If you are a fan of Japanese cuisine, you may have heard of furikake, an essential part of daily meals in Japan. It is a familiar seasoning in Japan, and its history is ancient, representing a unique aspect of Japanese food culture. However, do you all know the origin of “furikake”? Today, we would like to talk about the culture and history of furikake. What is Furikake? Furikake is a vital seasoning in Japanese cuisine that people use to add flavor and enhance the enjoyment of their meals. It consists of a mixture of various ingredients, including seasonings, colorants, and preservatives. Se ..read more

Imagine a vibrant green powder whisked into a steaming cup of tea. That’s Japanese matcha tea, a finely ground green tea with a rich history and deep roots in Japanese culture. Matcha goes beyond just a beverage; it’s a sensory experience steeped in tradition, offering a delightful taste and a glimpse into the heart of Japan. What is Japanese matcha tea? Unlike regular green tea where you steep the leaves in hot water and discard them, matcha is whisked with hot water to create a frothy tea. Matcha is traditionally used in Japanese tea ceremonies. Japanese Matcha tea has a distinct umami or ..read more

Miso, a popular ingredient in Japanese cooking, comes in many different types, each with its own unique flavors and characteristics. Today, we’re going to learn about one specific type called Hatchō Miso. It has a special story and way of making it that sets it apart from other miso varieties. In this article, we will delve into the fascinating history of Hatchō Miso, explore its traditional production methods, and uncover the secrets behind its distinctive flavor. What is Haccho Miso? Hatchō Miso is a type of traditional Japanese miso that originates from the Hatchō region of Okazaki, Aichi ..read more

Suntory Whiskey is an iconic name synonymous with the rich tradition and innovation of Japanese whiskey-making. Renowned for its diverse range of flavors and expressions, it captivates enthusiasts with its unparalleled taste and heritage. Now, let’s learn more about this type of whiskey. What is Suntory whiskey? Suntory is a big name in Japan when it comes to whiskey. They are considered pioneers in Japanese whisky production. They became a well-known Japanese beverage company that produces a variety of alcoholic beverages, including whiskey. Suntory Whiskey is renowned f ..read more

Today, we would like to introduce you to a traditional Japanese fermented food called “Shio Koji.” Shio Koji has been a part of Japanese cuisine for a long time, and it is known for its ability to enhance flavors and bring out the delicious taste in dishes. Not only does it make food taste better, but it also has various health benefits. In our article, we will show you how to make Shio Koji at home and share some recommended recipes that you can try using this amazing ingredient. Get ready to add a new dimension of flavor to your meals with the power of Shio Koji. What is Shio Koji? Shio Koj ..read more

Do you know about “Tebichi”, a traditional and famous dish in Okinawa? Although you may have heard of it, many people may not have actually tasted it. In this article, we will mainly introduce the origin of its name and flavors. You won’t want to miss the Tebichi recipe that allows you to savor its soft and tender texture! What is Tebichi Soba? Tebichi Soba is a delightful dish that represents the unique flavors of Okinawa. It is a variation of traditional Okinawan soba, featuring the star ingredient called “tebichi” – simmered pork trotters. Tebichi refers to both the pork trotters themselve ..read more

From its origins in the lush landscapes of Miyazaki to its journey onto dining tables globally, Miyazaki beef embodies the essence of Japanese culinary excellence. In this article, we will explore the fascinating story behind Miyazaki beef, its production process, its distinct characteristics, and why it has earned a place as one of Japan’s most coveted gourmet experiences. What is Miyazaki beef? Miyazaki Beef is a premium type of Japanese black cattle raised and fattened exclusively in Miyazaki Prefecture, known for its exceptional meat quality graded 4th or 5th by the Japan Meat Grading As ..read more

If you are living in Japan, have you ever noticed that everytime when you go shopping in convenience stores or supermarket, you might come across this animation character called Garigari kun? So who is this character and why it is so popular in Japan? Today, we are going to find out about this cute Japanese animation character! What is “Garigari kun”? Garigari-kun (ガリガリ君, literally “Mr. Crunchy“) is the name of an ice pop brand and its mastcot, manufactured and sold by Akagi Nyugyo based in Fukaya. This is Akagi Nyugyo’s signature product, and as its name suggests, it has the crunchy tex ..read more

Discover the delightful world of eki ben, a beloved part of train travel culture in Japan. Ekiben, short for “eki bento” (station bento), are boxed meals sold at train stations, showcasing regional specialties and flavors from across the country. These convenient and tasty meals have a rich history dating back to the late 19th century and have evolved into culinary treasures that reflect local ingredients, traditions, and craftsmanship. What is Eki ben? Eki ben (駅弁) refers to a traditional Japanese boxed meal or bento that is sold at train stations (eki 駅 means station and ben 弁 is short for ..read more

Japanese sake has many different tastes, like fruity, light, and sweet. It can be confusing for beginners who want to try it because there are so many types and they don’t know which one to choose or where to buy it. Let’s start by learning about the basics of Japanese sake, especially “Daiginjo”. Knowing the differences between Daiginjo sake and other types can make enjoying Japanese sake more fun. Also, we’ll give you tips on picking Daiginjo sake, enjoying it, and suggest some good ones for you to try. You can use this information to help you when you’re picking sake. What is Daiginjo? Dai ..read more