What to Eat in Japan? 29+ most popular, traditional & must try foods in Japan

What to eat in Japan? Pocket these delicious Japanese dishes worthy of being a specialty. Surely you can learn more about the colorful Japanese cuisine. Now, let’s check out 29+ most popular, traditional & must try foods in Japan below!

Japan is not only famous for its natural beauty and diverse culture, but also a culinary paradise with typical dishes from different regions. Discovering unique Japanese cuisine from all regions is an exciting and fascinating journey for the foodies.

From Tokyo’s famous sushi to Hokkaido’s rich ramen, from Kyoto’s delicate Omakase snails to Osaka’s signature Okonomiyaki sauce, each region has its own typical dishes, bearing the cultural imprint and culinary quintessence of the Land of the Rising Sun. Let’s explore Japan’s diverse cuisine with us through delicious and unique Japanese dishes.

What to Eat in Japan? Typical Japanese Dishes Not to Be Missed

Japanese cuisine is an extremely unique and attractive highlight of the culture of the cherry blossom country. With the perfect combination of fresh ingredients and the meticulousness and sophistication in each stage from processing to presenting the dish, each Japanese dish is a work of art that blends excellent flavor and delicate beauty.

Sushi – Famous Japanese Dish

Sushi – A famous dish not only in Japan but also around the world. With the unique combination of vinegared rice and fresh seafood such as tuna, oysters, abalone, salmon, shrimp, … Sushi brings a rich, delicate and irresistible flavor.

In addition, when enjoying sushi, you also combine spices such as wasabi, chopped ginger, soy sauce and raw vegetables such as cucumber, pickled radish, … All create a premium meal with the perfect blend of flavor, color and shape of each sushi dish.

Sashimi – Enjoy Fresh Fish & Seafood in Japan

Sashimi, a dish considered a masterpiece in Japanese cuisine, is not only beautiful but also attractive with the variety of fresh seafood. Salmon, tuna, mackerel, saba fish, puffer fish, squid, octopus and shrimp are sliced ​​into thin slices and arranged on a plate.

When eating, you can combine with soy sauce, soy sauce or spices such as mustard, ginger, perilla leaves and shredded white radish to enhance the flavor of each type of seafood. Sashimi brings the soft, chewy, crispy and fatty feeling of each type of seafood, making anyone who enjoys this dish addicted.

Must try foods in Japan: Tempura – Japanese Fried Dish, Foodies Really Loves

An extremely attractive and popular Japanese dish that cannot be missed is Tempura. Made from a variety of ingredients such as shrimp, fresh seasonal fish, mushrooms, vegetables, … This dish is covered with a mixture of eggs, water and flour and then fried in hot oil. The crispy, delicious taste of tempura makes anyone who has enjoyed it unforgettable.

Sake – Alcoholic Drink Representing Japanese Cuisine

Sake is a special drink of the Japanese people with a meaning that goes beyond simply satisfying the need to enjoy. It is a symbol of culture and religion, connecting people with people and people with gods. In the cold winter, a cup of warm Sake can make your body feel comfortable. In the hot summer, a cup of cold Sake will help you feel more refreshed and refreshed. The unique, sweet flavor of Sake will make you remember it forever.

Miso Soup – A Warm Japanese Dish for Winter

Miso Soup – One of the traditional dishes of Japanese cuisine brings a wonderful taste experience to diners. The main ingredient of this dish is Miso paste, mixed with fish stock (Dashi), Wakame seaweed and delicious tofu. Sipping a sip of Miso soup, you will feel the cool, sweet flavor and the characteristic richness of Dashi.

Experiencing the Cooking Course in Asakusa will be an extremely interesting activity for those who are passionate about cuisine, especially those who want to learn how to make delicious Temari Sushi and Miso Soup. With the companionship of a guide and friends with similar interests, you will feel extremely excited!

Enjoy Famous Osaka Cuisine

If you have had the opportunity to visit Japan, you certainly cannot miss the wonderful feeling of enjoying the unique cuisine in Osaka. Imagine a culinary world with hundreds of colorful dishes, from traditional dishes with bold flavors such as ramen, sushi or udon to modern and creative dishes.

Okonomiyaki – Japanese Pancake

Okonomiyaki – a fascinating pancake with a crispy shell, containing the wonderful flavors of shrimp, octopus, cabbage and other fresh ingredients. In particular, when enjoying okonomiyaki grilled on a teppan grill, you will feel the wonderful harmony between the sweet, salty and sour flavors of the ingredients. Try adding some okonomiyaki sauce, mayonnaise, green apple or dried bonito to enhance the flavor of this dish.

Kitsune Udon – Tofu Udon

When you come to Osaka, try Kitsune Udon to feel its uniqueness. With a sweet and light soup, and noodles that are hand-made to achieve the perfect softness and chewiness, this dish is truly a wonderful combination of flavors. The highlight of Kitsune Udon is the fatty fried tofu, bringing a unique and delicious flavor.

Teppanyaki – “Extremely Artistic” Grilled Dish Full of Attraction

Coming to Osaka, you will experience a feeling of satisfaction when enjoying cuisine and watching pieces of beef and seafood “dancing” on a large metal plate, skillfully manipulated by professional chefs. It is not only a simple culinary experience but also an artistic performance that you will never forget.

Takoyaki – Japanese Specialty Octopus Cake

Takoyaki – one of the famous specialties of Osaka, Japan and also very familiar in Vietnam. Tako means octopus, yaki means grilled, so Takoyaki means grilled octopus. If you have ever enjoyed okonomiyaki, negiyaki or Imagawayaki, you cannot miss this Takoyaki dish.

The combination of octopus, flour, dashi powder, tenkasu, chicken eggs, cabbage, ginger, pickled onions creates a delicious flavor characteristic of the dish. With a crispy shell on the outside, chewy and soft octopus on the inside, along with delicious mayonnaise, Takoyaki will definitely make you feel excited and want to try it as soon as you set foot in Osaka.

Taiyaki – Japanese Fish Cake

Taiyaki is a traditional Japanese dish, especially popular in the Kanto and Tohoku regions. It is shaped like a fish, with the outside made from wheat flour and the inside stuffed with different fillings such as red beans, cream, salted eggs or chocolate.

Taiyaki is usually grilled directly on a charcoal stove or electric stove, enjoyed while still hot to feel the delicious flavor and the taste of sweet red bean paste. This dish has become a culinary symbol of Japan and is loved all over the world.

What to Eat in Japan? Discover Kyoto Cuisine with Many Highlights

The exquisite cuisine of the ancient capital of Kyoto – a city famous not only for its beautiful landscapes and long-standing historical relics, but also for its typical dishes that have become symbols of Japanese culinary culture. The Kyoto Food Discovery Walking Tour will bring you closer to Japanese cuisine. When participating in this journey, you will enjoy countless dishes both inside small shops and famous restaurants.

Mochi Cake – Japanese Sweets “Loved by Thousands”

Mochi – a favorite Japanese cake with a soft, smooth crust, inside is a naturally sweet red bean paste. This is a must-try cake when enjoying Japanese cuisine. In addition, you can also explore countless other types of Mochi such as fragrant green tea, delicious white beans or rich cream filling, all of which are interesting experiences for your taste buds.

The sweetness of the Japanese Confectionery Making Class in Kyoto will stay in your heart for a long time thanks to the fun and relaxing activities. You will enjoy your own achievements at the end of the class and can completely make cakes at home as gifts for your loved ones.

Yudofu – Traditional Japanese Food

Yudofu is a traditional Japanese dish, especially popular in Kyoto city. This is a simple but very delicate dish and brings a warm feeling to the person enjoying it. Yudofu is made from fresh tofu and water. People will put the tofu in boiling water to cook, then enjoy it by putting the tofu in a bowl, sprinkle some spices such as salt and coriander and eat with tofu paste.

Yudofu has the sweetness of tofu, along with the slight saltiness of water and tofu paste, creating a very unique flavor. This dish is often enjoyed in winter, when the weather is cold, Yudofu will help the eater feel warm and relaxed. You can find Yudofu in most traditional restaurants and eateries in Kyoto, where this dish is considered part of local cuisine and is affordable.

Nishin Soba – Japanese Herring Noodles

Nishin soba – a typical dish of Kyoto, combining sweet pieces of herring and warm soba noodles. This dish has been around for hundreds of years, although Kyoto is quite far from the sea, herring is still transported here safely. With surprisingly large herring pieces, the soft and sweet fish meat is boiled in the broth to create a rich, unique and wonderful flavor.

Warabi Mochi

Warabi mochi is an extremely interesting dish and makes people “addicted” because of its unique chewy texture. With the ingredient of fern flowers, the dish becomes softer and more delicious than ever.

This dish is covered with cheeses such as kinako or brown sugar syrup and some types also have red bean paste inside. In the summer, you can find warabi mochi in many convenience stores and supermarkets. However, to enjoy the best quality warabi mochi, look for artisans in Kyoto.

Don’t Miss These Specialties When Going to Nagoya!

Discover the cuisine in Nagoya – “The Capital of Traditional Flavors”, with a delicate combination of the simplicity and quintessence of Kyoto cuisine with the diversity and uniqueness of Osaka cuisine. Here, you will enjoy great local specialties, bringing unforgettable culinary experiences.

Nagoya Morning Set – Traditional Nagoya Morning Breakfast

If you are looking for a typical breakfast dish of Nagoya, you cannot miss Nagoya Morning – a local breakfast that is highly appreciated by many tourists. Enjoy this dish with a cup of delicious coffee and you will be captivated.

In addition to the traditional ogura red bean toast, you can also choose other variations with ingredients such as eggs, salad, fried shrimp, cabbage… At some stores, you can also enjoy free coffee until the end of the specified time. It’s great to start the day with a filling breakfast like this.

Hitsumabushi – Japanese Grilled Eel

Grilled eel is a Nagoya specialty, made from fresh eel grilled over charcoal. After the eel is cooked, it will be cut into small pieces and placed on a bowl of white rice. You will also be served condiments to add flavor to the dish such as salt, seaweed, wasabi and soy sauce.

The special thing about Nagoya grilled eel is the way to eat it. You will receive a large bowl of rice with condiments and then have to divide this bowl of rice into three small portions. You can eat the first portion without any seasoning, the second portion with different seasonings of your choice, and the third portion can be eaten as a type of sticky rice with a broth made from eel and other seasonings.

Udon Kishimen – Flat Noodles

Udon Kishimen – Nagoya’s signature flat noodles that are hard to resist. The delicious broth is similar to traditional Udon, served with fish cakes, fried tofu, tuna and green onions. This is one of the famous Nagoya specialties that cannot be missed. The flat noodles are extremely chewy, combined with the sweet flavor of the soup and traditional Japanese ingredients.

In addition, Udon Kishimen can also be eaten with curry or enjoyed as cold noodles. Visit shops such as Miyakishimen Shun, Nagoyajo Kishimentei, Ekikaman Kishimen near the train station to enjoy this dish.

Tenmusu Rice Ball – A Popular Breakfast Dish in Japan

If you are a fan of the traditional Onigiri rice ball, then you definitely won’t want to miss Tenmusu when you come to Nagoya. Tenmusu is also a type of rice ball, but it is a bit smaller than Onigiri. Inside is a deep-fried fresh shrimp filling, revealing the shrimp tail on the outside, the rice roll is wrapped in soft seaweed.

When eating Tenmusu, you will enjoy this dish with a special sauce, made from butter and soy sauce. Tenmusu is very popular in Nagoya, so you can easily find it at any restaurant, eatery or food street.

Miso Katsu – “Super Roll” Crispy Fried Pork

Japan is not only famous for dishes such as sushi, sashimi or ramen, but also has delicious fried dishes. And among them, Miso Katsu is a very popular and favorite dish in Nagoya.

Miso Katsu is a crispy fried pork dish with a layer of breadcrumbs that will make you feel excited from the first time you enjoy it. But the special thing about this dish is that the meat is marinated deeply, making the flavor more Japanese than ever. Every time you bite into the soft meat inside, you will feel the attractive sweet flavor.

Enjoy Delicious Food in Hokkaido, Japan

Hokkaido – An island covered by cold seas in the North of Japan, has created a unique culinary world with fresh and rich seafood dishes. From delicious sashimi to rice balls wrapped in fresh vegetables, all have the rich and gentle flavor of typical spices. Discovering Hokkaido cuisine will definitely bring you memorable culinary experiences.

Shirako Mushi

Shirako Mushi is a typical dish of Japanese cuisine, made from the genitals of male fish – “shirako”. Although it sounds a bit strange, shirako is very popular because of its high nutritional content and health benefits.

The best way to prepare shirako is to combine it with shiitake mushrooms, enoki mushrooms, radishes and carrots. The dish is then stewed in a clay pot to retain heat for a long time and create a delicious, nutritious flavor.

Ishikari Nabe – Salmon Hotpot

If you have never enjoyed Ishikari Nabe when coming to Hokkaido – a typical salmon hotpot, then it is a big mistake for a true foodie. This dish is truly a masterpiece created from all parts of the salmon, from the meat, liver, intestines to bones, giving diners a unique and wonderful culinary experience.

Ishikari Nabe used to be simply a salmon hotpot with rich soup, but today it has been upgraded with many rich and diverse flavors depending on the season. The hotpot is added with vegetables, soy mushrooms and especially miso soup to enhance the attractive flavor of the dish. Especially when enjoying the broth, you will feel the unique and delicious flavor of Hokkaido.

Kinki Shioyaki

Hokkaido has always been known for its diverse and rich cuisine, and Kinki Shioyaki is one of the typical dishes that cannot be missed when coming here. With a bright pink skin and delicious white meat, Kinki fish when processed by grilling increases the appeal of the dish.

But the special thing here is that the outer skin of the fish is kept intact, creating a very attractive color. With a characteristic sweetness and delicious aroma, the white and chewy meat of Kinki Shioyaki will make diners unable to take their eyes off this grilled fish dish.

Hokkaido Specialty Abalone – Japan

In the list of typical dishes of Hokkaido, it is impossible not to mention abalone – one of the rarest and most nutritious seafood. Abalone here has its own unique freshness and sweetness, completely different from abalone from other seas. Enjoying fresh abalone is the most popular way to eat in Hokkaido. Fresh abalone meat is ivory white and when you eat it, you will feel the characteristic crispy sweet taste with the refreshing taste of green mustard and soy sauce.

In addition, abalone in Hokkaido is also used to make many other attractive dishes such as soup, porridge and many more. So if you do not like raw food, try choosing other dishes from abalone to experience the unique flavor of this dish.

Taraba Kani & Kegani (King Crab & Hairy Crab)

King crab and hairy crab are two delicious specialties of the Hokkaido sea, sure to captivate many diners. With the sweet fatty taste and rich aromatic flavor of hairy crab, you can enjoy it in many forms such as steamed or sashimi and still retain the wonderful flavor.

If you are enjoying king crab for the first time, you will definitely be surprised by its huge size. The crab meat is plump and the sweet taste will make you unforgettable. King crab is often prepared by grilling, the crab meat is cooked just right but still retains its crunchiness and softness. Try and feel this dish, you will not regret it!

Must try foods in Japan: Enjoy the Top Japanese Cuisine in Okinawa

Let’s explore the culinary identity of Okinawa – an island paradise not only famous for its stunning natural beauty but also for its unique dishes, different from the general cuisine of Japan.

Goya Champuru – Delicious Pan-Fried Bitter Melon

When it comes to Okinawa cuisine, goya champuru will surely melt the hearts of many diners. This Okinawan-style stir-fried bitter melon dish is considered a typical symbol of the rich cuisine of this land. In Japanese, Goya means bitter melon and is native to Southeast Asia. Made from bitter melon, tofu, pork and eggs, goya champuru is not only delicious but also has high nutritional value. This is definitely a dish not to be missed when coming to Okinawa.

Rafute – Japanese Braised Pork

If you have the opportunity to come to Okinawa, don’t forget to try Rafute. The unique flavor of Rafute will make you remember this special dish forever. This dish is made from the ear and face skin of a pig, simmered with soy sauce and brown sugar to create the dish’s unique flavor.

Although originating from China, Rafute in Okinawa is “varied” and prepared differently from other versions across Asia. Rafute here has both salty and sweet flavors, the pork is cooked until tender and melts in your mouth. This dish is often eaten with soba noodles, creating a delicious and nutritious meal.

Taco Rice

Taco rice is a Mexican-Japanese fusion dish that was invented in Okinawa. It is made by mixing rice with condiments such as ketchup, taco seasoning, and strong seasonings such as mirin and sake. The rice is then placed on a taco bread and topped with ingredients such as stir-fried beef, lettuce, tomatoes, onions, and mayonnaise.

Although the name of this dish contains the word “taco,” taco rice is not the same as a traditional Western taco. Taco rice is a popular fast food in Okinawa, sold at most street food stalls and convenience stores.

Umibudo – Sea Grapes

Located in the Southeast Asian sea and around Okinawa Island, Umibudo seaweed has the shape of miniature green grapes. This is one of the traditional ingredients and is very close to the local people. With its emerald green color and high nutrients, they are known as “sea grapes” or “green caviar”.

Okinawa people have many ways to prepare and enjoy Umibudo. When chilled and mixed well in soy sauce and vinegar, the salty, sour and rich flavor will make you unable to resist their appeal. In addition, Umibudo is also combined with other main dishes such as stir-fry or Okinawa Soba noodles to enhance the flavor and nutrition of the dish.

Blue Seal Ice Cream – Famous Japanese Snack

Blue Seal Ice Cream is a special ice cream brand only available in Okinawa and is one of the indispensable dishes when coming to this paradise island. The 68-year-old brand has become a symbol of Okinawa and captivated the hearts of many tourists.

With unique and rich flavors such as sweet potato, Okinawa salt biscuits, strawberry cheesecake, … Blue Seal ice cream brings an authentic and sophisticated culinary experience. Not just simply an ice cream, each Blue Seal ice cream bar is also a work of art, creating a wonderful blend of delicate flavors and love for the homeland.

Don’t miss the opportunity to discover the exquisite flavors of Japanese cuisine. Each dish carries a unique secret and the harmonious combination of ingredients creates a wonderful experience. If you are planning to travel to the Land of Cherry Blossoms, don’t rush to miss the appeal of the dishes that Klook suggests above.

Before going to Japan, you should book hotels, tourist attractions, sightseeing cars with private drivers or JR Pass All Japan to save more money and the most necessary thing is still a 4G Sim or Wifi transmitter if traveling in a group to keep a stable Internet connection anytime, anywhere.

Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in, to and from Tokyo you can refer to

• Private Narita International Airport Transfers (NRT) for Tokyo 23 Wards, Hakone, or Karuizawa
• Private Haneda International Airport Transfers (HND) for Tokyo 23 Wards, Hakone, or Karuizawa
• Airport Limousine Bus Transfers from/to Narita and Haneda International Airport (Free Wifi Onboard)
• Tokyo Amazing Sightseeing Bus Day Tour
• Tokyo Highlights Private Day Tour
• Nikko Day Tour from Tokyo
• Mt Fuji & Hakone Day Tour: Lake Ashi & Ropeway Day Trip from Tokyo
• Nikko Cultural Day Tour from Tokyo
• Tokyo Subway Ticket (24, 48, or 72 Hours)
• Tokyo Skyliner and Tokyo Subway Ticket
• Shuttle Bus Transfers (One Way/Round Trip) from Shinjuku/Ikebukuro to Tokyo Disneyland or Tokyo DisneySea
• Tokyo Disney Resort Park Ticket
• Klook Pass Greater Tokyo
• SHIBUYA SKY Ticket
• Warner Bros. Studio Tour Tokyo – The Making of Harry Potter Ticket
• Skyliner Narita Airport Express Ticket
• TeamLab Planets Ticket
• TOKYO SKYTREE® Ticket
• Limousine Bus Narita or Haneda Airport to Tokyo
• Skyliner Narita Airport Express With Tokyo Subway Ticket
• JR Tokyo Wide Pass
• Sky Hop-on and Hop-off Bus Pass
• 4G Prepaid Sim Card (JP Airports Pick Up) for Japan
• 4G WiFi (BKK and DMK Airport Pick Up) for Japan (Unlimited Data)
• JR Pass for Whole Japan (7, 14, or 21 Days)

Are you looking for more Tokyo travel guide and top things to do in Tokyo: Tours, activities, attractions and other things? Read more: Tokyo itinerary 3 days — What to do in Tokyo in 3 days?