honshu, Nagoya makes an ideal base for exploring castles, traditional towns, and scenic natural spots without the need for…
Nagoya, Japan’s third most populous city as of 2024, often flies under the radar of first-time travelers—but those who venture here discover a captivating blend of tradition, innovation, and charm. Conveniently located between Tokyo and Osaka, this central hub offers an ideal stopover filled with rich history, cultural experiences, and family-friendly entertainment. If you’re planning your first visit to Nagoya,…
Just a 3-minute walk from Kabuki-za Theater, “Sushi Ginza Onodera SOUHONTEN” is a renowned sushi restaurant nestled in a prime location in Tokyo’s Ginza district—perfect for special occasions. Offering only course meals for both lunch and dinner, the restaurant features a diverse selection of the season’s finest seafood, including red fish, white fish, uni (sea urchin), shrimp, and shellfish. 15…
Japanese convenience stores, known as conbini, offer an incredible variety of products—from food to daily necessities—available 24 hours a day. The extensive selection of food items alone can make it hard to choose, but that’s part of the fun! To help you navigate these offerings, the Umami bites editorial team is highlighting must-try items by category. From timeless classics to…
When planning a trip to Kyushu, Japan’s southernmost main island, one of the most important decisions you’ll face is where to stay. With its diverse landscape, vibrant cities, and rich cultural heritage, Kyushu offers something for every type of traveler. But depending on your travel style—whether you’re drawn to culinary adventures, historical exploration, natural scenery, or rejuvenating hot springs—some cities…
As you get ready for your trip to Japan, picking up some basic chopstick skills can greatly enhance your dining experience. In a country where chopsticks are the main dining utensil, a little practice beforehand not only shows respect for local customs but also allows you to enjoy Japanese cuisine the way it’s meant to be savored. Why learning chopsticks…
As cherry blossoms fade and summer’s heat has yet to arrive, most parts of Japan enter the rainy season, known as tsuyu. While many travelers avoid this time of year, those in search of a more affordable and less crowded experience often discover a uniquely atmospheric side of the country. From misty temple gardens to softly lit city streets, tsuyu…
Convenience stores in Japan, known locally as conbini, are a treasure trove of everything from food to daily necessities, available 24/7. Even the food selection alone is enough to make you feel like a kid in a candy store—so many tempting choices, it’s hard to know where to start! To help you make the most of your convenience store finds,…
Ginza brings together the finest from various fields. The streets are lined with high-brand boutiques, internationally acclaimed gastronomy, and art galleries. Among all the establishments in Ginza, the “Shiseido Parlour Salon de Cafe” stands out with a remarkable presence. The red brick building housing the cafe commands attention even on the main street. Founded in 1902, “Shiseido Parlour” began as…
Okinawa is one of the first places that comes to mind when talking about resort destinations in Japan. It’s not just the beautiful natural scenery and historic architecture—Okinawa’s rich local cuisine is also a big part of its lasting appeal. Located near Yūrakuchō Station, “Ginza Washita Shop Honten” (referred to hereafter as “Ginza Washita Shop”) is a place where you…
Oden is one of Japan’s traditional simmered dishes. By slowly cooking ingredients such as daikon radish, eggs, chikuwa (tube-shaped fish cake), and hanpen (another type of fish cake) in a large pot, it brings out the umami of the ingredients. While simple in appearance, this exquisite dish allows you to experience the depth of Japanese food culture through the complexity…