10 Traditional Japanese Foods to Try (Beyond Sushi)

During a two-week trip across Japan (covering Tokyo, Lake Kawaguchiko, Osaka, and Kyoto), my travel companion and I made it a goal to sample as many local, traditional dishes as possible—including street food, restaurant meals, and even convenience store bites. As someone who can’t stand fish, sushi was off the menu, so we curated this list of 10 must-try Japanese foods that showcase the country’s diverse, budget-friendly, and flavor-packed culinary scene.

1. Okonomiyaki

A top favorite of our trip, okonomiyaki is a customizable Japanese-style pancake made with wheat batter, shredded cabbage, mixed vegetables, and your choice of protein (think pork belly or prawns). Topped with bonito flakes, nori, and mayonnaise, its name translates to “how you like it”—meaning there are no fixed toppings, making every version unique. We enjoyed it repeatedly across regions and never left disappointed.

2. Hoto

Local to Yamanashi Prefecture (home to Mt. Fuji), hoto is a hearty noodle dish with historical roots—legend says it was eaten by warlord Takeda Shingen and his samurai before battles. Served in an iron hot pot, it combines thick hoto noodles, miso broth, and chunks of pumpkin, squash, and mushrooms, creating a filling, vegetarian-friendly meal perfect for cool days.

3. Ramen

A globally beloved staple, ramen consists of wheat noodles in a rich miso or soy broth, topped with sliced pork, nori, and boiled egg. Every Japanese region has its own variation (differing in broth and toppings), and it’s widely available from street stalls to sit-down spots—plus it’s incredibly budget-friendly, making it ideal for travelers on a budget.

4. Donburi

A comforting rice bowl dish with endless topping options, donburi was a trip staple for us. Popular varieties include oyakodon (chicken and egg), katsudon (pork cutlet), and the more adventurous unadon (grilled eel). It’s a satisfying, one-bowl meal that’s easy to find across the country.

5. Tempura

Introduced to Japan by the Portuguese in the 16th century, tempura remains a iconic dish: meat, fish, or vegetables coated in light batter and deep-fried to crispy perfection. It’s a staple in both casual and upscale eateries, offering a crunchy, flavorful bite for all palates.

6. Yakitori

Literally translating to “grilled chicken,” yakitori refers to any grilled meat skewer (though chicken is most common, with cuts ranging from breast to gizzards and other organs). Served as an appetizer in bars, it pairs perfectly with cold Japanese beer or sake after a day of sightseeing.

7. Tonkatsu

Crispy deep-fried pork cutlets, tonkatsu is versatile: it’s served over rice (as katsudon), with shredded cabbage, or alongside curry rice. It’s ubiquitous across Japan, including in 7-Eleven for a quick, cheap on-the-go lunch.

8. Gyoza

These savory dumplings—stuffed with ground meat and diced veggies—are either steamed or pan-fried, offering a crispy or soft texture depending on preparation. Served as a side or light main, they made for the perfect casual lunch or dinner during our explorations.

9. Udon

Thick wheat noodles that can be enjoyed hot or cold, udon is topped with everything from tempura to tofu, ensuring there’s a version for every taste. It became one of our go-to dishes during the trip and remains a favorite to this day.

10. Dango

Japan isn’t known for overly sweet desserts, but dango is a delightful exception—ideal paired with hot green tea. These chewy rice flour dumplings are skewered and coated in sweet sauce or red bean paste, and they’re cheap and widely available at street stalls, sweet shops, and convenience stores.

Japan’s food scene is one of the reasons it’s among our favorite travel destinations: dishes are varied, delicious, fairly priced, and accessible whether you love seafood or not. This list only scratches the surface of the country’s culinary treasures—there are countless more traditional bites to discover!