10 Must Try Street Food Dishes In Japan

From the bustling streets of Tokyo to the vibrant nightlife of Osaka, Japanese street food is a culinary journey worth embarking on. While Japan does not have as extensive a street food culture as other Asian countries like Taiwan, there are plenty of delicious dishes that you should try on your next visit!

Before we dive into our top ten picks, remember this golden rule of street food etiquette in Japan: it's customary to eat on the spot or close by, rather than walking and eating at the same time.

From the savory-sweet dance of Takoyaki to the refreshing swirl of Matcha Soft Serve, these street foods are more than just quick bites - they're a window into the heart of Japan's diverse and exciting food culture. So, without further ado, here are the top 10 street foods you absolutely must try when in Japan! 

1. Takoyaki

Starting our list is Osaka’s most famous street food dish, Takoyaki. These piping hot, ball-shaped snacks are a popular street food across Japan and holds a cherished spot in local food culture, especially at festivals. Made with a wheat flour-based batter filled with diced octopus, pickled ginger, and green onions and topped with a sweet and savory sauce, mayo, and bonito flakes, Takoyaki is a flavor-packed, must-try delicacy. In Tokyo, you can find the best takoyaki in places like Gindaco, which has multiple locations across the city. 

2. Okonomiyaki

The name Okonomiyaki translates to "grilled as you like it," encapsulating the dish's versatility and popularity. Often referred to as the “Japanese Pizza,” Okonomiyaki is a savory pancake made with a batter of flour, nagaimo (a type of yam), water or dashi, eggs, and shredded cabbage and filled with a variety of ingredients such as cabbage, pork, squid, and shrimp. Cooked on a teppan grill and slathered with tangy okonomiyaki sauce, mayonnaise, and a sprinkling of green laver and dried bonito, this is a must-try for any food lover. Monja Street in the Tsukishima district of Tokyo is famous for its okonomiyaki restaurants, making it the perfect place to try this delectable dish. 

3. Yakitori

Yakitori, skewered grilled chicken, is a popular street food item in Tokyo. Seasoned with either a sweet-soy glaze (tare) or just salt (shio), these skewers are a simple yet delicious choice for a quick bite. 

4. Yakisoba

Yakisoba is a staple street food dish consisting of stir-fried wheat noodles mixed with bite-sized pork, vegetables, and flavored with a sweet and slightly salty sauce. Often served with a sprinkle of aonori (dried seaweed powder) and beni shoga (pickled ginger), Yakisoba is a delightful toss-up of flavors and textures that you just can't miss. 

5. Onigiri

Onigiri, or rice balls, are a snack-sized wonder filled with an array of exciting fillings. The triangular-shaped rice balls are often wrapped in nori (seaweed) and can include fillings like umeboshi (pickled plum), salmon, kelp, and many more. These portable, versatile snacks are perfect for a quick bite on-the-go. Mentaiko, or marinated pollock roe, is a popular delicacy in Fukuoka often used as a filling in onigiri. Its spicy, umami flavor makes it a favorite among locals and tourists alike. 

6. Ramen 

No list of Japanese food is complete without mentioning Ramen. This iconic noodle soup comes in various styles and flavors, from the soy-based Shoyu to the miso-infused Miso ramen. Topped with slices of chashu (braised pork), green onions, nori, and a soft-boiled egg, a bowl of ramen is a warm, comforting embrace that soothes the soul. Ramen is more than just a dish; it represents Japan's ingenuity and commitment to perfection, with each element crafted with meticulous care. For a taste of Tokyo's best ramen, visit the Ramen Street in Tokyo Station, where you can explore several highly-regarded ramen shops. 

7. Gyoza 

Gyoza, or Japanese dumplings, are bite-sized parcels of joy. Filled with ground meat and vegetables and wrapped in a thin dough, these dumplings are first pan-fried to a crispy golden brown, then steamed to ensure a juicy filling. Paired with a dipping sauce made of soy sauce, vinegar, and chili oil, gyoza offers a burst of flavors that's hard to resist. 

8. Tempura

Tempura is a dish that masterfully blends simplicity and sophistication. Consisting of seafood and vegetables that have been battered and deep-fried to golden perfection, Tempura is a testament to the delicate and refined nature of Japanese cuisine. Light, crispy, and subtly seasoned, it's a dish that lets the ingredients shine. 

9. Taiyaki

Taiyaki is a sweet treat that's too cute to eat - except that it's also too delicious not to! Shaped like a fish, this dessert is made using a pancake-like batter and is traditionally filled with red bean paste, although newer variations include custard, chocolate, and even cheese. It's the perfect sweet ending to your street food adventure. 

10. Matcha Soft Serve 

Nothing beats the summer heat in Japan like a cone of Matcha Soft Serve. Made from the finely ground powder of specially grown and processed green tea, this soft serve ice cream is a delightful mix of sweet and bitter flavors. It's the perfect refreshing treat to end your food-filled day. 

No matter what region you’re in, Japanese street food scene offers a unique blend of flavors, textures, and culinary creativity, making it a must-try for any food lover visiting the country. Each dish, from the sizzling Takoyaki to the comforting bowl of Ramen, tells a tale of tradition, innovation, and the sheer love for food. Every region in Japan offers a unique culinary experience, and exploring street food is an excellent way to delve into the local culture. So, next time you're in Japan, be sure to check out these tempting treats. Your taste buds will thank you!

Which mouthwatering dish do you want to try the most? Let us know down below!