Japan's Top 10 Culinary Destinations: Savor UNESCO-Recognized Washoku
UNESCO has honored Japanese cuisine—known as washoku—as an Intangible Cultural Heritage, placing it alongside French cuisine as one of the world's premier national food traditions. A culinary journey across Japan showcases the brilliance of this recognition, with every region offering unique gastronomic delights. Join us on a tour of Japan's top 10 gourmet destinations to experience the diverse flavors of washoku.
Tokyo
Tsukiji by Jonathan Lin. CC BY 2.0.
For over a century, Tokyo—boasting more Michelin stars than any other city—has led the world in culinary excellence. Sushi, or Edomae-zushi (named after Tokyo's former name, Edo), originated here with its iconic raw fish atop vinegared rice. Sample it at Tsukiji's outer market stalls (www.tsukiji-market.or.jp). Note: The wholesale market relocated to Toyosu in 2018, but the vibrant outer market endures.
Kyoto
Kaiseki-ryōri by Charlotte Marillet. CC BY 2.0.
No trip to Japan's ancient capital is complete without kaiseki-ryōri, a multi-course seasonal banquet that's as visually stunning as it is delicious. Indulge at the 400-year-old Nakamura-rō in Gion. For a vegetarian twist, try shojin-ryōri at Izusen (https://kyoto-izusen.com), overlooking a tranquil garden at Daiji-in temple. The harmonious flavors, textures, and artistic presentation will captivate your senses.
Ōsaka
Takoyaki by hirotomo t. CC BY 2.0.
While not the most refined, takoyaki—octopus-filled batter balls—epitomizes Ōsaka's street food spirit, alongside okonomiyaki, savory pancakes loaded with meat, squid, veggies, sauce, mayo, seaweed, and bonito flakes. Dive into these icons in the bustling Dōtombori district of Japan's food-obsessed second city.
Hakodate
Heavy crab at Asa-ichi by Photocapy. CC BY 2.0.
Hokkaidō, Japan's northern island, shines with ramen variations, jingisukan lamb barbecue, and exceptional seafood like crab and salmon. At Hakodate's Asa-ichi morning market (www.hakodate-asaichi.com), enjoy fresh seafood atop noodles or rice in this atmospheric setting.
Nagoya
Hitsumabushi by hirotomo t. CC BY 2.0.
Grilled eel (unagi) is a washoku highlight, and Nagoya excels with hitsumabushi. At historic Atsuta Hōraiken (www.houraiken.com), savor it three ways: plain over rice, with wasabi, seaweed, and scallions; or in soup.
Matsumoto
Handmade soba noodles by t-mizo. CC BY 2.0.
Nagano prefecture's buckwheat soba noodles are legendary. In castle town Matsumoto, queue at Nomugi for handmade perfection before they sell out by 2pm. Brave palates can try basashi (raw horse meat) at Kura (www.mcci.or.jp/www/kura), in a traditional storehouse replica.
Takayama
Breakfast at Sumiyoshi ryokan by Andrea Schaffer. CC BY 2.0.
This sake-brewing town excels in sansai-ryōri (mountain veggies) and hoba miso (miso-grilled veggies or Hida beef on magnolia leaves). Family-run Suzuya showcases these specialties alongside premium Hida-gyū beef.
Fukuoka
Late-night street snack by Richard West. CC BY 2.0.
Winter's fugu (blowfish) thrills in Kyūshū's Fukuoka, but year-round tonkotsu ramen (Hakata-style pork broth) rules. Slurp at yatai street stalls, especially around Nakasu Island's Tenjin Nishi-dōri and Shōwa-dōri.
Takamatsu
Udon by Takuma Kimura. CC BY 2.0.
Shikoku's Takamatsu is synonymous with chewy Sanuki udon. Dip plain noodles in customizable stock at Waraya, a thatched farmhouse near Shikoku Mura open-air museum.
Naha
Makishi Market, Naha, by Hideyuki Kamon. CC BY 2.0.
Okinawa's longevity links to Ryūkū-ryōri, using every pig part (tibichi trotters, mimi ears) plus seafood. Sample at stalls above Naha's Dai-Ichi Kōsetsu Makishi Ichiba market.
A former Japan resident and author of multiple books on the country, Simon Richmond is a veteran Lonely Planet writer and photographer (@simonrichmond).
Japan blends modern innovation with ancient traditions, and food is a prime example. Dive deeper with Lonely Planet's Japan travel guide.
Searching for accommodations? Explore Lonely Planet's expert picks for hotels and hostels in Japan.
