No one talks about the wide variety of Japanese food until they get to Japan and realize that there is so much more available than just ramen, sushi, and tempura. Well, it’s time to get ahead of the learning curve and go to Japan knowing exactly what delicious food you need to try.

Some people might feel a little intimidated by Japanese food because they are unfamiliar with it. If you’re in that group, then you’re in the right place! A little expert knowledge goes a long way in making a trip more effortless and meaningful. Our Japan expert, Carly, broke down 5 foods you should try on your trip to Japan so you can expand your culinary horizons.

Tamago Kake Gohan

What is it? A raw egg cracked over freshly steamed rice.

Why try it? Unlike in the United States, Japanese eggs are safe for consuming raw. In most countries, it is normal to be concerned about eating raw eggs, but thanks to the strict health procedures and regulations in Japan for egg production, the chance of contracting salmonella from eating an egg is extremely low. Japanese eggs are much richer in flavor and creamier in texture.

How do you eat it? TKG, for short, is often consumed for breakfast in Japan with a dash of soy sauce and green onions on top.

Shabu Shabu

What is it? Shabu-shabu is a Japanese hotpot dish of thinly sliced meat and vegetables boiled in soup stock and served with dipping sauces. The term is onomatopoeic, derived from the "swish swish" sound emitted when the ingredients are stirred in the cooking pot.

Why try it? It’s a fun, social way to share a meal. In fact, many Japanese meals are shared in a communal cooking experience with your fellow diners - monjayaki, nabe, yakiniku, the list goes on!

How do you eat it? Pick your broth, cook the vegetables, then the meat. Continue adding new meat and vegetables as the cooked ones are consumed. Be careful not to cross-contaminate utensils for raw meat with other ingredients. Dip your cooked meat and vegetables in your dipping sauces and enjoy with rice!

Pro Tip: Cook udon noodles in the remaining broth at the end!

Yoshoku

What is it? Western food, re-invented with a Japanese twist. You may have heard of dishes like omurice, krokke, neapolitan, hayashi rice, Japanese curry, etc. You’ll find many classic Japanese comfort foods at Yoshoku establishments.

Why try it? Yoshoku is a fascinating lens through which to view a very literal and tangible Japanese cultural interpretation of Western cuisine. The history of Yoshoku dishes intertwines with culture as much as it does with history. Each Yoshoku dish has a unique story of how it came to be.

How do you eat it? My favorite Yoshoku dish is hambagu (which is different than a hamburger in Japan). It’s a pork and beef patty covered in a demiglace sauce and served with rice. Without fail, it will be the juiciest hamburger patty you’ve ever had.

Menchi katsu

What is it? Though part of the Yoshoku food category, menchi katsu deserves its own call out. Menchi katsu is a Japanese breaded and deep-fried ground meat patty - a fried meat cake. The meat is usually ground beef, pork, or a mixture of the two.

Why try it? It’s easy to find and makes the perfect street food snack. Also, let’s be honest, there’s no way I’m going to deep fry something up at home as good as they do out here.

How do you eat it? My favorite way to enjoy it is by seeking out a local butcher since they always have the freshest menchi katsu for sale. Just out of the frier it’s hot, crispy on the outside, and juicy on the inside. The perfect combination. If you’re vegetarian, most shops that sell menchi katsu also sell potato krokke (or croquettes), a wonderful meatless alternative!

Shojin Ryori

What is it? "Shojin ryori" refers to traditional Buddhist cooking that focuses on seasonal vegetables and mountain plants. Shojin ryori is completely vegetarian and frequently uses no animal products at all, making it suitable for vegans too.

Why try it? This style of food has been eaten for centuries by Buddhist priests. People all around the world have taken an interest in this cuisine both for its health benefits and taste. Shojin ryori is known for taking natural ingredients and preparing them in ways that showcase them at their absolute best. A harmony of man and nature.

How do you eat it? To enjoy shojin ryori is to enjoy nature and appreciate the season. The ingredients, dishes, and preparation style all complement the season. A single meal is made up of many small dishes that are colorful, with all five tastes represented: sweet, sour, salty, bitter, and umami. When people think of shojin ryori, they imagine sitting in a Buddhist temple but it’s quite accessible throughout major cities in Japan.

Which food are you going to try first? We hope we’ve awoken your appetite and inspired you to explore more of Japan’s delicious dishes. Join us on our Inside Japan Cultural Tour and experience the vibrant culture and delicious flavors this beautiful country has to offer. Contact us here if you have any questions or concerns and we’d be happy to set up a time to talk.

If you’re traveling to Japan but don’t know where to start or want to tap into our travel expertise to make the most of your trip, check out our customized travel coaching and optional booking service.

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