Ryo Iwa– Author –
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Kasuzuke (粕漬け)
Kasuzuke (also known as sake-kasu-zuke) is a traditional Japanese fermented food, a technique that involves preserving and fermenting ingredients in a pickling bed made of sake-kasu (sake lees). This ancient preservation method transcend... -
What to Know Before Visiting Japan as a Picky Eater
Japan is a beautiful country and a highly coveted travel destination, renowned for its rich culture, stunning biodiversity, and intriguing architecture. Another favorite feature of Japan is the variety and popularity of its cuisine. From... -
Yumepirika (ゆめぴりか)
Hokkaido, one of Japan's foremost rice-producing regions, has channeled its extensive agricultural expertise into developing what it aimed to be "the most delicious rice in Japan." The result of this ambitious endeavor is "Yumepirika," a... -
Japanese Summer Food Guide: Cooling Dishes, Festivals, and Seasonal Culture
Japan's summer is no joke. The heat rolls in around late June and rarely lets go until September. In cities like Tokyo and Osaka, temperatures often climb past 35°C. Add heavy humidity on top of that, and eating feels like a whole differ... -
Sasanishiki (ささにしき) : Elegant Rice That Once Graced Japanese Tables
Sasanishiki rice once rivaled Koshihikari in popularity, cherished in countless Japanese homes. Its refined taste and remarkable ability to complement other ingredients—a true culinary supporting star—ensure its appeal endures. This arti... -
Alcohol in Japan: A Complete Guide to Drinks, Culture and Izakaya Prices
🍶 Japan Drinks Guide 2026 Alcohol in Japan: Historical Continuity and the Modern Paradigm Shift From the 16th-century distillation routes of Shochu and the rise of "Natural Sake," to techno-infused sake shrines and the izakaya culture t... -
Quiet Luxuries of the Sea: Exploring Hidden Gems in Japanese Seafood
Japan’s relationship with the sea is one of intimacy, reverence, and extraordinary culinary creativity. While many travelers arrive seeking the iconic — sushi, sashimi, and tempura — those who dive deeper discover a lesser-known world of... -
Delivery Food Culture in Japan: A Blend of Tradition and Innovation
Japan’s delivery food culture is not just about convenience—it’s a fascinating journey through centuries of culinary tradition, modern innovation, and unmatched variety. Whether you're a local resident or a curious traveler, the delivery... -
Everyday Eats in Japan: From Street Food to Fine Dining
From the sophisticated beauty of a Kyoto kaiseki supper to the busy food vendors of Osaka, Japan's cuisine scene is the ideal fusion of history and modernism. Whether it's a carefully made multi-course dinner or a fast nibble from a trai... -
How Japanese Cuisine Balances Simplicity and Elegance
Many people like Japanese food not only for its taste but also for the creative manner it strikes simplicity against sophistication. Every meal, from a glass of miso soup to a carefully crafted kaiseki meal, tells a story anchored in cul...