As you journey through Japan, one of the most exciting parts is undoubtedly the food. From fresh sushi and sashimi to hot, comforting bowls of ramen, there’s something for every taste bud. But did you know that each region of Japan has its own unique cuisine with flavors and ingredients that are specific to that area? Let’s take a closer look at some of the regional dishes that you can try in Japan.
Kanto Cuisine:
As the capital of Japan, it’s no surprise that Tokyo has its own unique cuisine. One dish that you need to try while in Tokyo is monja-yaki, a type of savory pancake that is similar to okonomiyaki, but with a softer texture. Ramen lovers will be delighted to hear that Kanto is also known for its delicious ramen, which typically has a soy sauce-based broth and thin noodles. Don’t forget to try katsu-don, a rice bowl topped with deep-fried pork cutlets and egg, a favorite among locals.
Hokkaido Cuisine:
Up north in Hokkaido, the cuisine is heavily influenced by the cold climate and the region’s natural resources. Here, you’ll find hearty regional dishes like jingisukan, a Mongolian-style barbecue that features mutton and vegetables. The abundance of seafood in Hokkaido also means that you can enjoy fresh uni, crab, and salmon roe. For a sweet treat, try shiroi koibito, a delicate butter cookie sandwich filled with white chocolate.
Kansai Cuisine:
If you find yourself in Kyoto or Osaka, be sure to try some of the famous regional dishes from the Kansai region. Here, you’ll find delicacies such as okonomiyaki, which is a savory pancake made with cabbage and topped with a variety of ingredients. You can also try takoyaki, small batter balls typically filled with diced octopus, and yakitori, skewered chicken grilled to perfection. Not to mention, Kansai is known for its delicious seafood like fugu, or pufferfish, which is carefully prepared by trained chefs.
Okinawan Cuisine:
The southernmost island of Japan, Okinawa, has its own unique cuisine that is influenced by its subtropical climate and proximity to China and Southeast Asia. The most well-known dish is probably goya champuru, a stir-fry made with bitter melon, tofu, and pork. Another must-try is jimami tofu, a silky tofu made with peanuts. Okinawa is also known for its abundance of fresh fruits like passion fruit, mangoes, and pineapples.
Japan’s regional cuisine offers a range of flavors and ingredients that are unique to each area. Whether you’re a foodie or a novice, exploring the various dishes from around the country is an adventure you don’t want to miss.
