Traditional Food in Japan is based on fresh, local ingredients, with minimal processing, highlighting instead the natural flavors of the food. Fish, rice, noodles, and vegetables are some staples that make up the basis of most Japanese diets. Some popular traditional dishes include sushi, ramen, tempura, soba, tonkatsu and okonomiyaki.
Japanese cuisine emphasizes variety and balance. This is achieved through the use of five colors (black, white, red, yellow, and green), five cooking techniques (raw food, grilling, steaming, boiling, and frying), and five flavors (sweet, spicy, salty, sour, and bitter). These principles can be found even in a single meal of one soup and three sides paired with rice.
Sushi is one of the most famous foods to come from Japan. It originated from the process of preserving fish in fermented rice. Today it’s made with vinegared rice and fresh fish. Tempura is a dish of battered and fried fish or vegetables. Special care is given to the way the ingredients are cut as well as to the temperature of the batter (ice cold) and oil (very hot) for deep-frying.
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Seige (せいげ)
Fukui Prefecture during the colder months will make you likely encounter the inviting aroma of Seige, a humble yet hearty crab dish that captures the essence of coastal life in Japan. This local specialty from the Kono district in Minami... -
Shimotsukare (しもつかれ)
Shimotsukare is a unique and traditional dish from the Tochigi and Ibaraki prefectures in Japan. Often described as a rustic and hearty stew, it's a dish with a long history and a distinctive flavor profile. Therefore, this article will ... -
Yuzu maki (ゆず巻き)
Yuzu maki is a distinctive dish from Japan’s Tochigi Prefecture. Made by rolling fragrant yuzu citrus peel inside a thin slice of daikon radish, this pickled delicacy stands out for its simple yet aromatic flavor. This article will provi... -
Oroshi soba (おろしそば)
Explore the bold, refreshing world of Oroshi Soba—a beloved noodle dish that defines Fukui Prefecture’s culinary identity. With its striking flavors and deep historical roots, this simple yet powerful meal continues to draw food lovers f... -
Japan’s 2025 Christmas Cake Landscape
Christmas cake in Japan is a simple and beloved holiday tradition. It's a special dessert that has become a big part of how families celebrate the season. This year, you’ll see both the classic strawberry shortcakes that everyone loves a... -
Hamana miso (はまな味噌)
Hamana miso brings the deep, savory charm of traditional Japanese fermentation straight to your plate. This bold and aromatic miso-based side dish doesn’t just enhance the taste of rice—it tells a story of history, migration, and regiona... -
Bandai mochi (ばんだい餅)
Japan's rich culinary history is full of unique local dishes, and one such treasure is Bandai mochi from the mountainous regions of Tochigi Prefecture. Unlike the sticky rice cakes you might be familiar with, this dish offers a different... -
Kate soba (かてそば)
In the heart of Japan, the mountainous and agricultural prefecture of Tochigi holds a culinary secret that speaks volumes about its history and culture: Kate soba (かてそば). This article will take you on a journey to discover the unique... -
Tochi otome (とちおとめ)
The Tochi otome strawberry, or とちおとめ, is a symbol of Japan's dedication to agricultural excellence and a treat cherished across the country. Known for its perfect balance of sweetness and acidity, this strawberry has become a belove... -
Mimi udon (耳うどん)
In the heart of Japan's Tochigi Prefecture lies a culinary secret known as Mimi Udon. This local specialty is full in terms of history and folklore, with a shape that holds a special meaning. This article will take you on a journey to ex...