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.
-
Article
The Balanced Plate: Understanding the Japanese Diet and Magowayashii Philosophy
In Washoku, the Japanese diet has long been popular for its ability to provide both nourishment and balance. Rooted in centuries-old traditions and influenced by cultural and culinary principles, the Japanese approach to food offers a un... -
Yoshoku
A Dive into Japanese Curry: Flavors, Variations, and Comfort
Curry is one of the most prevalent foods in many Asian cultures, and a dish that has reached fame and renown worldwide, but typically when foreigners think of curry, the first countries that come to mind are India, Th... -
Japanese Wagyu
From Supreme to Sublime: Wagyu Ranking Echelons
Wagyu beef, renowned for its exceptional marbling and tenderness, holds a special place in Japanese cuisine and culture. In Japan, Wagyu ranking is graded using a system that evaluates the quality of its marbling and overall characterist... -
Article
Beyond the Grill: Japan’s Top Hibachi Restaurants 2024
People love dining out at hibachi restaurants because it is not just about the food. The talented chefs who work at these eateries put on exciting, entertaining shows that turn the meals into interactive, memorable experiences.... -
Article
Spring on a Plate: The Seasonal Tastes of Japan
Japanese cuisines value seasonality, ensuring dishes are made with ingredients at their peak freshness and flavor, reflecting a deep respect for nature and its changing rhythms. This connection with nature is integral to Japanese culture... -
Article
The Five Great Rice Meals of Japan
INTRODUCTION In 1939, The Imperial Household Agency selected a representative of local dishes nationwide. It was the five major rice dishes called "The Five Great Rice Meals of Japan". These includes Fukagawa meshi (Tokyo, Fukagawa), Chu... -
Japanese Wagyu
Niku Tofu (肉豆腐)
Have you ever heard of Niku Tofu ( simmered beef and tofu )? This popular Japanese dish combines the delicate flavors of tofu and meat in a savory broth that will leave you wanting more. It’s a comforting and satisfying meal that’s enjoy... -
Japanese Sushi
Sake Zushi (酒ずし)
Have you ever had sushi? Do you like sushi? There are many kinds of sushi in Japan. There is the famous Edomae Sushi and the lesser known Sake Zushi, which we will introduce here. Why don't you try different kinds of sushi? In this arti... -
Kaiseki & Traditional Cuisine
Nishiki Tamago (錦卵)
Have you ever heard of Osechi Ryori? This is the special food for Japanese on New Year. Osechi consists of many colorful dishes packed together in a box "jubako". Each ingredient and dish of osechi is full of wishes for a bountiful harve... -
Fukuoka
Kuri Manju (栗饅頭)
Kurimanju (栗まんじゅう), also written as kuri manju or kuri-manju, is a traditional Japanese wagashi (sweet) made with a soft, baked dough filled with sweet bean paste and chestnut. It is one of Japan's most popular souvenir sweets, esp...
