Beginner’s Guide: 15 Essential Japanese Foods You Have to Try

Start Here! Iconic Japanese Dishes You Must Try

Sushi

When it comes to Japanese cuisine, sushi is the undisputed icon. From hand-pressed nigiri with fresh seafood to rolled maki and colorful chirashi bowls, sushi comes in many forms. You can enjoy a luxurious experience at high-end sushi counters or opt for a more casual visit to a conveyor belt sushi restaurant. Popular toppings include tuna, salmon, and shrimp. Don’t forget to explore the proper way to use soy sauce and wasabi—it’s all part of the cultural experience!

Ramen

Ramen is a beloved national dish with regional varieties found throughout Japan. The flavor of the soup differs greatly depending on the type—pork bone (tonkotsu), soy sauce (shoyu), miso, or salt (shio). Noodles also vary in thickness and texture, reflecting each shop’s unique style. Customize your bowl with toppings like chashu pork, marinated egg, and seaweed. Many ramen shops are open late into the night, making it a perfect comfort food after a long day of travel.

Tempura

Tempura is Japan’s unique take on deep-fried cuisine, known for its light, crispy batter and delicate flavors. Shrimp, squid, and seasonal vegetables like sweet potato, shishito pepper, and pumpkin are commonly used. It’s typically enjoyed with just a pinch of salt or a light dipping sauce (tentsuyu). At specialty tempura restaurants, you can watch skilled chefs fry each item right in front of you and serve it fresh one by one for the best taste and texture.

Warm and Comforting: Japanese Soups and Hot Pot Dishes

Miso Soup

Miso soup is a traditional staple in Japanese meals. Made by dissolving fermented soybean paste (miso) into a savory broth called dashi—typically derived from kombu (kelp) and bonito flakes—it often includes ingredients like tofu, wakame seaweed, green onions, and potatoes. Despite its simplicity, the flavor is deep and nourishing, warming you from the inside out. You’ll often encounter it at breakfast in ryokan inns or as a side dish in set meals. The type of miso used, such as white or red, varies by region and household.

Udon

Udon is a thick, chewy noodle dish loved across Japan. The flavor of the soup base varies by region—lighter dashi broth in the Kansai area and richer soy sauce broth in Kanto. Udon can be served in many ways, including tempura udon, kitsune udon (topped with sweet fried tofu), and curry udon. In summer, cold versions like zaru udon (served with dipping sauce) are especially refreshing. It’s a versatile dish you can enjoy year-round.

Shabu-Shabu

Shabu-shabu is a Japanese hot pot dish where thin slices of beef or pork are briefly swished in boiling kombu broth and then dipped in flavorful sauces like sesame or citrus-based ponzu. The name “shabu-shabu” mimics the sound of the swishing motion. It’s typically enjoyed with vegetables, tofu, and mushrooms, making for a well-balanced and satisfying meal. From upscale specialty restaurants to all-you-can-eat buffets, shabu-shabu is a popular and interactive dining experience for visitors.

Perfect with Rice! Japanese Meat and Fried Favorites

Yakitori

Yakitori is a beloved Japanese dish consisting of bite-sized pieces of chicken and vegetables skewered and grilled over charcoal. Each part of the chicken—such as thigh, breast, skin, liver, and meatballs (tsukune)—offers a different flavor and texture. The skewers are typically seasoned with either salt or a sweet soy-based sauce. Yakitori is a popular menu item at izakaya (Japanese pubs), food stalls, and specialty shops, making it an easy and flavorful option for first-time visitors.

Tonkatsu

Tonkatsu is a hearty dish made by coating pork cutlets (usually loin or fillet) with panko breadcrumbs and deep-frying them to crispy perfection. The contrast between the crunchy exterior and juicy meat is irresistible. It’s typically served with shredded cabbage and a rich tonkatsu sauce, along with rice and miso soup. Variations include katsudon (tonkatsu simmered with egg over rice) and cheese-filled tonkatsu. This satisfying dish is a favorite among both locals and travelers.

Japanese Curry

Japanese curry is a unique comfort food that has evolved separately from its Indian and Thai counterparts. Made with a thick, mildly spicy roux, it usually includes chunks of potato, carrot, onion, and meat (typically pork or beef). It’s served over rice and often accompanied by pickles. One popular variation is katsu curry, which features a breaded pork cutlet on top. Japanese curry is widely loved for its rich, slightly sweet flavor and is easy to find at restaurants, diners, and even convenience stores.

Easy and Fun! Japanese Street Food You Can’t Miss

Takoyaki

Takoyaki are round, savory balls of batter filled with pieces of octopus, green onions, and pickled ginger. Originating from Osaka, these popular street snacks are cooked in a special molded pan and have a crispy outside and soft, gooey inside. They’re typically topped with a sweet-savory sauce, mayonnaise, bonito flakes, and seaweed powder. You’ll find takoyaki stalls at festivals, tourist areas, and shopping streets—perfect for eating while exploring!

Okonomiyaki

Okonomiyaki is often described as a “Japanese savory pancake,” made with flour, eggs, shredded cabbage, and your choice of toppings like pork, seafood, or cheese. There are two main styles: Osaka-style (where everything is mixed together before grilling) and Hiroshima-style (which layers the ingredients and often includes noodles). Topped with a special sauce, mayonnaise, bonito flakes, and seaweed, okonomiyaki is a fun and satisfying meal you can often cook yourself at the table.

Taiyaki

Taiyaki is a fish-shaped pastry filled with sweet fillings, most commonly red bean paste (anko). The exterior is crisp and golden, while the inside is warm and soft. Modern variations include custard cream, chocolate, sweet potato, and even savory fillings like cheese or curry. Taiyaki is often sold at street stalls and bakeries, and its charming shape makes it a favorite treat for both kids and adults.

Delightfully Beautiful! Traditional Japanese Sweets

Wagashi (e.g. Dango, Yokan)

Wagashi are traditional Japanese sweets crafted to reflect the seasons and aesthetics of nature. Made from ingredients like rice flour, red bean paste, and agar, these confections are known for their elegant appearance and subtle sweetness. Popular examples include colorful dango (rice dumplings on skewers) and yokan (a firm jelly made from red beans). Often served with green tea, wagashi offer a refined dessert experience deeply connected to Japanese culture.

Matcha Sweets

Matcha, or powdered green tea, is not only used in tea ceremonies but also in a variety of modern desserts. Matcha ice cream, matcha roll cake, and matcha tiramisu are just a few of the treats you’ll find throughout Japan. The slightly bitter, earthy flavor of matcha pairs beautifully with sweet elements, creating a sophisticated taste. For the most authentic experience, visit Kyoto or Uji, known for their high-quality matcha products.

Mochi (Daifuku, Sakura Mochi, etc.)

Mochi is a chewy rice cake made from glutinous rice and is a staple in Japanese celebrations and seasonal events. It takes many forms, including daifuku (mochi filled with red bean paste) and sakura mochi (wrapped in a cherry blossom leaf). Its soft texture and variety of flavors make it a fun and delicious treat. You can find mochi at traditional sweet shops, supermarkets, and even convenience stores—perfect as a snack or souvenir!

Conclusion: Discover the Charm of Japanese Cuisine through the Classics

Japan’s culinary world is incredibly diverse, but these 15 classic dishes are the perfect starting point for first-time visitors. From sushi and ramen to tempura and mochi, each dish offers a unique glimpse into Japan’s rich food culture. Whether you’re dining at a fancy restaurant, exploring a local izakaya, or trying street food at a festival, every bite is a new experience. Dive into the flavors of Japan and create delicious memories that will stay with you long after your trip!