We can’t get through this list without mentioning Japanese sushi! Eating raw fish might not be everyone’s cup of tea, but if you’ve never tried it before, it’s time to expand your palette! Who knows, you might surprise yourself.
In the past, sushi was a street food that people would eat by hand. Fishmongers sold delicate slices at places like Tsukiji Market. Now it’s a culinary sensation that’s taking the world by storm!
Traditional Japanese sushi is an elegant balance of seafood, soy sauce, wasabi, and vinegared rice. While international shops often specialize in complicated rolls with tons of ingredients, chefs in Japan highlight the natural flavors.
You can enjoy sushi shops anywhere in Japan. If you’re apprehensive about trying this dish, you can sample a few plates at a kaiten (conveyor belt) sushi restaurant. Or, go all out and eat high-quality fare counter-style, where a personal chef will prepare an array of pieces.
Every spring, the iconic Japanese cherry blossoms attract travelers from all over the world during their full bloom. Most tourists dash from tree to tree posing for pictures, but for Japanese people, sakura season is a chance to spend time with friends, family, and co-workers. They celebrate hanami (flower viewing) by having a picnic or barbecue and relaxing under the shade of the petals. Take the time out of your busy itinerary to join in!
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