Curry is a dish that originated outside of Japan, but has undergone a unique evolution within the country. Not only are there specialty curry (pronounced karē in Japanese) restaurants across the country, but it is also served in school lunches, making it fair to say that curry has become a staple of Japanese cuisine. Photo for illustrative purposes The five…
Japan is said to have the highest tuna consumption in the world. In Japan, you can enjoy tuna (maguro) in various dishes, with sushi being the most prominent. Additionally, some restaurants offer rare cuts, making Japan the perfect place to fully indulge in the joys of tuna. In this article, you can learn about the characteristics of different tuna cuts…
Uni, or sea urchin, is considered one of Japan’s three great culinary delicacies. With its creamy texture, delicate ocean scent, and sweetness that spreads across your palate, it truly deserves its reputation as a luxurious ingredient. What part of sea urchin is uni? What exactly is uni? Let’s delve into this ingredient. What we call “uni” is actually the sea…
In Tokyo’s Chūō-ku (Chuo Ward), Tsukishima Monja Street stretches for approximately 500 meters, lined with over 50 restaurants dedicated to monjayaki, a popular dish featuring a pan-fried batter mixed with ingredients like cabbage, meat and seafood. From classic flavors beloved for generations to creative, modern variations, you can discover a diverse range of monjayaki experiences on this street. Tamatoya: a…
Ueno, located in Taito-ku (Taito Ward), Tokyo, is often referred to as the Museum District. The reason for this can be found in “Ueno Onshi Park” (hereafter referred to as “Ueno Park”), which is known as one of Ueno’s foremost tourist destinations. Museums and art galleries are scattered throughout the grounds of Ueno Park, all within walking distance. It’s the…
Each region of Japan has its own iconic local dishes. When people think of Tokyo’s regional cuisine, monjayaki often comes to mind. Monjayaki is a savory Japanese pancake dish made with a thin, runny batter and a variety of ingredients such as meat, seafood, and vegetables that is cooked on a griddle. It’s sometimes referred to as “monja” for short….
Japan is home to approximately 90 zoos affiliated with the Japanese Association of Zoos and Aquariums. Among them, “Ueno Zoological Gardens,” (hereafter referred to as “Ueno Zoo”) located in Taito-ku (Taito Ward) Tokyo, boasts the longest history. Ueno Zoo Main Gate Despite being located in an urban area, the zoo is home to approximately 300 species and 3,000 animals living…
Spring is when various flowers reach peak bloom, creating ample opportunities to enjoy Japan’s natural beauty outdoors. As the warm air gradually settles in and flowers begin to bloom throughout the city, it’s hard not to feel the urge to step outside with a camera in hand. Did you know that Tokyo, a city known for its vibrant restaurants and…
February 22 is recognized as “Cat Day” in Japan due to a wordplay connecting 2 (pronounced “ni” in Japanese), and “nyan” or “nya,” onomatopoeias for a cat’s meow, with the three twos in the date suggesting multiple meows. Each year, as the date approaches, various cat-related products are released, and special events are held across the country. “Meow Mission: Family…
Yakitori, or grilled chicken skewers, is a beloved Japanese dish that brings together simple ingredients and bold flavors. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned fan, understanding the basics of yakitori—its various types, delicious condiments, and proper etiquette—will enhance your dining experience. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to enjoy yakitori to the fullest! The…
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…
Asakusa, one of Tokyo’s most historic districts, is not just famous for its temples and traditional streets but also for its incredible food scene. From hearty hamburger steaks and fluffy omurice to indulgent matcha sweets, this guide will introduce you to some of the best restaurants in Asakusa, blending modern flavors with timeless charm. Asakusa’s giant fluffy curry omurice: Cafe…
Tokyo is a culinary paradise for katsu lovers, from classic tonkatsu to hearty katsu rice bowls and juicy beef katsu. This guide highlights some of the city’s best spots to enjoy these crispy, flavorful delights that have become a worldwide beloved dish! The ultimate Tonkatsu with perfect sauce in Roppongi: Butagumi Shokudou Located in Roppongi, “Butagumi Shokudou” is a tonkatsu…
Tokyo is a paradise for spice lovers, offering a variety of dishes that pack a fiery punch. From rich, spicy ramen to bold and flavorful curries, the city has something to satisfy every heat-seeking palate. In this guide, we’ll introduce some of the best spots to enjoy spicy food in Tokyo, guaranteed to ignite your taste buds. Take on the…
Awarded the Michelin Bib Gourmand for three consecutive years since 2023, just two years after opening in 2021! “Haru-chan Ramen,” a ramen shop, achieved this remarkable feat just a few years after its debut. Born in Shinbashi, Tokyo, Haruchan Ramen opened its flagship store, “Ginza Haru-chan Ramen,” in July 2024. This popular shop sees a constant stream of customers throughout…