Best Ramen Restaurants in Kumamoto

Dec 24, 2022 By Justin Hanus

Kumamoto is a culinary center in Japan, but a top dish from the city has to be its ramen. Kumamoto-style ramen consists of pork broth, medium-size noodles, and toppings of Kikurage mushrooms, green onions, and pork (called chashu). You can also find Tamana ramen in Kumamoto, made of pork bone...[ Click to read more ]

Making Mochi – Fun for Kids and Big Kids Alike

Dec 23, 2022 By Bert Wishart

When I first heard about mochi, my heart went out to Japan's children. You see, where I'm from, sweets really are just that: sweet. And so, when I was told that one of the most popular forms of confectionaries in Japan was a cake made from rice and typically stuffed...[ Click to read more ]

Popular Seafood Markets and Ports in the Kansai Region

By Justin Hanus

Japan is well known for its seafood — in fact, seafood is a major part of its culture. To find the freshest dishes, your best option is to head to one of the numerous seafood markets around the country. The good news is there’s no need to prepare the produce...[ Click to read more ]

New Year Countdown Parties Near Nagoya 2022

Dec 13, 2022 By Bert Wishart

New Year is an important time in Japan, but things are celebrated differently here than back home. You are undoubtedly already clued up on Japan's New Year traditions, its New Year's foods, and the shrines to visit for Hatsumoude in Nagoya. But did you know that there are also New...[ Click to read more ]

What is Okonomiyaki and Where to Eat It in Hiroshima

Nov 29, 2022 By Justin Hanus

Hiroshima has plenty of local cuisines, but okonomiyaki stands out as the city's specialty. The dish consists of a batter of wheat flour, mirin, and water made beforehand and chilled to give it a smooth texture. The chef cooks this batter with other ingredients, usually cabbage, noodles, and some kind...[ Click to read more ]

Great Pubs for Expats in Kumamoto

By Justin Hanus

Kumamoto has a vibrant nightlife that draws in locals and foreigners alike. There are many excellent pubs for expats to check out, ranging from small intimate bars to live music spots to bars where revelers can drink and dance late into the night. Here are a few spots to visit...[ Click to read more ]

Great Winter Food in Kansai

By Justin Hanus

Japan can get pretty chilly during the winter months. Fortunately, the country excels when it comes to hearty winter meals. As are regional variations, seasonal ingredients and dishes are very important in Japanese cuisine. Many of the country’s staple dishes have several different regional twists. Here is a selection of...[ Click to read more ]

Japanese New Years’ Traditions

Nov 24, 2022 By Jason Gatewood

New Year is the main holiday of the year in Japan, and the country shuts down for several days as people take time off to spend time with their families and relax. As with Christmas celebrations in the West, numerous customs and traditions are observed at New Year. Here are...[ Click to read more ]

Holiday Dining Options in Nagoya 2022

Nov 21, 2022 By Ray Proper

Nagoya has excellent local cuisine, and numerous wonderful options are available at any time of year. However, during the holidays, you may need some hints on where to get your fill of holiday tastes and treats. However, there is no cause for alarm, as we have you covered with a...[ Click to read more ]

Get Bowled Over by Nagoya’s Donburi

Oct 31, 2022 By Bert Wishart

Simplicity in itself, the donburi is the go-to dish for those who want a combination of filling food and flexibility. Though donburi literally means bowl, it generally refers to a bowl of rice with a single topping, often consisting of fish, meat, vegetables, or other ingredients simmered together. That is...[ Click to read more ]