Japan holds more Michelin stars than any other country. Whether you are eating from a vending machine, a ramen stand or a 10-course kaiseki restaurant, the dedication to quality, presentation and flavour is extraordinary.
Japan's most iconic comfort food – rich broth (shoyu, miso, tonkotsu or shio), chewy noodles, chashu pork, soft egg and nori. Each region has its own signature style.
From conveyor belt kaiten-zushi restaurants to the chef's-choice omakase experience, Japan offers sushi at every price point – always fresh, always precise.
Osaka's famous octopus balls – crispy outside, gooey inside, topped with bonito flakes, mayonnaise and takoyaki sauce. A must-try street food experience.
Kyoto is the home of Japanese tea culture. Enjoy ceremonial-grade matcha in a garden teahouse or try matcha-flavoured ice cream, mochi and wagashi sweets.
Japan's beloved gastropub culture – informal, sociable, and delicious. Order yakitori, edamame, karaage chicken and cold Sapporo beer in a lively local izakaya.
Japan's traditional multi-course haute cuisine, originating in Kyoto's tea ceremony tradition. Each seasonal dish is a work of art combining flavour, texture and visual presentation.
Understanding Japanese customs will enrich your trip enormously and show respect to your hosts. Here are the key cultural practices every visitor should know.
Bowing is Japan's primary form of greeting. A 15-degree bow is typical for casual acknowledgement; deeper bows indicate greater respect. As a visitor, a slight nod or gentle bow is always appreciated and warmly received.
Always remove your shoes when entering a home, many traditional restaurants, some temples and most ryokan. Slippers are usually provided. Never step on a tatami mat with shoes or outdoor slippers.
Japanese trains and buses are quiet spaces. Phone calls should be avoided, music kept to headphones, and conversations kept low. Priority seats for elderly, pregnant and disabled passengers must always be respected.
Slurping noodles is not only acceptable in Japan – it is considered a sign of appreciation! Finish your soup to compliment the chef. Do not tip in Japan; it can actually be considered rude or confusing.
| Season | Festival / Event | Location | What to Expect |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spring | Hanami (Cherry Blossom Viewing) | Nationwide | Picnics under blooming sakura trees, lantern-lit evening viewings, festive food stalls |
| Spring | Aoi Matsuri | Kyoto | One of Kyoto's three great festivals – a grand imperial procession in Heian-era costumes through the city streets to Shimogamo Shrine |
| Summer | Gion Matsuri | Kyoto | Japan's most famous festival spanning the entire month of July with elaborate floats (yamaboko), street food and traditional performances |
| Autumn | Koyo (Autumn Foliage) | Nationwide | Temple gardens transform into spectacular displays of red, orange and gold. Tofuku-ji temple in Kyoto is particularly famous |
| Winter | Sapporo Snow Festival | Sapporo | Massive snow and ice sculptures displayed across the city for one week in February, accompanied by winter food stalls and illuminations |