There’s something uniquely captivating about a culture’s approach to social dining and drinking. In Japan, nowhere is this more apparent than at an 居酒屋 izakaya, the nation’s version of a casual gastropub. With its wide variety of food and drink offerings, the izakaya embodies the Japanese ethos of camaraderie and relaxation after a day’s work. Understanding izakaya dining culture can…
Any foodie’s itinerary for a trip to Japan will rightfully include classics like sushi, sashimi, and ramen, but one would be remiss to not explore the delectable offerings of 洋食 yōshoku dishes. The term “yoshoku” literally means “Western food” in Japanese, and refers to a category of Japanese cuisine that is influenced by Western-cooking and recipes. Yoshoku dishes are usually…
Rice balls, known as おにぎり onigiri in Japanese, are maybe one of the most versatile and popular ready-to-go snacks in Japan. Wrapped in savory のり nori seaweed, onigiri pack a variety of different tasty ingredients as filling, so there’s bound to be a favorite type for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a snack to eat on the go, take with…
和牛 Wagyū is rich and tender high-quality beef emblematic of Japanese beef cattle breeds. It has become beloved globally by meat lovers and is often regarded with the status of the very top cut of beef in the world. While it’s quite popular in many different countries, there’s nothing like trying the real deal and otherwise unavailable brands in Japan….
Diving into the seemingly ordinary aspects of a culture often unveils extraordinary insights. This is especially true when it comes to exploring Japanese dining culture, where one encounters the concept of 定食 teishoku, the traditional set meal. Teishoku is emblematic of the Japanese eating experience. By understanding its structure and components, we gain an authentic glimpse into the concepts of…
In Japan, the act of gift-giving holds a significant place in social and cultural customs. お土産 omiyage, referring to souvenirs or gifts, often take the form of distinctive snacks. These snacks are not just tasteful delights but also embodiments of regional uniqueness, aesthetic allure, and profound cultural symbolism. As such, for tourists visiting Japan, these snacks serve as ideal gifts,…
Have you ever embarked on a culinary adventure that completely changed your perception of a certain food? Welcome to Japan, where the humble freshwater eel, or unagi, promises to deliver just that – a gastronomic experience that leaves you craving for more. Unagi (written in Japanese as 鰻 or うなぎ and sometimes ウナギ) holds a celebrated spot in the world…
When it comes to Japanese cuisine, dishes like sushi and ramen tend to steal the limelight. However, Japan’s food scene is teeming with more subtle treasures that encapsulate the country’s unique flavors and culinary ethos. Two such gems are soba (written either as 蕎麦 or そば) and udon (usually written as うどん but also as 饂飩). Diving into their world…
No matter how adventurous your appetite may be to try out new gourmet cuisine when traveling abroad, there eventually comes a time when you find yourself craving some comfort food. For many people, that comfort comes from the familiar crunch and flavor of fried food. If you find yourself needing to scratch that itch in Japan, the country’s world of…
When traveling to Japan, many international visitors choose Tokyo as their base. As such, understanding how to navigate from the airports to the central hotel areas in Tokyo is crucial. Considering the various transportation options available, this article aims to provide a comprehensive guide to help you choose the best method based on your needs. Access from Haneda Airport Haneda…
Embarking on a journey to Japan offers more than just sightseeing; it’s an immersive experience. One key part of this experience is the country’s diverse array of accommodations. Each type of lodging offers a unique blend of comfort, culture, and charm. This guide will outline the main options at your disposal, organized into the following sections: Japanese Style, Western Style,…
Found within the bustling district of Shinjuku, the smaller neighborhood of 新大久保 Shin-Ōkubo may not be at the top of lists found in Tokyo guidebooks, but it’s quickly rising the ranks. Known as Tokyo’s “Korea Town,” Shin-Ōkubo is a vibrant area thriving with cuisine and entertainment that attracts both fans of K-Pop and those just looking to taste some authentic…
In the realm of Japanese snacking, the role of 駄菓子 dagashi can’t be understated. These low-cost, fun-packed goodies serve not only as delicious treats but also as a nostalgic trip down memory lane. Imbued with elements of whimsy, dagashi is a true embodiment of joy and culture, making them an absolute must-try for first-time visitors to Japan. The following guide…
A hub of Japanese youth culture and fashion, 渋谷 Shibuya is a bustling commercial and entertainment district located in the heart of Tokyo. It is known for its vibrant atmosphere, trendy fashion boutiques, and iconic pedestrian scramble crossing. The fast-paced area is host to a number of trendy fashion shops, as well as an eclectic selection of restaurants, cafes, and…
A quiet corner tucked in the heart of Tokyo, 谷根千 Yanesen is a quaint mosaic of three adjoining neighborhoods – 谷中 Yanaka, 根津 Nezu, and 千駄木 Sendagi. It stands as a testament to the city’s vibrant past, displaying a delightful blend of traditional architecture and picturesque landscapes. For those seeking an authentic slice of Tokyo’s history, Yanesen offers a tranquil…