Ryo Iwa– Author –
Ryo Iwa is the founder and editor of foodinjapan.org. Born and raised in Japan, he writes from regional travel, market visits, and Japanese-language primary sources that rarely reach English readers, including brewing institute publications and industry glossaries. Where a figure cannot be traced to a source, the article says so.
He has been a Google Maps Local Guide for over 10 years, with more than 1,800 reviews and over 41,000 photos viewed hundreds of millions of times. He previously spent two decades as an IT consultant in Japan, the US, and the UK.
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Article
Fuel Your Finals: The Definitive Guide to the 5 Best Japanese Food Experiences Near UCLA
Introduction: The UCLA Hustle and the Search for Perfect Fuel Let's be real: life at UCLA is a constant juggle. You're sprinting from a lecture in Bunche Hall to a lab in the biomedical building, cramming for a midterm at Powell Library,... -
Japanese Sushi
More Than Just Sushi: A Blueprint for Why Japanese Cuisine is the Future of College Cafeterias
Introduction: The Evolution of the Campus Dining Hall The American college cafeteria is in the middle of a serious glow-up. Gone are the days when the only options were sad salad bars, questionable "mystery meat," and vats of overcooked ... -
Article
Beyond California Rolls: The Japanese Dishes Redefining the American College Diet
Introduction: The New Wave of Japanese Food on Campus Not that long ago, Japanese food on campus meant two things: California rolls and teriyaki chicken. That was pretty much it. That's completely different now. Students today treat food... -
Article
Chipolata Sausage in Japan: A Small Sausage with a Big Role
When people think about food in Japan, they usually imagine traditional dishes: miso soup, grilled fish, rice, pickles, ramen, sushi, and seasonal vegetables arranged with care. But modern Japanese eating is also full of quiet Western in... -
Fukuoka
Amaou Strawberry(あまおう): Japan’s King of Fruits
The strawberry is a true standout among Japanese fruits. The Amaou strawberry is one of the many varieties that shines because of its impressive qualities. This high-end brand from Fukuoka Prefecture is famous all over Japan. People love... -
Article
What is Shochikubai? A Guide to Understanding Matsu, Take, and Ume on Japanese Restaurant Menus
When dining in Japan, especially at traditional restaurants like sushi bars or unagi establishments, you might notice three particular kanji characters on the menu: 松 (Matsu), 竹 (Take), and 梅 (Ume). For many tourists, their meaning ca... -
Japanese Sushi
Beyond Sushi: Family-Friendly Food Adventures Across Japan
Japan is a land of vibrant culture and rich tradition, but its culinary scene often steals the spotlight with its innovative yet comforting offerings. While sushi and ramen are staples that many travelers gravitate toward, there's a trea... -
Japanese Fruit
Awayuki Strawberries (淡雪いちご)
Awayuki (淡雪) is a rare white-pink Japanese strawberry from Kumamoto Prefecture. Farmers grow it in very small quantities on select farms in Kyushu. The skin ranges from creamy white to soft blush pink. Moreover, sugar content often rea... -
Japan
How Japanese Cuisine Can Transform Business Event Catering
Japanese cuisine, known for its artful presentation and intricate flavors, offers a unique approach to business event catering that can leave attendees delighted and impressed. The meticulous attention to detail and emphasis on fresh, se... -
Japan
The History and Regionality of Japanese Soy Sauce (Shoyu)
Introduction: The Cornerstone of Japanese Cuisine Japanese soy sauce, otherwise referred to as "shoyu," is a pivotal fermented condiment that cooks regard as a fundamental element of Japanese culinary culture. This condiment is not merel...
