Japanese Food & Drink

Ramen, sushi, sake, shochu, craft beer, izakaya culture, otsumami — the complete guide to Japan's extraordinary food world.

Japan has more Michelin-starred restaurants than any country on earth. But the best food often costs ¥800 at a counter seat with no English menu. These guides cover everything from what to eat and where to find it, to the drinking culture that brings Japanese people together every evening.
01
How to Drink in Japan: Izakaya, Bars, Tachinomi & Drinking Etiquette
The complete guide to Japanese drinking culture — where to go, how to order, what the rules are, and how to survive a nomikai.
02
Japanese Beer: From Asahi Super Dry to Craft Revolution
The big four, the craft explosion, beer gardens, and why Japanese beer culture is more interesting than you think.
03
Otsumami: The Japanese Art of Drinking Snacks
Edamame, yakitori, sashimi, and 30 more — the essential bar snacks that make Japanese drinking culture complete.
04
Japanese Sake: A Beginner's Guide to Drinking, Ordering & Brewery Visits
Junmai, ginjo, daiginjo — what the labels mean, how to order, and the best sake regions to visit.
05
Shochu: Japan's Other Spirit That Nobody Talks About
Not sake, not vodka — shochu is Japan's most consumed spirit. Sweet potato, barley, rice — and how to drink each one.
06
What to Eat in Japan: A First-Timer's Food Guide
Beyond sushi and ramen — 20 essential Japanese foods, where to find them, how to order, and what to pay.
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