Itadakimasu!
Japan has quickly become one of the most traveled destinations around the world– with its rich culture, beautiful locations, and most importantly, its delicious food; we’ve really missed this East Asian country.
Whether it’s at expensive sushi restaurants, or at the infamous Tsukiji market, the food in Japan continues to be in a class of its own, and it holds a special place in our hearts…and our stomachs.
1. Sushi
If there’s one dish you can’t miss out on in Japan, it’s sushi. No matter the price point, the sushi in Japan is fresh, simple, and authentic. All of its flavor relies solely on the taste of the ingredients, the freshness of fish, and the way they are mixed together to create a tiny roll that packs a punch.
There are surely many sushi restaurants in Japan, but another experience you might want to look into is sushi-making, where you get to experience putting together this delicacy yourself.
Source: Pexels
2. Ramen
When it comes to Japanese food, ramen easily earns its spot as one of the most popular dishes the cuisine has in its roster. This broth-based Japanese food is packed with various ingredients like pork, vegetables, spices, egg, and other side dishes.
It’s perfect for chilly weather or when you just want to enjoy a hot bowl of soup. Best of all? You can drink straight from the bowl!
Source: Max Pixel
3. Omurice
Omurice is a very popular dish in Japan, especially for children. It’s a simple dish made up of fried rice topped with an omelet, and usually topped with ketchup.
Rice and eggs are some of the most used ingredients in Japanese cooking, so it’s no surprise a dish like this was born. A famous omurice is the one made by chef Yukimura Motikichi in his restaurant Kichi Kichi in Kyoto. Making the omurice becomes a spectacle, so much so that your eyes are full before the food even hits the table.
Source: Pixabay
4. Curry Rice
Speaking of rice, there is no missing out on Japan’s national dish: the curry rice. Curry in Japan is a simple mix of the curry sauce, rice, and a choice of meats and vegetables.
It’s a favorite by many for its rich flavors, various ingredients, and overall just the delicious taste of Japanese curry. Curry rice can come in different forms, usually with pork but also with options for chicken or beef.
5. Wagyu
Wagyu is the beef that comes from Japanese cattle. It’s continuously regarded as some of the most delicious cuts of meat all over the world, for its soft texture, and delicious flavor-profile.
There are many ways to enjoy wagyu, though the simplest and most traditional way to enjoy it is to cook it in high heat as steak, in order to really bring out a lot of the delicious fats and flavors of this delicate product. Nevertheless, this juicy piece of meat isn’t something you wanna miss the next time you’re trying out food in Japan.
Source: Unsplash
6. Yakitori
When the smell of Yakitori hits you as you walk down the busy streets of Japan, it’s really hard to say no to a bite.
Yakitori is essentially barbecued chicken, a skewer of bite-sized chicken that’s brushed with a sauce of rice wine, soy sauce, and other ingredients.
The most common variation is one made with chicken breast, but you can also enjoy it in different ways like with chicken meatballs or a personal favorite, chicken skin. Yummm.
7. Tempura
What do you call a dish with seafood breaded with batter and deep fried to crispy perfection? No it isn’t fish and chips; it’s the delicious delicacy known as Tempura.
Tempura is technically any piece of meat, fish, or vegetables that’s been coated in a special tempura batter. But the most common variants are those made with shellfish, especially shrimps and prawns.
This dish is known for being a perfect mix of crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside, and is best enjoyed over rice or noodles.
8. Ichigo World Strawberries
You might be thinking to yourself: strawberries? But Ichigo World’s Strawberries are some of the tastiest strawberries out there. Cultivated in specific conditions, the strawberries here are sweet and juicy and are ripe for the taking. The best part? There’s even chocolate dipping available. Yummm.
Source: Stock Snap
The sheer variety of Japan’s cuisine is really enough to make any visitor yearn for more. With the unique options, and the way the dishes are delicately prepared to maximize flavor, the food in Japan is all the reason we need to come back to this beautiful country.
IMPORTANT NOTE: Be a responsible traveler! All information on this post are accurate from the time of writing. Rules, regulations and guidelines are updated frequently and may change without Klook’s prior notice. For your safety, check with the respective LGU’s and establishments directly before your travels.
