Japan is a country located in East Asia, known for its unique culture and traditions. From the bustling streets of Tokyo to the serene temples of Kyoto, Japan offers travellers a diverse range of experiences.
The country is also popular for its technological advancements, including cutting-edge robotics and high-speed trains. Japan is home to delicious cuisine, including sushi, ramen, and tempura, which you can enjoy at traditional restaurants or street vendors. Japan is a country popular for its unique and delicious cuisine. From the famous sushi to ramen and tempura, Japanese food has become popular worldwide.
Here we have compiled a list of the 24 most popular food in Japan that you must try. This list covers everything from savoury dishes like tonkatsu and yakitori to sweet treats like mochi and tamagoyaki. So, get ready for a mouth-watering journey through the various flavours of Japan.
Best 24 Popular Food In Japan
Introducing the best 24 popular food in Japan, each with a unique flavour and texture that will tantalize your taste buds. From sushi, a traditional dish of vinegared rice and raw fish, to ramen, a hearty noodle soup, there’s something for everyone.
Indulge in crispy tempura made with seafood, meat or vegetables and savoury pancakes loaded with cabbage, seafood, and noodles. Savour grilled chicken skewers with delicious sauces, or try small balls of batter filled with diced octopus and spices cooked to perfection in special pans.
1.Sushi
Regarding popular food in Japan, sushi is a must-try dish for anyone visiting the country. Made with vinegared rice and fresh seafood, sushi has been enjoyed for centuries and has become a staple cuisine worldwide.
From classic nigiri to creative maki rolls, sushi offers various options that cater to all tastes. Sushi is delicious and visually appealing with its unique blend of flavours and textures. Whether you’re a seasoned sushi lover or trying it for the first time, this Japanese delicacy will leave your taste buds wanting more.
2.Ramen
Ramen’s popularity continues to grow in Japan and worldwide, and it’s easy to see why. This delicious noodle soup dish offers a savoury broth with perfectly cooked wheat noodles and various flavour-packed toppings.
Whether you prefer your ramen with sliced pork, seaweed, or boiled eggs, every bite will surely be a treat for your taste buds. With its endless regional variations and unique flavours, ramen has become a staple of Japanese cuisine that any food lover should not miss.
3.Tempura
Regarding Japanese cuisine, tempura is a beloved and iconic dish that should not be missed. This deep-fried delicacy comes by coating seafood or vegetables in a light batter before being fried until crispy and golden brown. The result is a satisfyingly crunchy exterior with a flavorful bite inside.
The dipping sauce made with dashi, soy sauce, and mirin complements the dish perfectly, making it a popular addition to many Japanese meals. Don’t forget to try the shrimp tempura, one of the most popular variations of this dish.
4.Sashimi
Sashimi is a delicacy that epitomizes Japanese cuisine. Made from raw fish or seafood, it is a dish that requires the freshest ingredients to enjoy truly. Sashimi typically serves with soy sauce, wasabi, and pickled ginger, which add to its unique flavour profile.
It’s important to note that sashimi should only consume in reputable restaurants, where the chefs deeply understand how to prepare it safely and correctly. Whether a seasoned sushi lover or an adventurous foodie, sashimi is a dish worth trying at least once on your culinary journey through Japan.
5.Yakitori
Yakitori, the grilled chicken skewers, is a popular dish in Japan that has been enjoyed for centuries. The dish typically prepares by marinating chicken pieces in soy sauce, sake, and mirin before grilling over charcoal.
Yakitori can come with different cuts of chicken, like thigh meat and liver, and often serves with dipping sauces like tare or salt. Whether you’re looking for a deliciously simple street food snack or a hearty meal, Yakitori is the ideal Japanese dish to satisfy your taste buds.
6.Takoyaki
Takoyaki is a beloved Japanese street food that has gained popularity worldwide. These savoury balls of batter are filled with small pieces of octopus, tempura scraps, green onion, and pickled ginger before being cooked until crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside.
Takoyaki’s unique texture, umami flavour, and fun presentation make it a must-try dish for anyone visiting Japan. Whether enjoyed as a quick snack or part of a larger meal, takoyaki is an unforgettable culinary experience that captures the essence of Japanese cuisine.
7.Tonkatsu
Tonkatsu, a deep-fried breaded pork cutlet, is a popular Japanese dish that locals and tourists enjoy. This dish originated in the late 19th century and has become a staple in Japanese cuisine. Tonkatsu typically serves with shredded cabbage and tonkatsu sauce from Worcestershire sauce and ketchup.
It’s versatile too. Besides pork, Tonkatsu can also come with chicken or beef. Whether served as a main course at restaurants or as part of a bento box meal, Tonkatsu will satisfy your cravings for crispy fried food.
8.Onigiri
Onigiri, a Japanese rice ball, is a popular snack and convenience food in Japan. It’s easy to find in many convenience stores and train stations, making it the perfect grab-and-go option for busy people. Onigiri is typically filled with various ingredients such as fish, pickled vegetables, or meat.
The rice ball is then wrapped in seaweed, which adds a savoury umami flavour to the rice. With its versatility and portability, onigiri is a must-try for anyone visiting Japan who wants to experience its unique cuisine.
9.Gyoza
Gyoza, a popular Japanese dish, is a dumpling famous for its delicious taste and unique preparation. These bite-sized delights are typically filled with ground meat and vegetables and then fried or steamed. Gyoza’s popularity can attribute to its versatility; it can serve as an appetizer or snack and makes for an excellent main course. While gyoza originated in China, Japan has made it it’s own by adding unique flavourings to the filling and dipping sauce.
10.Karaage
The delicious and addictive Japanese dish, Karaage, has gained immense popularity among food lovers worldwide. These bite-sized marinated and deep-fried chicken perfectly combines a crispy exterior and juicy interior.
Although traditionally made with chicken, vegetarian options are available to cater to the dietary needs of all. The versatility of Karaage as a snack or main course makes it a must-try for anyone visiting Japan or craving authentic Japanese cuisine.
11.Mochi
Mochi is a beloved traditional Japanese rice cake that has gained popularity worldwide. Made from glutinous rice, mochi can fill with sweet or savoury fillings. This treat often enjoys during special occasions like the Japanese New Year.
Unlike regular rice cakes, mochi has a unique chewy texture that stands out. Mochi can grill, boiled, or fried to create different flavours and textures. Whether you have a sweet tooth or prefer savoury snacks, mochi is a delicious and versatile food worth trying.
12.Okonomiyaki
Introducing itself as a savoury Japanese pancake, Okonomiyaki offers a wide range of ingredients such as cabbage, pork belly, shrimp, and eggs. The name “grilled as you like it” gives the customer the power to customize their meal according to their preferences.
Known in two main styles – Hiroshima-style and Osaka-style, Okonomiyaki cooks on a flat grill or hot plate in front of the customer. Topped with mayonnaise, okonomiyaki sauce and bonito flakes, it is popular street food in Japan.
13.Kaisendon
Introducing kaisendon, a popular Japanese dish loved for its fresh sashimi served over a bed of rice. The dish is usually topped with seaweed, pickled vegetables and tamagoyaki (sweet omelette).
Kaisendon offers a unique taste experience that seafood lovers should not miss when visiting Japan. Whether enjoyed as a light lunch or dinner, the freshness and savoury taste of kaisendon will leave you wanting more.
14.Anago Meshi
Anago Meshi is a delicacy that seafood lovers must try when visiting Japan. Made with grilled or braised sea eel and rice, the dish often serves in speciality restaurants specialising in seafood. The eel is marinated in a sweet and savoury sauce before cooking, resulting in a unique flavour and texture that is highly prized. Enjoy Anago Meshi as a main course or a side dish with other Japanese delicacies for an unforgettable culinary experience.
15.Zuke
Zuke is a traditional Japanese dish quite popular as a side dish or topping for rice. Made by marinating fish in soy sauce and mirin, the marinade gives the fish a sweet and savoury flavour that is hard to resist. Zuke can come with various types of fish, such as tuna, mackerel, or salmon and often enjoys as a snack or appetizer in Japan. This simple yet flavorful dish is perfect for those who love seafood and want to try something new.
16.Unagi
Unagi is certainly one of the most sought-after delicacies in Japan. This Japanese freshwater eel has a rich and flavorful taste, making it a popular choice for special occasions and celebrations. Unagi is usually prepared by grilling it to perfection and then served with a sweet soy sauce glaze called tare.
Besides being delicious, unagi is also believed to have several health benefits, including improving stamina and promoting overall wellness. That’s why you’ll find many traditional restaurants throughout Japan serving up unagi dishes like unadon, which grills unagi served on top of a bed of rice.
17.Udon
Udon, a thick Japanese noodle, is a popular dish loved by many due to its versatility and comforting texture. It can enjoy hot or cold with various toppings and sauces, making it a go-to dish for any occasion. Kitsune Udon with sweetened tofu and Tempura Udon with fried seafood are among Japan’s most beloved udon dishes. Whether you’re looking for a quick meal or a hearty bowl of noodles, udon will satisfy your cravings with its delicious taste and endless possibilities.
18.Soba
Soba, a Japanese noodle made from buckwheat flour, is a beloved staple in Japanese cuisine. Its unique nutty flavour and chewy texture make it a popular choice for hot and cold dishes. Soba noodles are also rich in nutrients such as fibre, protein, and antioxidants, making them an excellent addition to a healthy diet.
Expert artisans often make the best soba noodles using traditional techniques passed down for generations, ensuring the highest quality and taste. Whether served in soup or with various sauces and toppings, Soba will satisfy any food lover’s cravings.
19.Donburi
Donburi is a quintessential, filling Japanese dish perfect for lunch or dinner. A rice bowl topes with various ingredients such as meat, vegetables and eggs to create a hearty meal. Donburi dishes vary from gyudon (beef), katsu don (pork cutlet), and oyakodon (chicken and egg) to the tendon (tempura).
It a popular dish serves in casual restaurants and fast-food chains in Japan. Many restaurants offer customizable options to create your own perfect bowl of donburi. With its delicious taste and affordability, it’s no surprise that donburi is a favourite among locals and tourists alike.
20.Tamagoyaki
Tamagoyaki is a beloved Japanese dish that is as delicious as simple. Made by rolling together thin layers of seasoned egg, tamagoyaki often serves as a breakfast item or as part of a bento box lunch. This versatile dish can flavour with mirin, soy sauce, and dashi to suit your taste buds.
Tamagoyaki is also highly nutritious and rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals, making it an excellent addition to any meal. Whether eaten alone or with other dishes like rice or noodles, tamagoyaki will surely delight your taste buds with its unique texture and flavour.
21.Miso Soup
Introducing a savoury and nutritious soup, the traditional Japanese dish, Miso Soup, is famous worldwide for its unique flavour. Made from fermented soybean paste, miso, this soup can customize with various ingredients such as tofu, seaweed, and green onions.
Apart from being low in calories and protein content, it is perfect for people looking to add probiotics to their diet. Miso Soup is delicious and offers several health benefits, making it an excellent addition to one’s daily diet.
22.Sukiyaki
Sukiyaki is a beloved Japanese hot pot dish perfect for sharing with friends and family. The thinly sliced beef, tofu, and vegetables simmer in a sweet and savoury broth that will tantalize your taste buds. Traditionally, sukiyaki cooks at the table in a cast-iron pot called a “nabe.”
It’s not just the delicious flavour that makes sukiyaki so popular, but also the social experience of cooking and eating together. In fact, sukiyaki often enjoys special occasions such as birthdays and New Year’s Eve in Japan.
23.Edamame
Edamame is a popular appetizer in Japan that has gained popularity worldwide due to its health benefits and delicious taste. Made from immature soybeans, edamame typically serves boiled or steamed with salt for seasoning. This delicious snack contains protein, fibre, vitamins, and minerals.
Edamame can find in many Japanese restaurants worldwide, making adding a healthy option to your meal easy. Additionally, it can incorporate into various recipes, such as salads or stir-fries, making it a versatile ingredient in any kitchen.
24.Yasai Tempura
Introducing Yasai Tempura, a popular dish in Japan that will tantalize your taste buds with its crispy texture and flavorful vegetables. Originating from the 16th century, Yasai Tempura has become a staple in Japanese cuisine.
The dish features battered and fried vegetables such as sweet potato, eggplant, and green beans. These vegetables carefully select for their unique flavors and textures that blend perfectly with the batter’s soy sauce or dashi seasoning. Yasai Tempura often serves as an appetizer or side dish at traditional Japanese restaurants, leaving you craving for more of its delectable taste.
Conclusion
Japan is a country that is renowned for its unique and delicious cuisine. From sushi to ramen, many popular food in Japan are loved by people worldwide. Whether you’re a foodie or just looking to try something new, Japanese cuisine is definitely worth exploring.
With its rich flavours, fresh ingredients, and attention to detail, it’s no wonder that Japanese food has become so popular globally. Japan is a food lover’s paradise, with its unique and diverse cuisine. There is something for everyone, from sushi to ramen, tempura to sashimi.
This list includes the top 24 popular Japanese foods that are a must-try on your food journey through Japan. Whether you’re a seafood lover or prefer vegetarian options, there’s no shortage of delicious Japanese food to explore.
Frequently Asked Questions
1.What Is Your Favourite Japanese Dish?
Ans: Some popular Japanese dishes include sushi, ramen, tempura, udon, and yakitori. Japanese cuisine is popular for its attention to detail in presentation and use of fresh ingredients. Exploring different types of Japanese cuisine can be a delightful culinary adventure, as there are so many unique and delicious dishes to try.
2.Where Would Japanese Cuisine Be Without Miso?
Ans: It’s hard to imagine Japanese cuisine without miso. This key ingredient is handy in many dishes, including miso soup and ramen, and has been an essential part of the cuisine for over 1,000 years.
Miso comes from fermenting soybeans with salt and koji, a type of mould. Without miso, Japanese dishes would not have their distinct umami flavour that is so integral to the cuisine’s delicious taste.
3.What Are The Benefits Of Drinking Japanese Green Tea For Weight Loss?
Ans: Drinking Japanese green tea can benefit weight loss due to its catechin content, which has been shown to boost metabolism and aid in weight loss. Green tea also contains caffeine, which can help increase energy levels and suppress appetite. In addition to these weight loss benefits, drinking green tea regularly may improve overall health and reduce the risk of certain diseases.
4.Does Japanese Green Tea Really Work?
Ans: Japanese green tea has been consumed for centuries and is believed to offer numerous health benefits. It contains antioxidants and may help boost metabolism, leading to potential weight loss benefits. Studies have also shown that green tea may improve brain function and reduce the risk of certain diseases.
5.Is There A Difference Between Regular And Unfiltered Japanese Green Tea?
Ans: Yes, there is a difference between regular and unfiltered Japanese green tea. Regular green tea is typically strained to remove the leaves, while unfiltered green tea leaves are left in the cup. Unfiltered green tea has a stronger taste and contains more nutrients than regular green tea, including antioxidants and vitamins.