What to Eat in Japan - The most popular dishes among tourists in 2024

Japan, with its rich cultural heritage and innovative culinary scene, continues to captivate tourists from around the world. In 2024, Japanese cuisine remains a significant draw, offering a delightful blend of tradition and modernity. Among the myriad of dishes, one has risen to the forefront as the most popular among tourists: sushi. However, the appeal of Japanese cuisine extends beyond sushi, encompassing ramen, tempura, and street foods like takoyaki and okonomiyaki.

Sushi: The Timeless Favorite

Sushi has long been synonymous with Japanese cuisine, and in 2024, it remains the top choice for tourists. The allure of sushi lies in its delicate balance of flavors, textures, and aesthetics. Tokyo, with its famous Tsukiji Fish Market, continues to be a pilgrimage site for sushi lovers, offering the freshest and most exquisite sushi experiences.

From high-end sushi bars such as Sukiyabashi Jiro to conveyor belt sushi (kaitenzushi) restaurants, tourists can enjoy a range of experiences that cater to different budgets. The artistry involved in sushi preparation, combined with the opportunity to taste fresh, high-quality seafood, ensures sushi's enduring popularity.

Ramen: A Comforting Classic

Ramen, the comforting bowl of noodles in savory broth, has become a global phenomenon. In 2024, it remains a must-try dish for tourists in Japan. Each region boasts its own unique style, from the rich, pork-based tonkotsu ramen of Fukuoka to the soy sauce-infused shoyu ramen of Tokyo and the miso ramen of Hokkaido.

Ramen shops, or "ramen-ya," can be found throughout Japan, often with lines of eager patrons waiting to slurp up the delicious noodles. Tourists are drawn to famous establishments like Ichiran and Ippudo, where they can enjoy customized bowls of ramen with various toppings.

Tempura: Crispy Delights

Tempura, the art of deep-frying seafood and vegetables in a light, crispy batter, is another favorite among tourists. The delicate texture and subtle flavors of tempura make it an ideal dish for those seeking a refined culinary experience. Tempura restaurants, such as Ten-ichi in Tokyo, offer carefully crafted tempura using the finest ingredients.

Tourists are often intrigued by the meticulous preparation process, where chefs skillfully fry each piece to perfection. The interplay of textures and the accompanying dipping sauces enhance the overall dining experience, making tempura a memorable part of their culinary journey in Japan.

Street Food: A Taste of Local Culture

Japanese street food offers tourists a chance to explore local flavors in a casual, vibrant setting. Two standout street foods in 2024 are takoyaki and okonomiyaki.

Takoyaki, small round balls filled with octopus pieces, green onions, and pickled ginger, are a popular snack in Osaka. They are cooked in special molds and topped with takoyaki sauce, mayonnaise, and bonito flakes. The combination of a crispy exterior and a gooey interior makes takoyaki a delightful treat.

Okonomiyaki, often described as a savory pancake, is another beloved street food. Made with a batter of flour, eggs, shredded cabbage, and a variety of fillings (such as pork, seafood, or cheese), okonomiyaki is cooked on a griddle and topped with okonomiyaki sauce, mayonnaise, seaweed flakes, and bonito flakes. Hiroshima and Osaka are famous for their distinct styles of okonomiyaki, offering tourists a chance to taste regional variations.

A culinary landscape embedded in tradition

In 2024, Japan's culinary landscape continues to enchant tourists with its diversity and depth. While sushi remains the most popular Japanese food among tourists, the appeal of ramen, tempura, and street foods like takoyaki and okonomiyaki ensures that visitors have a rich tapestry of flavors to explore. Each dish tells a story of Japan's cultural heritage and culinary innovation, making the food journey an integral part of the overall travel experience.