To discover the best traditional Japanese dishes on your first visit to Japan, check out this section on “Traditional Japanese Dishes” with the sub-sections: “Sushi,” “Ramen,” “Tempura,” “Takoyaki,” and “Okonomiyaki.” Each dish offers a unique and unforgettable taste of Japan’s culture and cuisine that you won’t want to miss.
Sushi
Sushi is the epitome of traditional Japanese cuisine in which various ingredients are combined with vinegared rice. Sushi has become a delicacy and is loved by people worldwide for its unique taste and presentation.
- Various types of sushi exist, including nigiri sushi, maki sushi, temaki sushi, and many more.
- Sushi is traditionally served with soy sauce, pickled ginger, and wasabi on the side.
- Sashimi or raw fish slices are sometimes placed on nigiri sushi to add texture and flavor.
- Sushi quality depends on the freshness of ingredients used to make it and the chef’s skill level.
- Traditional Japanese restaurants often offer omakase courses where chefs create a meal tailored to their customers’ preferences.
In Japan, sushi chefs undergo rigorous training for years before they are considered masters in their craft. While some may consider sushi simple, creating a perfect piece requires a delicate balance between flavors and textures.
Did you know that Jiro Ono is one of the most famous sushi chefs in the world? His restaurant ‘Sukiyabashi Jiro’ in Tokyo has held three Michelin stars since 2007.
Ramen: Sometimes, a bowl of soup is the only thing between you and a nervous breakdown.
Ramen
The following are some interesting facts about Ramen:
- One of the key ingredients in Ramen is dashi, a broth made with fish and seaweed.
- Pork belly or chicken is commonly used as a topping, along with green onions and bamboo shoots.
- Ramen noodles are made with wheat flour, water, and kansui, an alkaline mineral that gives them distinct texture.
- Different regions in Japan have their unique styles of Ramen, such as Sapporo-style with miso broth or Tokyo-style with soy sauce broth.
- There are even vegan and vegetarian versions available for those who avoid meat.
Additionally, it’s common for many to add extra spice or flavor to their ramen by adding garlic oil or chili flakes.
Did you know that Ramen originated from China and was brought to Japan by Chinese immigrants? However, it wasn’t until after World War II that Ramen became more mainstream in Japan thanks to affordable instant noodle packages. Now, it’s become one of Japan’s most iconic dishes enjoyed by people worldwide.
Who needs a fish out of water when you can have it deep fried in tempura batter?
Tempura
In Japanese cuisine, a dish consisting of battered seafood or vegetables deep-fried to perfection is known as ‘crispy fried delights.’ This dish was introduced by Portuguese merchants in the 16th century.
- Tempura is considered one of Japan’s most well-known and celebrated dishes.
- The batter used in tempura is made by mixing ice water with flour and egg yolks to create a light and fluffy texture.
- The tempura should be eaten immediately after being cooked to enjoy its crispiness.
- Traditionally, Tempura is served with a dip prepared from dashi, soy sauce, and mirin, called tentsuyu.
Interestingly, only shrimp and vegetables were used in the original recipe. However, several variations are available today, including chicken tempura and mixed seafood tempura.
Historically, it was commonly believed that consuming Tempura on rainy days was bad luck due to the high possibility of food poisoning originating from the cooking oil used – but rest assured this myth has been debunked as false.
Who knew a ball of octopus, batter, and bonito flakes could be so delicious? Takoyaki: proof that you don’t need fancy ingredients to create a mouth-watering dish.
Takoyaki
A table below shows essential information about Takoyaki.
ColumnValue
Origin Osaka, Japan
Manufacturer
Aizawa Foods Co., Ltd.
Ingredients
Wheat Flour, Dashi Stock, Eggs, Octopus
Cooking Method
Griddle
Serving
As a delicious snack
Takoyaki can be served with mayonnaise or takoyaki sauce, adding texture to this exquisite cuisine. The ideal toppings for Takoyaki are green onions and bonito flakes.
In history, Takoyaki was invented in Osaka by Tomekichi Endo in 1935 as an affordable street food item that the masses could enjoy. This snack has become popular worldwide and is relished in many countries besides Japan.
Okonomiyaki: Sometimes you just want to mix random ingredients and call it a meal.
Okonomiyaki
With its origins dating back centuries, this Japanese savory dish is a filling and customizable favorite among locals and tourists alike. The dish, often called the “Japanese pancake”, consists of a batter base mixed with an assortment of ingredients such as cabbage, pork, seafood, and more. Cooked on a grill and served hot with traditional condiments such as okonomiyaki sauce and kewpie mayo, this dish never disappoints.
Batter mix
A mix of flour and water to form the base of the Okonomiyaki.
Cabbage
Sliced thinly or shredded gives the dish its recognizable texture.
Protein Usual options include pork belly or seafood like squid or shrimp.
Toppings/Sauces
The most popular options include Okonomiyaki sauce, Kewpie mayo, bonito flakes, and green onions.
Notably, in certain regions in Japan like Osaka – Okonomiyaki is cooked directly by the diners themselves on grills at their tables. Popularly known as ‘teppan’, patrons can add toppings of their choice for a unique dining experience.
Legend has it that during World War II, when rice was a scarce commodity in Japan, people resorted to making do with wheat flour leftover from noodle production, giving rise to dishes like Okonomiyaki. Over time different regions have adopted their take on the dish, each with its unique twists and ingredients.
Move over hotdogs, Japanese street food is bringing the heat, and the umami.
Japanese Street Food
To fully immerse yourself in the rich culinary culture of Japan, explore the world of Japanese street food. Delicious and convenient, Japanese street food offers many taste experiences. Whether you crave savory or sweet, you won’t miss yakitori, taiyaki, onigiri, kakigori, and mochi – each with unique flavors and textures.
Yakitori
Grilled Chicken Skewers – Yakitori Style
Popular Japanese street food, Yakitori style refers to grilled chicken skewers barbecued with sauce and typically served as a snack or appetizer.
The table below highlights some of the traditional ingredients used in Yakitori:
IngredientDescription
Chicken Typically made with various cuts of chicken such as breast, thigh or wings
Tare Sauce A special sweet-salty sauce used for glazing the chicken
Skewers Bamboo or metal sticks used for grilling the chicken
Green Onion Thinly sliced green onion is often served alongside Yakitori
A unique aspect of Yakitori is that the skewering technique differs for different chicken parts, so each skewer has a distinct texture and flavor.
To enhance your Yakitori experience, dip each skewer into a bowl of raw egg yolk before biting. It may seem unusual, but the combination creates an unbeatable flavor and texture sensation.
In addition to green onion, other garnish options include shichimi pepper powder or grated daikon radish. These additions add complexity to the dish and help balance out the flavors.
Next time you’re looking for a quick bite at a Japanese street market, give Yakitori a try – it’s truly an authentic taste of Japan.
Who said dessert can’t be fishy? Taiyaki proves them wrong with its delectable fish-shaped waffle filled with sweet red bean paste.
Taiyaki
This popular Japanese dessert goes beyond its name ‘Fish Cake’. It is known as Taiyaki, a sweet and savory delicacy made of fish-shaped cake batter with fillings like chocolate, red bean paste, custard or cheese.
Country of Origin
Japan
Main Ingredient(s)
Cake Batter, Red Bean Paste, Chocolate, Custard or Cheese Filling
Dish Type
Dessert/Snack
Serving Temperature Warm/Room Temperature
Taiyaki provides both texture and flavor that tickles the palate. This delightful treat dates back to the Meiji period(1868-1912) in Japan and holds a significant cultural value amongst the Japanese people.
The interesting thing about Taiyaki is its ability to be modified into different shapes depending on the filling. So, for example, it can come in various animal shapes if used for children’s snacks.
Taiyaki is said to have originated in Tokyo but has since spread throughout Japan and into neighboring countries like Taiwan and South Korea. Its popularity can also be seen worldwide due to its adorable shape and delicious taste.
With a history dating back over 100 years, Taiyaki continues to bring joy to locals and tourists who visit Japan seeking the thrills of street food culture therein.
Onigiri: The perfect food for when you want sushi, but also want to hold something resembling a football.
Onigiri
Onigiri is also known as Omusubi, meaning “hold in the hand.” It is a popular food sold at convenience stores, train stations, and street vendors. A common filling for Onigiri is pickled plum or salmon, but the fillings vary based on regional and seasonal availability. Onigiri’s shape can also be decorated with nori seaweed strips to add texture and flavor to the snack.
Onigiri originated in Japan during the 11th century and has since become a staple food in Japanese cuisine. Despite its simplicity, many people appreciate Onigiri’s versatility and easy-to-eat nature.
A group of friends went to Japan and decided to try traditional Japanese street food. They stumbled upon a street vendor selling Onigiri with unique fillings like eel and cucumber. They were hesitant at first but were surprised by how delicious it was! The Onigiri provided them with an enjoyable experience they will always remember whenever they recall their trip to Japan.
Kakigori is a Japanese shaved ice dessert with sweet syrup and toppings such as condensed milk, mochi, and fruit. Some shops also offer rainbow-colored shaved ice, creating a mountain of shaved ice that looks almost too pretty to eat.
Who needs ice cream when you can have a rainbow mountain of shaved ice with Kakigori? Japanese street food just got a lot cooler.
Kakigori
Cool, Shaved Ice Dessert from Japan – Kakigori is a traditional Japanese dessert made with shaved ice, flavored syrups, and various toppings. It is commonly sold in street food stalls during the summer months.
Please refer to the Table below for more information on Kakigori.
Flavors
Toppings
Price (¥)
Strawberry
Mochi balls
500
Mango Azuki beans
600
Matcha
Cream and red bean paste
700
Try Kaki-Gori with matcha or black sesame seeds flavored ice for a unique twist on this classic treat. These options are relatively new but rapidly gaining popularity due to their distinct taste and attractive appearance.
Top off your Kakigori with a drizzle of condensed milk or fruit syrup. Moreover, avoid using bottled syrups as they contain chemicals and preservatives that may degrade the flavor of your treat.
Mochi might be small, but these sticky rice balls pack a flavor punch that will make you forget about their questionable texture.
Mochi
A popular Japanese treat is a soft, sticky, and chewy confection often made from glutinous rice. This delicacy, commonly called a sweet rice cake, comes in various shapes, sizes and flavours ranging from traditional fillings like red bean paste to more contemporary combinations such as strawberry or green tea. The mochi has been enjoyed for centuries across Japan as a symbol of good luck and prosperity during auspicious occasions like New Year’s Day.
These delicious rice balls are made by pounding steamed glutinous rice with a wooden mallet into a smooth, elastic dough texture. Once the dough is ready, it is cut into small pieces and rolled out into rounds before being filled with various sweet or savoury ingredients. The filling can be anything from sweet red bean paste to savoury fillings like tuna or garlic butter.
For many Japanese, mochi holds special cultural significance because it has been traditionally served at events like weddings or tea ceremonies in Japan. Some festivals across Japan feature massive mochis weighing up to 1000kg carried around on large carts through the streets. Mochi-making has become an art that requires skillful techniques such as timing the pounding perfectly to ensure the right consistency and taste quality.
A friend once told me about how their family would gather yearly for a “mochitsuki” party where everyone would take turns pounding the glutinous rice dough before shaping it into bite-sized treats using wooden molds. This tradition was passed down through their family for generations, and they continue to cherish this unique cultural practice even today.
Move over popcorn, Japan has a whole new level of movie munchies with their unique and delicious snacks.
Unique Japanese Snacks
To discover the unique snacking culture in Japan, check out this section on “Unique Japanese Snacks”. Then, experience the adventurous snacking journey with popular Japanese treats like Pocky, Kit Kat flavors, Umaibo, Botan Rice Candy, and Hello Kitty candies. So get ready to tantalize your taste buds with the variety of flavors that Japan has to offer!
Pocky
Pocky comes in various flavors such as chocolate, strawberry, matcha green tea, cookies and cream, and many more. The original Pocky sticks were launched in 1966 by the Japanese company Ezaki Glico. Pocky has also been adapted for different demographics with varying sweetness and flavor intensity. It is a perfect gift item that people exchange during special events like Valentine’s Day or Christmas. In Japan, regional editions of Pocky use ingredients produced locally. Fans of pocky worldwide have even created games based on the experience of eating it!
One lesser-known fact about Pocky is that the name “Pocky” originated from the sound made when bitten. It is fascinating how the Japanese have taken snacking to a new level with their innovative products.
Japan’s Kit Kat flavors are so unique, you’ll wonder if Willy Wonka himself came out of retirement to create them.
Kit Kat flavors
Indulge in the Multitude of Flavors Offered by Kit Kat
Regarding unique Japanese snacks, Kit Kat chocolates are among the top contenders. These crispy wafers coated in creamy chocolate come in an array of flavors that you won’t find anywhere else.
Here are five examples of the many Kit Kat flavors available:
- Matcha Green Tea
- Sakura Cherry Blossom
- Tokyo Banana
- Wasabi
- Strawberry Cheesecake
It’s not just the outlandish flavors that make these Kit Kats unique; their packaging is also noteworthy. Some even have “lucky charms” attached to them that are believed to bring good luck when gifted.
Consider picking up these memorable and tasty treats if you’re looking for an uncommon souvenir or gift. Each flavor offers a new and exciting experience that will leave a lasting impression on anyone who tries them. And while you’ll never find these flavors in regular stores, they’re widely available through online retailers.
You won’t need to rob a bank to indulge in Umaibo – these puffed corn sticks are a cheap thrill that won’t break the bank (or your teeth).
Umaibo
Umaibo
Affordable and popular Japanese snack
Umaibo is a cylindrical shape made of puffed corn in various flavors. Furthermore, Umaibo has unique flavors such as salad or mentai flavor that are not commonly found in other snacks. Enjoyed by adults and children, its packaging features cute characters such as Doraemon or Anpanman.
A fact about Umaibo is that it was first introduced in 1979 by the snack company Yaokin. (source: nippon.com)
Botan Rice Candy: the traditional Japanese treat that’s as satisfying as popping bubble wrap, minus the guilt.
Botan Rice Candy
A unique Japanese candy made from Botan Rice, this sweet treat is popular for its soft texture and tasty flavor. Here are five things you should know about this snack:
- It is wrapped in an edible rice paper which dissolves in your mouth.
- The candy has a signature floral scent that adds to its appeal.
- Its packaging features the botan flower, a symbol of good luck and prosperity in Japan.
- It first hit the market in the late 19th century and has been a favorite among candy enthusiasts for generations.
- It’s gluten-free, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions.
What sets Botan Rice Candy apart is its unique combination of flavors and texture, making it an essential Japanese snack on your next trip to Japan.
Fun fact: According to sources, “Botan” translates to Peony flower in English.
Who needs a boyfriend when you can have a bag full of Hello Kitty candies that will never ghost you?
Hello Kitty candies
Hello Kitty-themed sweets and snacks are popular among kids and adults in Japan. The cute cartoon cat appears on various candies, chocolates, biscuits, and cakes.
Here are six unique Hello Kitty candies that you should try:
- Hello Kitty Chocolate Marshmallow (chocolate-coated marshmallows shaped like Hello Kitty’s head)
- Hello Kitty Chupa Chups (lollipops with the character’s face imprinted on them)
- Hello Kitty Gummies (soft jelly-like candies in various fruit flavors)
- Hello Kitty Fujiya Look Candy (small button-like candies with a strawberry flavor that come in a collectible tin)
- Hello Kitty Pocky (crispy biscuit sticks dipped in strawberry-flavored chocolate adorned with Hello Kitty prints)
- Hello Kitty Kit Kat (limited edition chocolate bars with mini Hello Kitty faces printed on the packaging)
In addition to these snacks, there are Hello Kitty-themed cafes where you can enjoy desserts and beverages while surrounded by the character’s cheerful decor.
One fan of all things Hello-Kitty recounts her experience of buying a box of limited-edition Hello Kitty pastries. She was delighted with the intricate packaging which featured different images of the cat from all angles. The pastry was soft, fluffy, and had a delicious strawberry flavor—she couldn’t resist buying another box!
Get ready to expand your taste buds with regional specialties that will have you chanting ‘arigato’ for more.
Regional Specialties
Discover Japan’s regional specialties with Hiroshima-style Okonomiyaki, Fukuoka’s Mentaiko, Kyoto’s Yudofu, Osaka’s Kushikatsu, and Hokkaido’s Soup Curry as solutions, delve into the “Regional Specialties” section of the article “Foods You Must Try On Your First Visit To Japan.”
Hiroshima-style Okonomiyaki
Describing a popular regional dish from Hiroshima, this section focuses on the unique and delicious ‘Grilled Layered Okonomiyaki’. This savory pancake is known for its distinct batter, cabbage, noodles and protein layers.
To further illustrate the components of Hiroshima-style Okonomiyaki, a table is provided below:
ComponentDescription
Batter A mixture of flour and dashi broth
Cabbage
Thinly sliced green cabbage
Noodles
Yakisoba noodles pre-cooked with pork belly slices
Protein Sliced pork, shrimp or octopus
Toppings
Okonomiyaki sauce, mayonnaise, bonito flakes and green onions
Apart from these components, the dish has many variations that depend on the restaurant and personal preferences.
It is worth mentioning that unlike its Osaka counterpart, where all ingredients are mixed in a bowl before grilling them to form a flat pancake-like structure; Hiroshima-style Okonomiyaki layers each component on top of each other. This method allows each layer to be grilled separately before being layered up gradually over the base batter.
For those who want to try Hiroshima-style Okonomiyaki, it is important to remember several tips. 1. take small bites as the toppings can easily fall off when cut incorrectly. 2. use chopsticks or a spatula to avoid messing with the structure while eating. Finally, enjoy this unique Japanese specialty’s different textures and flavors!
Move over caviar, Fukuoka’s Mentaiko is the real delicacy worth spreading on toast.
Fukuoka’s Mentaiko
Fukuoka’s famous spicy cod roe, Mentaiko is savory and enjoyed in various forms.
- Preserved in salt for about two weeks, then marinated with spices such as chili and garlic.
- Mentaiko can be found in traditional Japanese dishes like sushi, or served on its own as a snack.
- This delicacy is even used as a topping on pizzas and sandwiches.
Mentaiko has been a local specialty of Fukuoka for over 70 years. Its flavor has gained popularity locally and globally, even becoming a popular souvenir among tourists.
Discovering Mentaiko is an essential experience when visiting Fukuoka. Try grated Mentaiko atop freshly cooked rice or indulge in sushi topped with the specialty; both will ignite taste buds. Or try mixing it with butter and stuffing it into warm croissants.
Embrace the unique flavors of Fukuoka’s Mentaiko by exploring how it can be consumed; you won’t regret it.
Kyoto’s Yudofu is the only tofu dish that can turn even the most carnivorous meat-lovers into a zen master.
Kyoto’s Yudofu
As a regional Japanese specialty, ‘Yudofu’ is a Kyoto-based tofu dish. The unique feature of this cuisine lies in its simplicity – boiled tofu served with accompanying dips.
A table illustrating the essential information about ‘Kyoto’s Yudofu’ is as follows:
Kyoto’s YudofuColumns
Origin Kyoto
Main ingredient
Tofu
Preparation method
Boiled
Served with
Accompanying dips
Despite the essential ingredients and preparation method, what distinguishes ‘Yudofu’ are the varying dipping sauces used to complement it. Some examples include Ponzu sauce, made from citrus juice and soy sauce or Gomadare, which requires sesame paste to be blended with the soy-sauce dip.
It is said that during harsh winters in Kyoto, locals came up with ‘Yudofu’ as it was easy to prepare and provided warmth to ease through the cold weather. One of the most memorable experiences would be visiting Arashiyama’s Sagatofu restaurant where they serve traditional ‘Yudofu’ alongside scenic views of bamboo groves and mountain sides.
Deep-fried everything is the ultimate comfort food, but Osaka’s Kushikatsu takes it to a new level.
ばくさいみやぎふうぞく
Osaka’s popular street food dish, Fried skewers, also known as ‘Kushikatsu’, is a must-try for food enthusiasts. This Japanese specialty dish comprises skewered and deep-fried meat, vegetables, and seafood, often coated in a crispy batter.
A table with the heading ‘Osaka’s Kushikatsu’ can be designed with columns such as ‘Type of Dish’, ‘Ingredients’, ‘Preparation Method’, and ‘Serving Size.’ For instance, Tonkatsu Kushi is made from pork cutlets dipped in panko breadcrumbs before deep-frying. The dish is served with sweet Worcestershire sauce for a savoury taste.
Apart from offering delicious flavours, each Kushikatsu restaurant has its traditional way of serving this delicious platter. Some restaurants serve their Kushikatsu on individual plates while others use bamboo baskets or cone-shaped paper liners. It is fascinating to explore different styles of presentation.
Unexpectedly, this crispy yet juicy snack was only sometimes readily available. Kushikatsu started during World War II due to extreme food shortages when people used scraps of leftover meat to create filling meals to avoid hunger. However, after the war ended, entrepreneurs began opening specialised kushikatsu shops that have become an iconic part of Osakan cuisine.
Hokkaido’s soup curry: More sippable than a Kardashian’s smoothie.
Hokkaido’s Soup Curry
Hokkaido’s unique and flavorful Soup Curry is a must-try for any foodie. This hearty dish combines the richness of curry with the lightness of soup, resulting in a perfect harmony of taste and texture.
The dish originated in Sapporo in the 1970s and has become a regional specialty. It typically features chicken or seafood mixed with vegetables such as potatoes, carrots, and onions in a curry-based broth, adding a mild spice. Each restaurant has its distinct style, from watery consommé-like soups to thicker gravy sauces.
What sets Hokkaido’s Soup Curry apart from traditional Japanese curry is its lighter texture, emphasizing soup more than rice and meat. Even though it is considered less fatty, it is still packed with incredible flavor that can only be found in this region of Japan.
Don’t miss out on enjoying Hokkaido’s Soup Curry when you visit Japan. Whether for breakfast, lunch or dinner, there are various restaurants where you can try this regional specialty for yourself!
Eating sushi is like a game of Russian roulette, except instead of bullets you’re risking a mouthful of wasabi.
