When dining in Japan, you’ll often find a variety of condiments at your table, each enhancing your meal in unique ways. From familiar soy sauce to more adventurous spices, these seasonings aren’t just extras—they’re a key part of the flavor experience. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the most common tableside condiments found at different types of restaurants, what…
Explore the vibrant flavors of Okinawa, where island culture meets unforgettable cuisine. From savory Okinawan soba to fresh seafood and tropical sweets, these must-try dishes offer a taste of the island’s rich culinary heritage. Dive into Okinawa’s food scene and discover its unique flavors! Gōya champurū: an Okinawa classic Gōya champurū is a signature Okinawan stir-fry made with tofu, egg,…
“Unagi Kaneichi Higashi Ueno” (referred to hereafter as Kaneichi) opened its doors in the Ueno area of Tokyo in 1965. Since then, Kaneichi has been a part of Ueno’s landscape, specializing in unagi (Japanese freshwater eel) dishes with a sauce that has remained unchanged since its founding. “上うな重,” Premium Eel Box 3,500 JPY (tax included) A sauce unchanged since the…
On Asakusa’s Denboin Street (also called Denboin-dori), which is constantly bustling with tourists, there’s a ramen shop that attracts long lines daily. That shop’s name is “Asakusa Nadai Ramen Yoroiya” (hereafter referred to as “Yoroiya”). The lines outside include not just Japanese locals but also many international diners, making it one of Asakusa’s most popular restaurants, attracting people from all…
Gyōza dumplings, with their endless variations of fillings and toppings, offer a wide range of flavors. In addition, at “KITTAN GYOZA” in Nakameguro, you can enjoy gyoza that not only taste delicious but also look great on social media posts. Kittan Gyoza’s dumplings are umami-rich and crafted with care The gyoza at KITTAN GYOZA are characterized by their distinct umami…
Kyoto, a city rich in history and culture, is equally famous for its refined cuisine. From traditional dishes rooted in centuries of culinary heritage to innovative flavors, Kyoto offers a unique taste experience. Here are the must-try foods in Kyoto that capture the essence of this elegant city! Matcha: Kyoto’s world-famous green tea Kyoto is well-renowned for its high-quality matcha,…
Wagyū (beef sourced from specific Japanese cattle breeds) is a must-try for any meat lover visiting Japan. Globally renowned for its melt-in-your-mouth texture, exquisite taste, and unique marbling, it can be enjoyed in many different ways, from grilled yakiniku cuisine to hotpot cooking. In this article, we will introduce some of the best wagyu restaurants Tokyo has to offer, and…
Unagi, Japanese freshwater eel, tends to be more expensive than eel from overseas. However, “Makiyaki Unagi Ginza Onodera HONTEN,” a restaurant in Akasaka, is changing the long-standing image that domestic unagi is expensive. The restaurant uses only domestic eels. Yet, they offer reasonably priced unagi bowls for under 1,000 JPY. “国産うな玉丼,” Domestic Unagi Tamago Don 980 JPY (tax included) The…
Kioichō in Tokyo was once home to famous feudal lords in the Edo period. This area, steeped in Edo history, is lined with renowned high-end Japanese restaurants that exude luxury. Among these restaurants in the area, one we would like to introduce is Kioichō Kichiza. The kaiseki (traditional Japanese multicourse meals), composed of seasonal ingredients, are crafted with meticulous care…
Onigiri, rice balls, have been a staple in Japanese cuisine for centuries. While simple in concept, their depth in craft and flavor have made them not just a traditional treat, but a popular modern delicacy. These tasty rice balls come in a wide variety of flavors, and are the perfect snack to fuel your travels in Japan. Here are some…
Udon is one of Japan’s traditional noodle dishes. Whether served in a hot soup or cold with a side of dipping broth, the thick and chewy wheat noodles are a staple of classic Japanese cuisine. Just about anywhere you travel in the country, you can almost always count on finding an udon shop. However, if you’d like to try out…
Japanese convenience stores, (referred to in shorthand in Japanese as conbini or konbini) are more than just a quick stop for snacks—they’re a treasure trove of surprising and incredibly useful products and services. Here are a few highlights of the unexpected goods and services found at convenience stores in Japan that help them live up to their name. For travelers…
Located in Asakusa, “seafoods restaurant MEXICO Asakusa” is an eatery where you can enjoy fresh seafood. (Please note that restaurant sometimes spells “Mexico” as “Mehico” on their menu and signage.) Among their many dishes, their pilaf featuring snow crab is a popular item loved by many. “伝統のカニピラフ（Sサイズ）,” Traditional MEHIKO Fried Rice 1,738 JPY (tax included) Popular since the restaurant’s founding!…
Hokkaidō, Japan’s northernmost island, is a culinary paradise renowned for its pristine ingredients and unique dishes. From the freshest seafood to hearty bowls of ramen, Hokkaido’s diverse cuisine reflects its rich natural environment and deep-rooted traditions. This article will help serve as a guide to the must-try foods during your travel to Hokkaido. Dine on these exquisite dishes to warm…
In Asakusa, Tokyo, a popular tourist destination visited by people from all around the world, the diversity of food options is expanding. One eatery accommodating the varying food needs of international visitors to Japan is “Tempura Asakusa SAKURA,” a tempura restaurant. The most popular item on the menu, a wagyū beef tempura rice bowl, uses halal-certified wagyu beef. The wagyu…