Japan is famous for its rich culinary and drinking culture, and among its most beloved beverages are Nihonshu (日本酒, Japanese brewed alcohol, also known as “Sake” overseas), shochu (焼酎, distilled spirit), and awamori (泡盛, Okinawan distilled spirit). Each of these drinks has a unique history, flavor […]
As you lie in bed, dozing away after a long day at school, a lovely aroma wafts into your bedroom from the kitchen downstairs, shaking you from your sleep. It seems Mom has cooked up your favorite. You let the savory scent fill your lungs, and […]
Hello, fellow travelers! I have an excitingly sweet topic for us to sink our teeth into today. When you think of Japan, beyond the breathtaking scenery, the first thing that pops into your mind is the food, right? But what about the sweeter side of Japan's […]
Wagyu has become shorthand for luxury beef across the world, but within Japan, this word carries a much deeper and more nuanced meaning. Wagyu simply translates to “Japanese cow,” yet behind lies a complex network of regional identities, bloodlines, feeding philosophies, and centuries-old traditions. Much like […]
Have you ever enjoyed a traditional bowl of ramen and wondered about that little white slice with the pink swirl? These colorful garnishes are called kamaboko, a type of cured surimi made from pureed white fish formed into a loaf. They are typically seasoned and colored […]
What is Sake? If you’ve ever wandered into a Japanese izakaya and seen people sipping from small ceramic cups, chances are they were enjoying sake, Japan’s beloved rice-based alcohol. Sake has been part of Japanese life for over a thousand years, made with just three ingredients […]
A cold night on the brightly lit streets of Osaka. There you are, sitting in a restaurant surrounded by a sweet, caramelized aroma. You take a slice of marbled beef and slowly dip it into the raw egg, and the contrast surprises you. The meat, seared […]
In a world full of matcha lovers, there’s another component in Japan that is loved by many but may not be as well-known, called ‘anko.’ Anko (餡子 or あんこ) is made from red azuki beans and has a gentle, sweet taste. It is usually a key […]
When you think of “autumn” and “food,” what kinds of meals or ingredients would come to mind for you? You might think of parsnips, butternut squash or pumpkins, maybe even cooking a pumpkin pie using your Halloween leftovers. Or in terms of fruit, maybe apples & […]
Frequently, traditional-style accommodations in Japan are labelled as simply “inns.” However, just like the West has its hotels, motels, and B&Bs, Japan has its own distinctive categories of accommodation as well. Most Japanese inns can be categorized as either minshuku or ryokan, and to ensure you […]
