Japan is a country rich in mouthwatering cuisine, so no trip is complete without indulging in its unique food scene. From hearty Udon noodles to iconic food markets, this country’s culinary offerings are as diverse as its regions. Curious about how much a meal costs in Japan? You’ll find a variety of dishes that suit different budgets, depending on the location and type of dining experience. On average, a simple meal at a local restaurant may cost between ¥500 to ¥1,200 (approximately $5 to $13 AUD). If you’re wondering what to do in Japan, why not eat your way around it? Let’s explore some of the best must-try dishes that will make your visit to Japan unforgettable.

Udon うどん

For an authentic taste of the country, make sure to try Udon noodles. They’re thick strings of dough made of wheat flour with the shape and size depending on the prefecture they are from. Sanuki Udon from Kagawa prefecture is one of the most famous regional styles. You’ll spot it on menus in hot dishes like Kake Udon and cold dishes like Zaru Udon.

Eating them is an interesting experience as slurping enhances the flavours and helps cool down hot noodles. If there’s a broth, it’s usually drunk directly from the bowl so you don’t need a spoon. It’s also customary to leave unfinished soup in the bowl at the end of the meal. Trying different regional styles is a key part of the Japanese food experience.

No noodle dish is complete without something to sip so why not reach for Japanese rice wine, or sake? If you’re on our Ultimate Japan tour, you’ll visit the fascinating Hakutsuru Sake Brewery Museum. This historic hotspot features displays about the fermentation process and includes samples of Japan’s national spirit. In most cases, sake’s alcohol volume varies around 13% ABV. This makes it lighter than regular spirits like vodka or rum, and slightly stronger than most wines. Learning how to drink sake is an essential part of Japanese dining culture, and there are many delicious sake pairings for Udon.

Tempura 天ぷら

Introduced to Japan during the 16th century by the Portuguese, tempura is pieces of seafood and vegetables that are lightly battered and deep-fried. This classic dish is one of the best culinary experiences in Japan. The most popular pieces of tempura include shrimp, prawns, fish, eggplant and more.

Tempura is best eaten lightly salted or dipped into a sauce, although travellers also love it accompanied by a small bowl of grated daikon (giant white radish). For an authentic experience, if it’s not your main meal, you might find it served as toppings on noodle soups, in soba noodle salads or even as a side dish. Finding a dedicated tempura omakase restaurant is a true highlight of any Tokyo food tour.

If you’ve fallen into a food coma, here are the Best Things To Do in Japan instead. Time to hit the Toontown rides at Disneyland, anyone? 

Sashimi 刺身

You can’t miss Japan’s local specialty of sashimi! It’s thinly sliced, raw food such as seafood, shellfish, beef and more. Japan is big on presentation so you’ll usually find it garnished with finely cut daikon radish, shiso leaves or even small flowers. Most types of sashimi are enjoyed with wasabi or dipped into soy sauce.

If you want to thank your host or chef after you’ve enjoyed a meal in Japan, you can politely say arigato gozaimasu ありがとう ございます.

Consider yourself a real foodie? You’ll love our Grand Japan as you’ll have the chance to visit Tsukiji Outer Market on a sightseeing tour of Tokyo. This is where you’ll encounter traditional Japanese cuisine and food-related goods, such as Japanese cooking utensils. While you’re here, you can’t miss Daiwa Sushi since This Is Where You’ll Find the Freshest Sushi in Tokyo. We recommend this ultimate Tokyo food experience for all travellers.

Okonomiyaki お好み焼き

Okonomiyaki is a popular pan-fried savory dish made with batter and cabbage, similar to a pancake. Okonomi means ‘to one’s liking’ so your toppings and ingredients can vary greatly. It’s usually filled with octopus, shrimp, pork or yam, but you may also find it topped with wasabi and cheese.

Make sure that sampling this authentic street food dish is on your list when you’re researching what to do in Osaka, because it’s particularly popular here! Osaka is considered the nation’s kitchen and always one of the 8 Places We Can’t Wait to Visit in Japan. For the best Okonomiyaki, search for the local street food vendors.

Wagashi 和菓子

There’s always room for dessert so treat your sweet tooth to wagashi. It’s usually made from ingredients like sweet azuki bean paste (anko), rice cakes (mochi), Japanese agar (kanten), sesame paste and chestnuts. You’ll find these delightful bites in a variety of shapes, consistencies and colours like pink and green! 

These traditional Japanese sweets are typically enjoyed with a cup of green tea so if you want to know The Best Things to Do in Tokyo According to a Local, you can’t miss Shorakuen Tea Salon & Boutique. This tiny tea shop has a Wes Anderson movie vibe with plush pink velvet banquettes and staff dressed as 1930s maids. This is a highly-rated, unique experience.

If you’re interested in having a true Japanese culinary experience, TripADeal through Japan with our unbelievable Japan packages! No one does it better which is why we also offer the chance to earn Qantas Points with every booking. Book your unforgettable Japan trip today!