From sushi to ramen, Japan has always been celebrated worldwide for their variety of dishes, including tempura, yakitori, and udon. However, beyond these iconic dishes, Japan continues to introduce to us hidden culinary gems in unexpected regions of Japan that showcase the diversity of local food in Japan.
In our latest Japan food travel guide, we’ll take you on an unforgettable Japan food tour trip to discover some off the beaten track local food favourites. So, if you’re planning a Japan food travel trip or just looking to explore the country’s diverse local cuisines, these top 10 lesser-known delicacies showcase the best of Japan’s off the beaten path
Tokyo: Kichijoji-Age
A selection of freshly fried snacks at a local stall in Kichijōji. Source: Going Awesome Places
If you’re looking for the best food in Kichijoji, Kichijoji-Age is a must-try delicacy. This unique dish has its roots in the heart of this charming Tokyo neighbourhood, making it a local favourite.
What is Kichijoji-Age?
Kichijoji-Age is a deep-fried tofu snack that is mixed with minced vegetables, seafood, and seasonings. Additionally, the term “age” (揚げ) is an adjective that describes food fried in oil that covers it.
Certainly, Kichijoji-Age is a local favourite, and it’s easy to see why. After all, it’s a simple yet packed with flavour, with its convenient size making it the perfect on-the-go snack.
Where To Eat Kichijoji-Age
You can find kichijoji-age at local markets and food stalls scattered around the area. Tsukada Suisan is our go-to for Kichijoji-Age located a few minutes from Kichijoji Station and offers a variety of local Kichijoji delicacies.
Located in: Daiya Shopping Arcade
Address: 1 Chome-1-8 Kichijoji Honcho, Musashino, Tokyo 180-0004, Japan
TIP: Why not try your Kichijoji food tour at other neighbourhood favourites like Corn Barley Kichijoji and Tsukemen Enji Kichijoji, each perfectly capturing the essence of food in Kichijoji.
Osaka: Kushikatsu
A classic serving of Kushikatsu. Source: Japan Travel
When it comes to food in Osaka, few dishes capture the city’s lively culinary spirit quite like Kushikatsu. This must eat food in Osaka is made out of skewered meats, vegetables, and seafood, coated in a light breadcrumb batter and deep-fried to golden perfection.
Why Eat Kushikatsu?
Not only does kushikatsu have an addictive crunch, but it also comes in various options from pork and onion to more adventurous bites. Plus, the restaurant sets up a unique way to eat kushikatsu by placing a communal bowl of savoury sauce around the customers for dipping. That means no double-dipping! In any case, this is a very important rule
Where To Eat Kushikatsu
To experience the best kushikatsu Osaka has to offer, head to Bon Kushikatsu to discover what it truly means to eat Kushikatsu Osaka-style. Access your navigation app with Jetpac to easily find this local Osaka favourite!
Located in: Dojima Merry Center Building
Address: 1 Chome-3-16 Dojima, Kita Ward, Osaka, 530-0003, Japan
Kyoto: Kaiseki
An exquisite Kaiseki dinner in Kyoto. Source: For Two, Please
Kyoto’s culinary scene is known to be elegant and premium, taking pride in haute cuisine. One of the most notable culinary experiences in Kyoto is the Kaiseki, a traditional multi-course meal known for its fresh seasonal ingredients, meticulous preparation, and sophisticated presentation.
Why Eat Kaiseki in Kyoto?
Undoubtedly, kaiseki showcases what good food in Kyoto is like, each dish highlighting the traditional culinary elegance of Kaiseki Kyoto perfection. Although Kyoto is home to some of the most prestigious kaiseki restaurants, there are some hidden gems that offer Kyoto kaiseki affordable options without compromising on quality.
Where to Eat Kaiseki
Kaiseki Kinmata is the top pick for the best kaiseki Kyoto meal on a budget. Located in a traditional Kyomachiya house with a history of more than 200 years, Kaiseki Kinmata is the perfect kaiseki restaurant Kyoto can offer to both locals and tourists.
Address: 407 Dainichicho, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto, 604-8044, Japan
Okinawa: Jef
The storefront of Jef, an iconic local fast-food chain in Okinawa famous for its unique regional menu items like the Goya Burger. Source: V-Trip
Fast food in Okinawa Japan is recognised nationwide thanks to Jef, a standout fast food chain known for its Okinawa Goya Burgers.
Jef takes pride in combining American-style burgers with distinctly local flavours, with their Jef Burger Okinawa as a prime example of this fusion. This burger incorporates the slightly bitter and earthy taste of goya, creating an extraordinary taste that feels uniquely Okinawan.
The Western History of Okinawan Food
Dating back to World War II, Western flavours heavily influenced Okinawa’s food culture because of Okinawa’s history as the site of American military bases decades ago.
For that reason, locals describe Okinawa food as a local interpretation of American dishes, so besides trying out the usual traditional Okinawan food like goya soba, good food in Okinawa can also be found in Jef where burgers meet goya and fast food gets a local twist!
Where To Eat Jef Burgers
Jef Burger Okinawa is located in various areas of Okinawa. While you’re in Okinawa, you can access data on your phone via Jetpac to check which branch is closest to you.
Yonabaru Address: 467 Ueyonabaru, Yonabaru, Shimajiri District, Okinawa 901-1302, Japan
Tomigusuku Address: 66-1 Tagami, Tomigusuku, Okinawa 901-0234, Japan
Naha Address: 1 Chome-1-5 Tsuboya, Naha, Okinawa 902-0065, Japan
Kobe: Sobameshi
A steaming plate of Sobameshi, a unique comfort food from Kobe made by stir-frying rice and chopped noodles together on a teppan grill. Source: Eats.jp
Besides the iconic Kobe beef steak and Kobe beef burgers, there’s a local dish that is equally worth your attention: Sobameshi Kobe. This beloved comfort food originated during a time where ingredients of most Kobe food dishes were scarce, so they had to make the most out of leftovers. Therefore, Sobameshi Kobe was created.
What is Sobameshi Kobe?
Sobameshi Kobe mainly consists of two Japanese staples, yakisoba (fried noodles) and fried rice stir-fried together on a hot teppan grill seasoned with a rich, tangy sauce. Eventually, Sobameshi Kobe became one of the most famous food in Kobe Japan; a hearty, flavourful dish stemming from the history of Kobe’s working-class locals.
Where to Eat Sobameshi Kobe
Although restaurants like Kobe Beef Steak Mouriya Gion offer high-end options like premium Kobe cuts and dishes, immerse yourself in true local Kobe culture by ordering a sobameshi in Hakusan Okonomiyaki.
Located in: SAN PLAZA
Address: 1-8, Sannomiya, Chuo-ku, Kobe Hyogo Prefecture
Fukuoka: Motsunabe
A ladle serves a helping of Motsunabe, a nutritious and flavourful hot pot originating from Fukuoka that has become a soul food staple across Japan. Source: Guidoor Media
When exploring Fukuoka food, it’s a definite need to try out the iconic hot pot dish Motsunabe. This Fukuoka specialty is a hot pot meal made from beef or pork offal, typically simmered in a savoury broth with garlic, cabbage, and chives. Add tofu and vegetables into the mix too for variety!
Why Order Motsunabe?
What makes Motsunabe one of the best food in Fukuoka is its bold, umami-rich flavours that meld together into a comforting and delicious meal. The best motsunabe Fukuoka is proud to serve is slow-cooked to perfection and paired with dipping sauces that elevate the dish to a new level. Motsunabe will always be a Fukuoka favourite, especially during winter!
Where To Eat Motsunabe
For the best Motsunabe, Fukuoka introduces you to Motsukou, a long-established motsunabe restaurant serving customers for over 40 years. Certainly, indulge yourself in a hearty motsunabe meal and discover the greatness of food in Fukuoka.
Address: 7-14 Tsunabamachi, Hakata Ward, Fukuoka, 812-0024, Japan
Sapporo: Jingisukan
Jingisukan, or “Genghis Khan,” is a grilled mutton dish cooked on a distinctive convex metal skillet, serving as a signature culinary experience in Hokkaido. Source: byFood
Wondering what food in Hokkaido is like? In Hokkaido, jingisukan is a dish that showcases the diversity and creativity of the region’s cuisine.
What is Jingisukan?
Named after the Mongolian leader Genghis Khan, this meal consists of tender cuts of grilled lamb or mutton. Interestingly, the word “jingisukan” is an example of gairaigo, a loanword that has been adapted into Japanese form “Genghis Khan.”
Additionally, eating lamb is common in Hokkaido, especially in Sapporo, unlike other parts of Japan.
For the best food in Sapporo, definitely include jingisukan on your list. Cooked on a dome-shaped Jingisukan grill which is designed to allow the juices of the meat to flow down and coat a bed of vegetables below. Talk about smoky and savoury goodness!
Since the 20th century, this dish is a regional staple food in Sapporo.
Where To Eat Jingisukan
As a must-try in Sapporo, Jingisukan can be ordered in Jingisukan Daruma, a well-loved restaurant chain known for their jingisukan and other Hokkaido food delicacies.
Address: 4 Chome, Minami 4 Jonishi, Chuo War, Sapporo, Hokkaido
Gifu: Hida Beef
A presentation of Hida Beef. Source: Visit Gifu
Although Gifu is best known for its charming “gassho-zukuri” (合掌造り) houses, particularly in the UNESCO World Heritage site of Shirakawa-go, it is also home to one of Japan’s most prized culinary treasures: Hida Beef.
What is Hida Beef?
This premium wagyu beef, renowned for its exceptional marbling, tenderness, and rich flavour, is raised in the region’s pristine environment, making it a must-try delicacy for food enthusiasts visiting Gifu.
Even though there continues to be an ongoing Hida Beef vs Kobe Beef debate on which wagyu is better, Hida Beef has its own charm as a premium wagyu meat.
Overall, the secret of Hida Beef lies in how they treat their cattle. Raised in the beautiful mountains of the Hida region, livestock farmers make sure these cattle are raised in a pristine environment with pure, clean air and water. Because these farmers take extra care of the cattle, Hida beef comes out with a tender texture, high marbling, and a rich flavour.
Where To Eat Hida Beef
To find the best Hida Beef, head to the lovely town of Takayama where you will find Ajikura Tengoku and their beautifully marbled Hida Beef served yakiniku-style. Indeed, it is not a complete trip in Gifu without tasting the enticing flavours of Hida Beef.
Address: 4 Chome-308 Hanasatomachi, Takayama, Gifu 506-0026, Japan
TIP: Hida Beef can be enjoyed in various ways in the forms of burgers, sukiyaki, yakiniku, and even sushi.
Nagoya: Hitsumabushi
Hitsumabushi, a specialty of Nagoya. Source: Wikipedia
If you’re wondering what Nagoya food has in store for you, then look no further! When it comes to food in Nagoya, there’s one dish that stands out above the rest: Nagoya Hitsumabushi.
What is Hitsumabushi?
Firstly, the unique local specialty of Nagoya consists of thinly sliced unagi (eel) grilled kabayaki style on rice. While the Nagoya sushi all-you-can-eat craze might be tempting for some, the true taste of Nagoya can be found in the delicate flavours of Hitsumabushi.
What makes Hitsumabushi Nagoya special is the savoury-sweet sauce that is brushed on top of the unagi, followed by a char-grilled procedure that is guaranteed to make you drool.
In fact, chefs serve Hitsumabushi in three different ways, either plain, mixed with condiments like wasabi, and as an ochazuke aka broth-soaked rice. Indeed, this allows you to experience the flavours of Hitsumabushi in different ways, highlighting the quality of food in Nagoya.
Where To Eat Hitsumabushi
Without a doubt, a top recommendation for Hitsumabushi in Nagoya is the Nagoya Hitsumabushi Bincho.
Located in: Dai Nagoya Building
Address: 3 Chome−28−12, Meieki, Nakamura Ward, Aichi, Nagoya
TIP: The restaurant’s menu is 100% written in the Japanese language, so download Google Translate just in case.
Aomori: Ringo Gyoza
A hearty serving of Chicken Katsu Curry, a comforting favourite often enjoyed by travellers as their first meal in Aomori. Source: Suggestion of Motion
When thinking about Aomori famous food, the first thing that comes to mind is the region’s celebrated apples. As the apple capital of Japan, Aomori takes pride in their apples which are considered the best and finest apples throughout the entirety of Japan.
In Aomori, local food heavily incorporates apples into their dishes, like their must-try Ringo Gyoza!
What is Ringo Gyoza?
Gyoza are Japanese dumplings stuffed with ground meat and vegetables and then pan-fried until crisp and golden. In fact, it’s a popular nationwide dish in Japan, and there are many variations to this well-loved dish.
For Aomori, this meant stuffing gyoza with apples instead, introducing the Ringo Gyoza aka Japanese apple dumplings!
Unlike the common gyoza, which is savoury, ringo gyoza is more on the sweet side. For Ringo Gyoza, chefs soften the Aomori apple with syrup and lemon juice before stuffed into the gyoza wrapper. Sometimes, it’s served with maple syrup and ice cream on the side for maximum sweetness!
Where To Eat Ringo Gyoza
For a true Aomori experience, head to Osanai Shokudo and enjoy the restaurant’s apple-inspired dishes including the Ringo Gyoza!
Address: 1-1-17 Shimmachi 1F, Aomori 030-0801 Aomori Prefecture
TIP: Check out the vibrant Aomori Nebuta Matsuri where you can find a range of creative Aomori Nebuta Matsuri food delicacies with apples. For example, they serve candied apples, apple-flavoured sweets, and even apple tempura!
Discover Japan’s Culinary Secrets with Jetpac!
Certainly, exploring the local food of Japan is a journey that goes beyond what’s often found on mainstream menus, revealing the heart and soul of Japan regional food. So, let these 10 local Japanese dishes tell you a story of culinary culture, tradition, and creativity from Japan’s local food culture.
Figuring out how to get to these regional locations? Stay connected anywhere in Japan by maximising the Jetpac’s e-sim, letting you access fast and consistent wi-fi even in the most rural regions of Japan.
