The Ultimate Guide to 10 Must-Try Japanese Foods for First-Time Travelers

• By Gallen Ray Canillo Canillo
• December 13, 2024December 13, 2024
• With 0 comments

Japan is undeniably one of the top tourist destinations among foreign visitors and our delicate cuisine is among the many reasons why travelers love to go back to our country. If you are planning to visit for the first time, you’re definitely in for a delicious treat!

When you think of Japanese food, you might think of sushi or sashimi, but Japanese cuisine is more than these two staple foods. Below are the 10 must-try Japanese foods for first-time travelers.

10 Best Japanese Foods for First-Time Travelers

Japanese food is known for its complex blend of tradition, quality, and flavor that will leave you craving for more once you tasted it. These are the must-try Japanese foods if you are a foreigner visiting Japan for the first time.

1. Udon

You might expect sushi or sashimi to top the list, but this Japanese noodle dish made with wheat flour deserves the top spot. Japanese udon noodles are a stable comfort food among Japanese, known for its thick and chewy texture.

Usually, the dish is served hot topped with raw eggs, green onions, and another must-try Japanese food called Tempura. Sometimes, Udon is also served together with a tasty dipping sauce.

2. Ramen

Another noodle soup that you should not miss out on when visiting Japan is Ramen. This is a famous broth-based dish with endless variations, but the usual flavors are miso, tonkotsu broth, and soy sauce. 

Similar to other Japanese noodle dishes, it can be topped with different proteins of your choice. But locals recommend adding a soft-boiled egg and tender pork slices for a complete hearty meal. 

3. Sushi

Whenever we think of Japanese foods, Sushi is the first thing that comes to our mind. It is the dish that we mostly associate with Japan because of its classic and unique flavor that only the best Itamae or sushi chefs.

Sushi is a raw fish dish that is precisely cut, from quality of fish to cutting methods. It’s usually topped on vinegared rice. Sometimes, people dip it in soy sauce or wasabi paste to add extra flavor and kick

4. Okonomiyaki

Another authentic Japanese dish that you must try is its very own savory pancake called Okonomiyaki. The ingredients include cabbage and whatever protein you like, from the Japanese word itself “okonomi” that means whatever you like.

It is cooked the way you cook a normal pancake and it is topped with mayonnaise, sauce, and seaweed flakes. But if you are looking for the best ones, I suggest going to Osaka and Hiroshima. They are known for the most tasty Okonomiyaki in the country.

5. Karaage

Karaage or Japanese fried chicken is one of the best fried chickens in the world because of its distinct style of preparation and flavoring. It’s described as flavorful, juicy, perfectly krisp, and in the right size.

The chicken cuttings are marinated in soy sauce, ginger, and garlic. Usually, you see this dish sold on the streets as a snack or a meal. What makes it different from other fried chickens is its distinctly clean taste.

6. Yakitori

If you are someone conservative, Yakitori or Japanese grilled chicken skewers are a good option. Although simply prepared, it is packed with Japanese flavour. The chicken cuts are seasoned with salt and a sweet soy glaze. 

But if you are someone who loves to explore exotic flavors, you can choose a different part of the chicken such as the heart or liver paired with a cold beer for an adventurous option and unique experience.

7. Yakiniku

Yakiniku refers to a Japanese style of cooking bite-sized meat and vegetables, often referred to as the Japanese BBQ. This style of cooking allows you to grill your own meat at your table. The meat can be chicken, beef, or pork.

And Japanese people love the experience more than the food itself. Wherever you go in Japan, you can always find an authentic Yakiniku restaurant. 

8. Tempura

Another fried dish that should be on your bucket list is Tempura. This dish consists of vegetables and seafood (particularly shrimp) coated in thin batter and fried to perfection. It is also paired with a bowl of rice and dipped in soy sauce.

9. Takoyaki

If there is one street food that I highly recommend, it would be Takoyaki for sure! It’s an octopus dish served in bite-sized balls coated in a batter. It is also filled with green onions and other vegetables fried to the right krisp.

What adds flavor to this dish is not only the stuffed ingredients but the flavorful sauce, which is a combination of mayonnaise, tangy sauce, and bonito flakes. You can find these being sold at any booths or bazaar shops, especially in touristy districts.

10. Matcha Desserts

Of course, this list is incomplete without a dessert. As you may have known, Japan is famous for high grade, and premium matcha. And true enough, this flavor is taking over its pastry scenes.

Matcha isn’t just used for tea-based drinks, but is also infused in some baked goodies like cakes, bread, and even ice cream. When in Japan, never miss your chance to have a taste of authentic matcha that you can never find anywhere else in the world.

Conclusion: 10 Must-Try Japanese Foods Every First-Time Visitor Should Savor

There is no doubt that Japanese cuisine is one of the best cuisines in the world. The reason for it is not only because of its authentic flavors but also because of its quality, cleanliness, and enticing presentation.

If you are travelling to Japan for the first time, never ever leave the country without trying any of these dishes: Sushi, Ramen, Soba, and Okonomiyaki. Check out the list above for a full complete list of must-try Japanese foods.