Best Japanese Food: Top 10 Dishes to Try When You Visit

Next on the list is ramen, a savory noodle soup that has become a comfort food staple across the world. In Japan, you’ll find endless variations of ramen, from the rich, creamy tonkotsu (pork broth) in Fukuoka to the soy-based Shoyu ramen in Tokyo. Each region of Japan has its own version, making it a dish you can enjoy multiple times while traveling.

A journey through Japan, such as the The Land of the Rising Sun, allows you to sample ramen from different cities and prefectures, each offering its own unique spin on the dish.

Tonkatsu is a breaded and deep-fried pork cutlet served with shredded cabbage and a tangy sauce. It’s a favorite comfort food in Japan and is often served with rice and miso soup. This hearty dish is satisfying and perfect for a quick, casual meal.

During the Flavours of Japan Tour, travelers can enjoy Tonkatsu in local restaurants known for their masterful preparation of this simple yet delicious dish.

Okonomiyaki, often described as a Japanese-style savory pancake, is made from a batter mixed with cabbage, meat, seafood, and various toppings like mayonnaise and bonito flakes. It’s a popular street food in cities like Osaka and Hiroshima. The dish is highly customizable, with ingredients and toppings varying depending on where you are in Japan.

Travelers on the Imperial Capitals of Japan with Hiroshima Tour will get the chance to taste Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki, which layers the ingredients rather than mixing them, offering a delicious twist on this popular dish.

Sashimi, another staple of Japanese cuisine, consists of thin slices of raw fish or seafood served without rice. Known for its simplicity, sashimi emphasizes the freshness and quality of the seafood. You’ll find sashimi served at sushi restaurants and specialized seafood eateries.

On the Golden Foliage Journey, travelers can explore Japan during the autumn season, sampling some of the freshest sashimi in cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka, all renowned for their excellent seafood offerings.

Takoyaki, or octopus balls, are a beloved street food in Japan, known for their delightful flavor and texture. These small, round dumplings are filled with diced octopus, tempura scraps, and green onions and then drizzled with takoyaki sauce and mayonnaise. Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, they make for a delicious and addictive snack.
While touring Tokyo, Kyoto, and Hakone on the Highlights of Japan Tour, be sure to seek out this popular street food. Local vendors in these cities often serve their own unique versions of takoyaki, allowing you to enjoy this iconic dish as you immerse yourself in Japan's vibrant culinary scene.

Gyoza are Japanese-style dumplings filled with ground meat and vegetables, then pan-fried to crispy perfection. This dish, originally from China, has become a staple in Japanese izakayas (casual pubs) and ramen shops. The crispy outside and flavorful inside make it a favorite for locals and visitors alike.

Many travelers on the Imperial Capitals of Japan tour find themselves enjoying gyoza at ramen shops or during casual meals while exploring the country’s vibrant cities.

Unagi, or grilled freshwater eel, is a delicacy in Japan, often served over a bed of rice in a dish called unadon. The eel is glazed with a sweet and savory soy-based sauce and grilled until perfectly tender. Unagi is a traditional summer dish in Japan, believed to provide stamina and energy during the hot months.

To experience the best of unagi, the Southern Charms of Japan includes cities with the top eateries where this dish is served, allowing visitors to taste this prized delicacy in its finest form.

For a truly luxurious and unforgettable dining experience, you must try kaiseki, a traditional multi-course meal that highlights the seasonal ingredients and exquisite presentation. Each dish in a kaiseki meal is crafted with precision, from delicate sashimi and tempura to beautifully plated seasonal vegetables.

Kaiseki dining is available in many high-end restaurants in Kyoto, and the Grand Tour of Japan gives you the opportunity to enjoy this traditional meal while exploring the historical and cultural highlights of Japan.