We present the must-try Japanese food you should definitely eat in Japan.
Sushi / 寿司（OMAKASE）
Yakiniku / 焼肉
Yakitori / 焼き鳥
Shabu-Shabu / しゃぶしゃぶ鍋
Izakaya food / 居酒屋
1. Sushi / 寿司 (鮨)
One of the most famous foods in Japan. Fresh seafood is placed on top of vinegared rice. It is a dish that showcases the high quality of Japanese seafood. It may seem like a simple dish, but becoming a sushi chef requires over ten years of training.
There are various styles of sushi, from traditional nigiri to inventive maki rolls. Sushi is not just food; it is an art form that has been perfected over centuries.
In recent years, eating sushi through "OMAKASE" has become extremely popular, and if you travel to Japan, it's definitely something you should try.
Japanese-style BBQ, known as "yakiniku," involves grilling bite-sized pieces of meat and vegetables on a roaster at your table. You can choose your preferred cuts and cook them to your liking. You can enjoy a wide variety of meats, from reasonably priced options to famous Wagyu beef.
In recent years, "all-you-can-eat" yakiniku restaurants with table ordering have become increasingly popular, and they are very well-loved by locals. Japanese Wagyu is renowned as some of the finest beef in the world, so it’s definitely worth trying.
"Yakitori" refers to skewered chicken grilled over charcoal. Various parts of the chicken are used, each offering a unique flavor. The most common cuts are "momo" (thigh) and "skin," and these are often enjoyed with beer at casual izakayas.
This dish has been loved by Japanese people for a long time and is popular both as street food and for casual dining. While it is often seasoned with either a special sauce or salt, I highly recommend trying it with the sauce.
A hot pot dish where diners cook thin slices of meat and vegetables in a simmering broth at the table. Named after the "Shabu-Shabu" sound of stirring ingredients in the pot. Typically features high-quality beef, but pork and chicken versions exist. Dip cooked items in ponzu or sesame sauce. A fun, interactive dining experience, perfect for groups.
An izakaya is a casual Japanese dining establishment that combines elements of a pub and a restaurant. The menu at an izakaya is highly diverse, offering a range of dishes from small appetizers to substantial meals. Additionally, izakayas are popular for enjoying alcoholic beverages, with a variety of drinks available.
There is no strict dress code or formal dining etiquette, making izakayas a relaxed and casual dining option. There are various types of izakayas, such as those specializing in seafood or those excelling in traditional Japanese cuisine. If you want to experience a wide range of Japanese dishes, an izakaya is highly recommended.
