East Asian Japan is an island nation. It is located in the northwest Pacific Ocean and is bordered on the west by the Sea of Japan. Its northern border is formed by the Sea of Okhotsk, and its southern border is formed by Taiwan, the East China Sea, and the Philippine Sea.
Are you familiar with izakaya? Izakaya is a Japanese restaurant, in case you didn’t know. Would you like to go to Japan? Do you like to know more about the local cuisine and culture? If you’re interested, come learn more about their specialty foods and cultural practices!
Japanese Cuisine
The world loves Japanese cuisine because it is so tasty. Due to the fact that a lot of it is based on plants, vegetables, and seafood, it also has the advantage of being healthier than the majority of Western cuisine. Japanese cuisine is something you should absolutely try if you haven’t already enjoyed cooking or eating it.
Yakitori
Despite the fact that the name “yakitori” technically translates to “grilled chicken,” this idea includes various forms of skewered meat (and vegetables) cooked on a grill. This meal, which can be obtained in a variety of eateries and specialized stores, is straightforward and savory and has an endless amount of possible pairings. It is especially advised to try another dish from the real popular Japanese cuisine when going to a reputable izakaya.
Sushi
Sushi is a beloved meal not only in Japan but also in the West. Raw seafood is typically served as sushi atop or in vinegared rice. Tuna, salmon, squid, and prawns are often used ingredients, along with cucumber, pickled radish, and sweet egg. Although certain sushi dishes are cooked, raw sushi is often served. Sushi can also be served in rolls that are covered in yuba, rice paper, or dried seaweed sheets (soybean skin.)
Tempura
Tempura is typically prepared by coating seafood, vegetables, or prawns in an egg, water, and wheat flour mixture and deep-frying them in vegetable oil. The coating has a lacy, delicate, golden appearance after frying. It’s delicious and gorgeous at the same time!
Sashimi
Fresh, raw meat or seafood that has been thinly sliced and served with a dipping sauce, such as soy sauce, is known as Sashimi in Japan. Sashimi, in contrast to sushi, is always served raw and without rice. Sushi can sometimes be served cooked.
Tofu Soup
A soy-based miso paste is dissolved in a stock known as “dashi” to create miso soup, a traditional dish frequently served at the beginning of a meal. Depending on the region, the season, and the individual’s preferences, there are countless alternatives for additional ingredients that can be added. Chickpeas can also be used to make miso paste if you have a soy allergy.
Ramen
The majority of people are familiar with ramen, particularly its well-known quick variant, but when visiting Japan, you’ll be pleasantly astonished by its incredible flavor (certainly not even similar to its cup cousin) and the vast array of options. Soy sauce, miso, dashi, and a variety of other seasonings can be used to flavor the broth, which can be made from chicken, pork, cattle, fish, or vegetables. While scallions, seaweed, tofu, and bamboo shoots are typically used, there are countless other ways to prepare this dish. Each location, as well as each restaurant, may have a unique recipe, occasionally producing incredibly inventive and delicious meals. The ramen-specific noodles have a very characteristic feel that is soft but slightly bite-like.
Culture And Customs Of Japan Before You Visit
For most travelers, the land of the rising sun is a dream vacation because Japan is known for having a distinctive culture and customs. For visitors to behave properly and respect the “host,” it is crucial to be familiar with the local culture. Here are some things you should know about Japan’s culture and manners if you’re considering visiting there soon or are already planning a trip there.
Bow When Greeting Someone
In accordance with Japanese social custom, people bow when they welcome someone with respect. There are two different respectful bowing gestures: a small headbow or a 90-degree bow when seated and standing, respectively. However, there is no requirement to bow when greeting international visitors. It is only acceptable if you are familiar with their traditions and culture if you want to bow respectfully.
No Tipping
When traveling abroad, it’s customary to tip as a substitute for saying “thank you.” The Japanese culture, on the other hand, does not accept tips because this conduct is regarded as disrespectful.
Using Chopsticks
The most crucial thing to understand when dining at a Japanese stall or restaurant is that using chopsticks to eat is not permitted. This behavior, which is seen as a negative omen in Japan, is similar to a burial ritual. Using chopsticks to cut or poke food is also frowned upon. Slice the food properly by taking little bites out of it.
Christmas Day Is A Romantic Day
Japanese people will observe Christmas as a day to honor lovers in addition to Valentine’s Day. Even though there are only 2% of Christians in Japan, everyone there celebrates Christmas Day, especially on Christmas Eve.
