Japan Food Travel Guide

What to Eat & Where to Find It

Photo of Kani Doraku crab restaurant in Dotonbori Osaka Japan.

At Japan Travel Pros, we know that food in Japan is one of the most popular reasons for people to travel here. That’s why we’ve assembled this food guide as a handy resource.

From the delicate art of sushi to the hearty comfort of ramen, from a seemingly endless array of food halls to high-end kaiseki dinners, this guide covers what to eat, where to eat it and how to make the most of your culinary journey through Japan.

1. Sushi in Japan: The OG

Sushi is perhaps Japan’s most iconic dish in the eyes of the world. What started as a method of preserving fish in fermented rice has evolved into a culinary art form. Sushi comes in many forms, from the simple and elegant nigiri to elaborate rolls and regional specialties. 

Types of Sushi to Try

  • Nigiri: A slice of raw or cooked fish placed on a small mound of vinegared rice. This is the most traditional form of sushi

  • Sashimi: Thinly sliced raw fish or seafood served without rice. Often enjoyed with soy sauce and wasabi

  • Maki: Rolled sushi, where rice and fillings like fish, vegetables, or pickles are wrapped in seaweed (nori) and sliced into bite-sized pieces

  • Temaki: Hand-rolled sushi cones, filled with rice, fish & vegetables, wrapped in nori

  • Oshizushi: A type of sushi where the ingredients are pressed into a rectangular shape using a wooden mold

Where to Find the Best Sushi in Japan

Tokyo

Japan’s capital city is home to some of the best sushi in the world. Where is the best sushi in Tokyo? That’s a timeless debate, and there really is no one right answer. From kaiten sushi (conveyor belt sushi) eateries to omakase multi-course sushi splurges, and a whole range of Edo-mae sushi in between, it’s hard to go wrong with sushi in Tokyo.

Osaka & Kyoto

Known for its vibrant food culture, Osaka offers excellent sushi at places like Endo Sushi, which has been serving sushi for over a century. Nearby Kyoto, while better known for its traditional kaiseki cuisine, offers delights to sushi lovers at places like Izuju, famous for its sabazushi (mackerel sushi).

Tohoku & Hokkaido – Sushi, Sashimi & Kaisendon in Japan’s North

Northern Japan, from the Tohoku region up to Hokkaido, enjoys a well-earned reputation for some of the finest seafood in Japan. This includes amazing sushi and sashimi, of course, as well as kaisendon – a Japanese favorite consisting of raw fish on a rice bowl (but vinegar is not added to the rice). You can enjoy delectable kaisendon at the markets of Otaru, Aomori, Matsushima & Shiogama, among many others. Of course, ducking into pretty much any sushi shop up here is going to be great as well!

Etiquette of Eating Sushi

When eating sushi, there are a few key points of etiquette to keep in mind. First, it's perfectly acceptable to eat sushi with your hands, though chopsticks are also commonly used. If you're eating nigiri, dip the fish side (not the rice) into the soy sauce to avoid soaking the rice. Eating ginger (gari) between pieces of sushi is meant to cleanse your palate, not to be eaten with the sushi itself. Lastly, it’s polite to eat the sushi in one bite, savoring the balance of flavors created by the chef.

Photo of a bowl of ramen noodle soup in Japan.

2. Ramen in Japan: Comfort Food in a Bowl

Ramen, a dish that was originally imported from China, has become a beloved staple in Japan. Ramen in Japan typically consists of Chinese-style wheat noodles served in a meat or fish-based broth, often flavored with soy sauce or miso and topped with ingredients such as sliced pork, nori, menma (bamboo shoots) and/or green onions.

Ramen's popularity exploded in Japan after World War II, as it was both filling and affordable. Today, ramen shops (ramen-ya) can be found throughout Japan, each region (and even town) with its own twist on the classic recipe.

Types of Ramen

  • Shoyu Ramen: The most common type of ramen, featuring a soy sauce-based broth that is clear, brown & savory

  • Miso Ramen: Originating from Hokkaido, miso ramen has a rich, nutty flavor, thanks to the fermented soybean paste used in the broth

  • Tonkotsu Ramen: A Kyushu specialty, tonkotsu ramen has a creamy, pork bone-based broth that is rich and hearty

  • Shio Ramen: The oldest form of ramen, shio (salt) ramen has a light, clear broth that highlights the flavor of the chicken or pork bones used

  • Tsukemen: This is a dipping ramen where the noodles and broth are served separately; noodles are dipped into the broth, which is often thicker and more intense in flavor

Where to Find the Best Ramen in Japan

  • Tokyo: For the best ramen in Tokyo, visit Ichiran or Ippudo, both famous for their tonkotsu ramen. Another popular spot is Ramen Street in Tokyo Station, where you can try different styles of ramen from all over Japan.

  • Osaka: Osaka's ramen scene is equally vibrant, with shops like Hanamaruken and Kamukura serving up delicious bowls of noodles.

  • Kyushu: As the birthplace of tonkotsu ramen, Kyushu is a must-visit for ramen lovers. Head to Hakata in Fukuoka for authentic tonkotsu ramen at shops like Shinshin and Ikkousha.

Tips for Enjoying Ramen in Japan Like a Local

One thing you'll notice when eating ramen in Japan is the sound of slurping. While it might seem impolite elsewhere, in Japan, slurping your noodles is a sign that you're enjoying your meal. It also helps to cool the hot noodles as you eat. Another tip is to eat your ramen quickly; noodles left in broth for too long can become soggy, so dive in while they're still firm. Also, experiencing ramen in Japan is probably faster than you’d expect – it’s meant to be served quickly, eaten at a comfortable enough pace, but not for the customer to linger afterwards.

Photo of a bowl of Japanese curry rice served at a restaurant in Tokyo Japan.

3. Curry in Japan: A Twist on India's Original

Curry may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Japanese cuisine, but it holds a special place in the hearts (and stomachs) of many Japanese people. Japanese curry (kare) was introduced to Japan by the British during the Meiji era and has since become a staple dish, especially in homes and casual dining establishments.

Unlike Indian or Thai curries, Japanese curry is thicker, milder and often sweeter. It is typically served with rice, with common toppings including breaded and fried pork cutlets (katsu), boiled eggs and fukujinzuke (sweet pickles).

Different Styles of Japanese Curry

  • Katsu Curry: One of the most popular variations, featuring a breaded and deep-fried pork cutlet served on top of curry rice

  • Vegetable Curry: A milder option, often featuring a variety of vegetables like potatoes, carrots and onions

  • Seafood Curry: A variation that includes seafood like shrimp, squid or fish in the curry sauce

  • Black Curry: A specialty in some regions, this curry is made with dark, rich ingredients like squid ink or roasted onions

Where to Eat the Best Curry in Japan

  • Curry Chains: For a quick and satisfying meal, head to popular curry chains like CoCo Ichibanya, which allows you to customize your curry with different spice levels and toppings

  • Tokyo: For a more gourmet experience, visit curry shops like Bondy in Jinbocho, known for its rich, flavorful curry and extensive menu

  • Osaka: In Osaka, stop by Kare-ya Zen in Namba for a taste of their famous black curry

  • Anywhere in Japan: No really, just hit up Google Maps and look for a local curry shop near you; anything with a star rating of 3.5+ is bound to be good

The Experience: What to Expect When Eating Curry in Japan

Japanese curry rice is a comforting dish that’s just right on a cold day. When ordering, you’ll often be asked about your preferred level of spiciness, so don’t hesitate to customize your dish. Most curry shops will also offer a selection of toppings, from cheese to natto, allowing you to create a dish that’s uniquely yours. Curry shops in Japan often have counter seating or small booths available, making it an ideal eating option for solo travelers in Japan (though couples and families all enjoy curry in Japan as well).

4. Other Must-Try Japanese Eats in Japan

Tempura

Tempura is a dish that involves seafood, vegetables or even herbs lightly battered and deep-fried to a crispy perfection. The batter is made from cold water and flour, and it’s mixed just before frying to ensure a light and airy texture. Tempura is often served with a dipping sauce made from dashi (Japanese broth), soy sauce and mirin, or simply with salt.

Where to Find the Best Tempura: For an authentic experience, visit a tempura restaurant like Tempura Kondo in Tokyo, where each piece is fried to order. In Kyoto, Ten-you is renowned for its delicate tempura.

Soba & Udon

Soba (buckwheat noodles) and udon (thick wheat noodles) are two of Japan’s most popular noodle dishes, often enjoyed both hot and cold.

  • Where to Find the Best Soba and Udon: In Tokyo, try soba at Kanda Matsuya, a centuries-old soba shop. For udon, visit “sanuki udon” chains like Marugame Seimen, or head to Kagawa Prefecture on Shikoku island for the most authentic experience.

Yakitori

Yakitori refers to skewered and grilled chicken, often seasoned with salt or a tare sauce (a sweet soy-based sauce). It's a popular dish at izakayas (Japanese pubs) and yakitori specialty shops.

Where to Find the Best Yakitori: Omoide Yokocho in Shinjuku, Tokyo, is a narrow alley filled with tiny yakitori shops where you can experience this dish in a vibrant atmosphere. In Kyoto, Torisei is a well-known yakitori restaurant group with a long history.

Photo of Osaka street food treat takoyaki at Tacopa in Osaka Japan.

5. Regional Japanese Cuisine

Hokkaido – Seafood Paradise

Hokkaido, Japan’s northernmost island, is famous for its incredibly fresh seafood. The cold waters around the island are rich in marine life, making it a haven for seafood lovers.

  • Crab: Hokkaido is known for its delicious crab, especially in winter; you can enjoy it boiled, grilled or as part of a hot pot.

  • Uni (Sea Urchin): Hokkaido is also famous for its creamy, buttery uni, often served as sushi or sashimi (and on kaisendon seafood rice bowls)

  • Ikura (Salmon Roe): These bright orange roe are another Hokkaido specialty, and they’re great on top of sushi or kaisendon

Sapporo’s Signature Dishes

  • Sapporo Ramen: Sapporo, the capital of Hokkaido, is known for its miso ramen; Ramen Alley in Susukino is the place to go for a bowl of this hearty dish

  • Jingisukan: Named after Genghis Khan, this dish consists of grilled mutton and vegetables, cooked on a convex iron pan; it’s a popular dish in Sapporo, especially in beer gardens like the Sapporo Beer Garden

Kansai Region

Osaka: Japan’s Kitchen

Osaka is often referred to as "Japan's Kitchen" for its food culture. The city is famous for its hearty food, and no visit is complete without trying some of these local specialties.

  • Takoyaki: These octopus-filled dough balls are a quintessential Osaka street food, found at street stalls and specialty shops throughout the city

  • Okonomiyaki: Often described as a Japanese pancake or pizza, okonomiyaki is a savory dish made with flour, eggs, shredded cabbage, and various toppings like pork, seafood, and cheese; The batter is cooked on a griddle and then topped with mayonnaise, okonomiyaki sauce, bonito flakes & seaweed.

Kyoto: Eating in the Historic Capital

Kyoto, the ancient capital of Japan, is known for its refined and delicate cuisine, heavily influenced by the city’s imperial heritage.

  • Kaiseki: This multi-course meal is the epitome of Japanese haute cuisine, focusing on seasonal ingredients prepared with great care; dining at a kaiseki restaurant in Kyoto is a cultural experience as much as a culinary one

  • Yudofu: This simple dish of boiled tofu, often served with dipping sauces and vegetables, is a Kyoto specialty; it’s a must-try for vegetarians and those interested in experiencing a different cuisine that’s delicious & healthy

Kyushu: Tonkotsu Ramen and Beyond

Kyushu, located in the southwest of Japan, is known for its hearty dishes, the most famous of which is tonkotsu ramen.

  • Hakata Ramen: This style of ramen, originating from Fukuoka, features a creamy pork bone broth and thin, straight noodles; it's a dish that has gained popularity all over Japan and around the world

  • Mentaiko: Spicy cod roe, known as mentaiko, is another Kyushu specialty, often served as a topping for rice or pasta(!)

  • Kagoshima’s Black Pork: Kagoshima, at the southern tip of Kyushu, is famous for its black pork (kurobuta); the meat is prized for its tenderness and rich flavor and is often enjoyed as tonkatsu (breaded and fried pork cutlet) or shabu-shabu (hot pot)

Okinawa – a Taste of the Tropics

Okinawa, a collection of islands forming Japan’s southernmost prefecture, has a unique food culture influenced by its subtropical climate and history as the independent Ryukyu Kingdom. Okinawan cuisine is distinct from mainland Japanese food, with an emphasis on pork, sweet potatoes and unique local vegetables.

  • Goya Champuru: This stir-fried dish is made with bitter melon (goya), tofu, pork & eggs, and it's a staple of Okinawan home cooking

  • Okinawa Soba: Unlike standard mainland Japanese soba made from buckwheat, Okinawa soba is made from wheat and has a chewier texture; served in a clear broth and topped with pork belly, fish cake & green onions

Awamori: A distilled rice liquor unique to Okinawa, Awamori is often enjoyed with water and ice or in cocktails

Photo of hotpot motsu nabe and dining patrons in a restaurant in Hakata Fukuoka Kyushu Japan.

6. Dining Experiences in Japan

Kaiseki: The Art of Japanese Fine Dining

Kaiseki is the pinnacle of Japanese haute cuisine, a multi-course meal that balances taste, texture, appearance and seasonal ingredients. Originating from the Japanese tea ceremony, kaiseki has evolved into an elaborate dining experience that reflects the beauty and simplicity of Japanese culture.

A kaiseki meal is composed of several small dishes, each showcasing a different cooking technique and seasonal ingredient. A typical kaiseki might include:

  • Sakizuke: An appetizer that sets the tone for the meal

  • Hassun: A seasonal platter, often featuring sushi, sashimi & other small bites

  • Mukozuke: Sashimi, typically served with freshly grated wasabi & soy sauce

  • Takiawase: A simmered dish, often featuring vegetables & fish

  • Yakimono: A grilled dish, often featuring fish or meat

  • Mushimono: A steamed dish, such as chawanmushi (savory egg custard)

  • Suimono: A clear soup, often served towards the end of the meal.

  • Dessert: A light, often fruit-based dessert to cleanse the palate.

Kyoto is the best place to experience kaiseki dining in Japan, with many restaurants offering this lovely meal in a refined, often historic setting. Some renowned kaiseki restaurants include Hanasaki, Kikunoi, Hyotei and Roan Kikunoi. Tokyo also has excellent kaiseki options, such as Ishikawa in Kagurazaka and Ryugin in Ginza/Yurakucho.

Izakaya: Japanese Pubs

An izakaya is a type of Japanese pub where people gather after work to drink and enjoy a variety of small dishes. It’s a casual and lively atmosphere; ideal for socializing and trying a range of Japanese food.

Popular Izakaya Dishes

  • Yakitori: Skewered and grilled chicken, often seasoned with salt or tare sauce

  • Edamame: Boiled and salted soybeans, a common starter

  • Agedashi Tofu: Deep-fried tofu in a dashi-based broth, topped with green onions and grated daikon

  • Karaage: Japanese-style fried chicken, usually served with a wedge of lemon and mayonnaise

  • Sashimi: Fresh slices of raw fish, served with soy sauce and wasabi

Where to Experience Izakaya Culture

  • Tokyo: Omoide Yokocho in Shinjuku is a famous alley lined with tiny izakayas, each with its own unique character; Ebisu Yokocho is another popular spot with a more modern vibe

  • Osaka: The Namba area is full of lively izakayas, in neighborhoods such as Hozenji Yokocho, Sennichimae among others

Street Food in Japan

Japanese street food is a unique twist, with stalls offering everything from savory snacks to sweet treats.

  • Takoyaki: Octopus balls, especially popular in Osaka

  • Taiyaki: Fish-shaped pastries filled with sweet red bean paste

  • Yakisoba: Stir-fried noodles, often topped with bonito flakes and pickled ginger

  • Yatai: Mobile food stalls, especially common during festivals, offering a variety of street food

Where to Find the Best Street Food

  • Osaka: Dotonbori (albeit touristy) is a hub of street food in Osaka, with countless stalls selling takoyaki, okonomiyaki & more

  • Tokyo: Ameyokocho is a great place to try local street foods; so are shotengai such as Yanaka Ginza & Jizo-dori

  • Fukuoka: Known for its yatai, Fukuoka offers a variety of street foods, with Hakata Ramen being a must-try

  • Festivals: This is the original Japanese street food, and it’s what most Japanese people would associate with the concept; if your visit coincides with a local festival, you’re in luck!

Photo of vegetarian Japanese food tofu in restaurant in Kyoto Japan.

7. Navigating Dietary Restrictions in Japan

Vegetarian and Vegan Options: Challenges & Solutions

Japan was not traditionally vegetarian or vegan-friendly, as many dishes contain dashi (fish broth) or other animal products. However, the growing interest in vegetarianism and veganism has led to an increase in plant-based options, especially in major cities.

Where to Find Vegetarian and Vegan Food

  • Tokyo: T's Tantan in Tokyo Station is a popular vegan ramen shop. Ain Soph is another great vegan restaurant with several locations in Tokyo (and one in Kyoto too)

  • Kyoto: Kyoto has a strong Buddhist vegetarian tradition, and places like Shigetsu in the Tenryu-ji Temple offer shojin ryori, a traditional Buddhist vegetarian meal

  • Osaka: Paprika Shokudo Vegan in Osaka offers a wide range of vegan dishes, from Japanese-style curries to burgers

  • Around Japan: Travelers often rely on the Happy Cow website for information on where to eat vegetarian & vegan food in Japan

Gluten-Free Dining: Soy Sauce & Other Japanese Food Challenges

Gluten-free dining can be challenging in Japan due to the prevalence of soy sauce, which contains wheat. However, awareness of gluten intolerance is increasing, and more restaurants are offering gluten-free options.

Tips for Gluten-Free Travelers

  • Look for Gluten-Free Labels: Some supermarkets and convenience stores now carry gluten-free products, often labeled in English

  • Communicate Clearly: Use a gluten-free dining card in Japanese to explain your dietary needs; these cards can be found online and are helpful in restaurants

  • Where to Eat: Pizzeria GT in Tokyo offers gluten-free pizza, and many higher-end sushi restaurants can accommodate gluten-free requests by using tamari instead of soy sauce

8. Etiquette When Eating in Japan

Do's and Don'ts – Basic Table Manners

Japanese dining etiquette is rooted in respect and mindfulness. Here are some key points to keep in mind:

  • Use Chopsticks Correctly: Never point with your chopsticks, pass food directly from one set of chopsticks to another, or stick chopsticks upright in a bowl of rice, as these are associated with funerary practices

  • Say "Itadakimasu" and "Gochisosama": Before eating, say "Itadakimasu" (I humbly receive), and after finishing, say "Gochisosama" (Thank you for the meal)

  • Don’t Pour Your Own Drink: In Japanese culture, it's polite to pour drinks for others rather than yourself; when someone pours for you, hold your glass with both hands and take a sip before putting it down

  • Slurping is Okay: In Japan, it’s perfectly acceptable to slurp your noodles, as it’s seen as a sign of enjoying the meal and helps to cool down the hot broth

  • Use a Spoon for Broth: When eating ramen or udon, use the provided spoon to drink the broth rather than lifting the bowl to your mouth

Tipping Culture – No Tipping in Japan

Tipping is not practiced in Japan, and in some cases, it can even be seen as rude. Exceptional service is considered the standard, and a simple "thank you" is sufficient. If you want to show appreciation, writing a nice review on Google and mentioning staff by name is appreciated.

Alcohol Etiquette – Drinking Customs

Drinking plays a significant role in Japanese social and business life, with some important customs to observe.

  • Kampai: Always wait for everyone to have a drink and for someone to propose a toast (usually "Kampai!") before taking your first sip

Pouring for Others: As mentioned, it’s customary to pour drinks for others; be attentive and refill others’ glasses when they are empty, but also make sure your glass is refilled by someone else.

Photo of sakura mochi sweet sticky rice wrapped in cherry leaf during cherry blossom festival in Tokyo Japan.

9. Food Festivals & Events: Celebrate the Seasons in Japan

Cherry Blossom Season (Sakura)

Spring in Japan is synonymous with cherry blossoms, and hanami (flower viewing) parties are a beloved tradition. During this season, many food stalls pop up in parks, offering seasonal treats like sakura mochi (sweet rice cakes wrapped in cherry blossom leaves) and hanami dango (colorful rice dumplings).

Autumn Harvest Festivals

In autumn, Japan celebrates the harvest with various food festivals. These festivals often feature seasonal produce like chestnuts, sweet potatoes, and mushrooms. One of the most famous is the Nihonbashi Ebisu-ko Bettara Ichi in Tokyo, where you can sample bettara-zuke, a sweet and salty pickled radish.

Food-Themed Events

Ramen Expo

Held annually in various cities, the Ramen Expo is a must-visit for noodle lovers. This event brings together ramen shops from all over Japan, each offering their unique take on the beloved dish.

Sake Festivals

Sake is an integral part of Japanese culture, and there are numerous sake festivals throughout the year. One of the most famous is the Nada Kenka Matsuri in Hyogo Prefecture, where you can sample a wide variety of sake while enjoying traditional floats and performances.

Gyoza Festivals

Gyoza, or Japanese dumplings, are another popular dish with their own dedicated festivals. The Utsunomiya Gyoza Festival in Tochigi Prefecture is one of the largest, celebrating the city’s reputation as the gyoza capital of Japan.

Eating in Japan: An Integral Part of Your Trip

We’re constantly expanding and updating this food guide to Japan.

You might also want to check out our article on Japanese food abroad compared to what you can expect in Japan.

Don’t see what you’re looking for? Got a suggestion or question? Please feel free to get in touch with us.

Happy food travels!


Stay Tuned: More to Come in Your Japan Food Travel Guide

We’re constantly expanding and updating this food guide to Japan.

Don’t see what you’re looking for? Got a suggestion or question? Please feel free to get in touch with us.

Happy food travels!

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