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…
For food lovers visiting Tokyo, Tsukiji is a must-visit destination. Once Japan’s largest fish market that attracted foodies from around the globe, Tsukiji Market still retains much of its vibrant energy today. Even after the wholesale market operations were moved to Toyosu, Tsukiji’s outer market continues to thrive, lined with sushi shops, seafood restaurants, and street food stalls where visitors…
Standing tall in Ushiku City, Ibaraki Prefecture, Ushiku Daibutsu is a towering statue of Amida Buddha, renowned for its overwhelming scale and presence. Recognized by the Guinness World Records in 1995 as the world’s tallest bronze Buddha statue, this enormous figure attracts visitors not only from across Japan but also from countries throughout Asia, including Thailand and Taiwan, where it…
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…
Wagashi, traditional Japanese sweets, embody the country’s singular aesthetic sensibilities. Their forms and colors express seasonal scenery and even poetic sentiment, displaying a delicate artistry akin to fine crafts. At the heart of wagashi lies a deep appreciation for nature, the seasons, and the spirit of hospitality—core elements of Japanese culture. Wagashi are more than just confections; they are symbols…
Among Tokyo’s many bustling districts, Shimbashi offers a unique kind of charm. While it’s a business hub lined with towering office buildings, just step into the backstreets and you’ll find rows of glowing red lanterns and an eclectic mix of bars with a distinctly local flavor. The scene feels like stepping back in time to an older Japan. For Tokyo’s…
When you think of what makes Tokyo unique, which area comes to mind? Some might picture Ginza, a shopping district lined with world-famous luxury brands, while others think of Shibuya, a hotspot for the latest trends. Everyone has their own image of Tokyo. But when it comes to food, no conversation about Tokyo’s culinary scene is complete without mentioning Shimbashi….
Since its founding in 1854 as a tea wholesaler in Uji, Kyoto—Japan’s famed tea-producing region—”Nakamura Tokichi Honten” has steadfastly nurtured the nation’s tea culture for over a century. Today, you can experience the spirit and flavor of this long-established tea house in Ginza, Tokyo, at the “Nakamura Tokichi Ginza Store” (hereafter referred to as “Nakamura Tokichi Ginza”). The ingredients used…
Just 20 minutes by train from Shinjuku or Shibuya, Kichijōji is a one-of-a-kind neighborhood where the bustle of the city and the calm of nature coexist in perfect balance. From longstanding yōshoku (Western-inspired Japanese cuisine) restaurants to hubs of cutting-edge culture, Kichijoji offers new discoveries with every visit as past and present blend seamlessly. Unlike Asakusa, Kichijoji doesn’t boast historical…
At Tokyo Solamachi, the shopping complex at the base of Tokyo Skytree, you can enjoy a special fruit-filled summer experience. One must-visit destination is “Horiuchi Fruit Farm TOKYO Solamachi” (referred to hereafter as “Horiuchi Fruit Farm”), a cafe operated directly by the fruit-specialist farm of the same name. During the summer, the Tokyo Solamachi branch offers seasonally-exclusive kakigōri (shaved ice)…
Just a short walk from the bustle of Omotesando in Tokyo lies Urasando Garden, a quiet little complex housed in a beautifully renovated traditional Japanese home. Tucked away in one corner is “Riz Labo Kitchen Urasando Garden” (hereafter referred to as “Riz Labo Kitchen”), a cafe specializing in gluten-free sweets. The stars of the menu are pancakes and crepes made…
Yamagata Prefecture is famous for cherries, Okayama Prefecture for peaches, and Hokkaidō Prefecture for melons—Japan is dotted with regions known for their signature fruits. Among them, Wakayama Prefecture stands out as a major fruit-producing region, thanks to its rich natural environment and mild climate. “Kannonyama Fruit Parlour Ginza,” with locations in Wakayama and Tokyo’s upscale Ginza district, is a popular…