Ryo Iwa– Author –
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Kabura Sushi (かぶら寿司)
There is a moment, usually in mid-November, when Kanazawa quietly announces that winter has arrived. It is not the snow, not yet. It is the thunder. Locals call it "buri-okoshi," the rumbling that signals the start of yellowtail season o... -
Onigiri and the Art of Eating on the Go in Japan
There is something quietly perfect about onigiri. You pick one up at a convenience store, peel back the plastic wrapper in three quick steps, and in under a minute you have a satisfying meal in your hand. No plates. No utensils. Just ins... -
Why Authentic Japanese Dishes Fail Without the Right Kitchen Tools
Authentic Japanese dishes are known for their clean flavors, precise cuts, and careful presentation. Every step in the kitchen matters, from slicing vegetables to handling rice. Preparation is deliberate, and each action serves a clear p... -
What Is Nodoguro? Taste, Season & Best Restaurants
"I want to try nodoguro, but where can I find it?" Many people have likely had this thought. Every time it's featured on TV, it becomes a hot topic, drawing in locals from fishing ports and tourists from across the country who travel spe... -
Japanese Breakfast: What It Really Says About Daily Life in Japan
When most people picture Japanese breakfast, they imagine something quiet, balanced, and distinctly different from the bacon-and-eggs plates common in Western countries. That image is not entirely wrong — but it is also far from complete... -
The Complete Kansai Food Guide You Didn’t Know You Needed
If you're planning a trip to Japan, the Kansai region is probably already on your list. Kyoto, Osaka, Nara are names that almost everyone recognizes. But here's the thing: most travelers spend so much time planning what to see that they ... -
Eihire (エイひれ)
You pass through the noren curtain of an Izakaya and order a beer to start. After the first toast, you open the menu. Often, your eyes will land on "Grilled Eihire." It is not a flashy main dish. However, its simple appearance ... -
Okayama Fruits (岡山県のフルーツ)
Anyone who has visited Okayama has likely heard the phrase "Okayama, the Fruit Kingdom." If you actually try the fruit there, you’ll quickly understand why it’s so famous. The moment you take a bite, the sweetness, juiciness, and aroma h... -
Survival Guide: How to Order Food in Japan with No English Menu
Picture this scenario. You find a cozy, hidden alleyway eatery in Tokyo. The smell of grilled soy sauce is irresistible, so you step inside and sit down. You open the menu and suddenly freeze. There are no pictures. There is no English a... -
Echigo hime (越後ひめ)
When you think of strawberries in Niigata Prefecture, Echigo hime is the undisputed star. However, many people in Tokyo or Osaka may have never even seen them. In fact, this rarity is one of the defining characteristics of the Echigohime...