1.) TOKYO

Tokyo is a city that’s as much a feast for the senses as it is for the stomach. Tokyo’s food scene is a dizzying mix of high-end sushi bars, hidden ramen joints, and lively street food markets, making it the perfect place for a foodie adventure.

Tsukiji Market

Tokyo food hop at Tsukiji Outer Market, a busy hub of seafood vendors, tiny eateries, and specialty shops. While the inner wholesale market has moved to Toyousu, the outer market still thrives, selling everything from fresh sashimi to tamagoyaki (Japanese rolled omelet) skewers. Grab a quick snack — such as some grilled scallops or a tuna rice bowl — and watch the world go by as you taste the flavors of the sea. If you are interested in the Toyosu Fish Market, we recommend an early morning visit where you can experience the famous Tuna Auction at one of the largest fish markets in the world.

Tsukemen

Tokyo’s Ikebukuro district is a mecca for ramen enthusiasts. Whether you prefer rich tonkotsu (pork bone) broth, tangy shoyu (soy sauce), or spicy miso ramen, Ikebukuro has it all. Kick off your ramen tasting with Mutekiya, a legendary spot famous for its melt-in-your-mouth chashu (pork slices). Foodies craving something unique will find that Ikebukuro is the birthplace of Tsukemen (dipping ramen)! There are a variety of local restaurants such as Basso Drillman that are known for their tsukemen. Pro tip: always slurp your noodles, it’s a compliment to the chef!

Ningyo Yaki

Asakusa radiates classic charm with its historic temples, traditional streets, and busy markets. Nakamise street is one of the oldest shopping streets in Japan, lined with stalls that carry everything from souvenirs to traditional snacks. Try ningyo-yaki, snack sponge-like cakes filled with sweet red bean paste, typically shaped like lanterns or pagodas. A classic is senbei, crunchy rice crackers glazed with soy sauce and sometimes wrapped in seaweed. Another fun classic to try are melonpan, a fluffy, sweet bun with a crispy outer layer. Asakusa’s Yokocho streets are a step back in time; these narrow alleyways are filled with izakayas (Japanese pubs) and local eateries where you can enjoy hearty food and cold drinks. You can also find snacks and small bites in the area. Try Imopipi for sweet and savory fried Yakimo (yams). Even those who are vegan or have dairy allergies can find classics, like vegan Fruit Sandos at Hatoya’s Vegan Fruit Sandwiches.

Kappabashi Kitchen Town

Known as “Kitchen Town,” Kappabashi is heaven for chefs and home cooks alike. This area is popular for buying Japanese knives, praised for their precision and long lasting quality. Look for brands like Masamoto or Sakai Takayuki. Kappabashi is also home to tableware, utensils, and a variety of cooking tools from cast iron pans to matcha whisks. A fun stop is at the food replica shop. Ever wonder about those ultra-realistic fake food displays? At food replica shops, you can buy replicas of sushi, tempura, and more as quirky keepsakes or gifts for others.

Fluffy Soufflé Pancakces

At the trendy district of Shibuya, explore the world of yokocho — narrow alleyways packed with tiny, but booming eateries. For lunch, try yakitori (grilled chicken skewers) at one of the many hole-in-the-wall joints, such as in Niku Yokocho. For those feeling playful, order the nankotsu (chicken cartilage) or hatsu (chicken heart). Aside from tasty food, these places are a social experience, where foodies can explore with locals and enjoy the lively, convivial atmosphere. For those with a sweet tooth, food hop to Shibuya Center-Gai for crepe stands offering sweet and savory options. The Nutella and banana crepe is a classic! Grab a fish-shaped pastry filled with sweet red bean paste, custard, or even matcha cream from a local stall. Also, look out for shops selling fluffy soufflé pancakes. These airy treats are as photogenic as they are delicious. If you’re up for karaoke, head to one of Shibuya’s many karaoke bars for a night of singing and snacking on finger foods.

Playful Harajuku Crepes

Harajuku is quite famous for its fashion, but the food scene is equally hip. Whether you want to dive into a massive rainbow-colored treat or sip coffee in a super cute cafe, this is the place to indulge your sweet tooth. In Takeshita street, try crepes at Marion Crepes or Angels Heart (two of the oldest and most popular stands on Takeshita Street), Rainbow Cotton Candy, and Taiyaki. A classic favorite: strawberry tanghulu with its fresh fruit and slightly warm and crunchy sweet exterior from the shop Strawberry Fetish. You can find cafes, such as the neon rainbow dreamlike Kawaii Monster Cafe and Reissue Cafe with its fluffy 3d latte art. The adorable Pompompurin can can also be found in Harajuku, dedicated to the beloved Sanrio Character and serving fun character-themed dishes and desserts. Takeshita Street can get crowded, so feel free to explore the back alleys. Not only is it quieter, but you can find cozy pubs as well as some quirky restaurants, such as Pico De Gallo, Japan’s take on Mexican cuisine.

Taiyaki

Togoshi Ginza is full of mouthwatering eats and charming local vibes. It is known as Tokyo’s longest shopping street (shotengai) with more than 400 shops, restaurants, and food stalls. Some suggestions to look out for are crispy Korokke (croquettes), taiyaki, yakitori skewers, fresh onigiri, katsu sandwiches, karaage, and traditional or modern sweets from daifuku to crepes. Togoshi Ginza has several specialty shops offering local sake and craft beers. Many stores allow you to taste-test before you buy, making for a fun way to sample regional beverages. This street also adapts to the seasons: in the summer, you may find icy kakigori (shaved ice) with fruity syrups. In the winter, you may find steaming bowls of oden (a comforting stew of fish cakes, daikon, and eggs) to keep you warm.

sushi

No food hopping visit to Tokyo is complete without experiencing sushi, and while high-end sushi restaurants can be more costly, there are plenty of affordable options. Consider stopping by a conveyor belt sushi restaurant (known as kaiten-zushi), such as Uobei Sushi in Shibuya, where plates of sushi glide past on a conveyor belt, and you can pick whatever catches your eye. It’s a fun, interactive dining experience that kids and adults alike will enjoy. Some popular chains include Kura and Sushiro. Another fantastic experience is learning how to make your own sushi with the help of a Sushi chef. Enjoy creating your own food and eat it afterwards!

Enjoy a drink in Tokyo

Aside from the numerous izakaya (pubs) that can be found throughout Tokyo, alcohol lovers should also check out breweries such as Sawanoi Ozawa Sake Brewery and Ishikawa Brewery. At breweries, you can partake in sake tasting, factory tours, and dining experiences in which Japanese dishes are perfectly paired with sake.

2.) KYOTO

A food tour of Japan would not be complete without a visit to Kyoto, the heart of traditional Japanese cuisine.

A traditional Kaiseki meal is a must-try for food hopping in Kyoto

Kyoto is home to kaiseki, a multi-course meal that is as much about art as it is about food. Each dish in a kaiseki meal is carefully prepared using seasonal ingredients, and the presentation reflects the season and the chef’s culinary philosophy. If a full kaiseki meal sounds a bit daunting, don’t worry—Kyoto offers plenty of other culinary delights. Start your day with a classic Japanese breakfast at a local inn, where you can enjoy dishes like grilled fish, miso soup, rice, and tsukemono (pickled vegetables).

Yatsuhashi

We recommend Nishiki Market for food hopping, also known as “Kyoto’s Kitchen,” where you can sample a wide range of local delicacies. From yuba (tofu skin) and saba sushi (mackerel sushi) to soy milk donuts and warabimochi (a jelly-like dessert made from bracken starch), Nishiki Market offers something for everyone. Don’t forget to try yatsuhashi, a traditional Kyoto sweet made from glutinous rice flour, sugar, and cinnamon, which comes in both baked and raw varieties.

Kyoto is known for its wagashi, traditional Japanese sweets that are often enjoyed during tea ceremonies. These sweets are not only delicious but also beautifully crafted, often reflecting the changing seasons in their designs. Stop by a local wagashi shop to try delicacies like nama-yatsuhashi (soft mochi filled with red bean paste). For a truly unique dining experience, book a yudofu (tofu hot pot) meal at one of Kyoto’s many temples. This simple dish, featuring tofu simmered in a light broth and served with dipping sauces, is a perfect example of the elegance and simplicity that defines Kyoto cuisine.

Charming eateries in Gion District and Potocho Alley in Kyoto

Kyoto’s Gion district and Pontocho Alley are where traditional Japanese elegance meets culinary craftsmanship. These atmospheric streets are lined with lantern-lit restaurants offering kaiseki (multi-course meals), sushi, and other refined dishes. For an authentic experience, try yudofu, a delicate tofu hot pot served with tangy dipping sauces. In Gion, you might even spot a geisha slipping into one of the exclusive tea houses.

Pontocho Alley is a foodie’s dream come true—narrow, picturesque, and packed with restaurants serving everything from fresh sashimi to Kyoto-style ramen. As night falls, enjoy dinner by the Kamogawa River, where you can soak in the serene ambiance while savoring the city’s best bites.

You can also experience classic Kyoto cuisine or a beautiful traditional green tea ceremony with a Maiko (apprentice Geisha) or Geisha.

3.) KOBE

When it comes to premium Japanese cuisine, few names are as iconic as Kobe beef. This world-famous wagyu is known for its incredible marbling, tender texture, and buttery flavor that melts in your mouth. While all Kobe beef is Wagyu, not all Wagyu is Kobe beef. Wagyu refers to Japanese cattle breeds known for their high-fat marbling. Kobe beef, as a specific type of Wagyu, is considered the gold standard due to its strict certification process and exceptional quality. If you’re food hopping in Kobe City, it’s worth trying both Wagyu and Kobe beef to appreciate their subtle differences.

Try worldwide sought-out beef in Kobe

There are many ways to enjoy Kobe Beef in Kobe City:

Teppanyaki (iron griddle cooking) is one of the most popular ways to experience Kobe beef. Skilled chefs prepare the beef right in front of you, searing it to perfection while maintaining its delicate texture. Mouriya is a historic restaurant offering premium cuts cooked to perfection. Meanwhile, Kobe Steakland is an affordable teppanyaki option without compromising quality.

Kobe beef in a hot pot setting is another must-try for foodies. Thinly sliced beef is simmered in a sweet soy-based broth for sukiyaki, or gently swished through boiling water in shabu-shabu. Both methods highlight the beef’s tenderness and flavor. Somewhere like Ishida Kitanozaka presents a fine dining experience featuring Kobe beef sukiyaki.

For a casual yet indulgent treat, try a Kobe beef burger. The juicy patty made from this premium beef redefines the burger experience. Wakkoqu is known for its teppanyaki and gourmet burgers.

So many ways to eat Kobe beef, such as yakiniku style

Yakiniku (Japanese BBQ), where you grill thin slices of Kobe beef over a charcoal flame for a smoky, provides a flavorful experience. Kobe Plaisir is a high-end yakiniku spot with a focus on locally sourced ingredients.

For something unique, try Kobe beef sushi or sashimi. Served raw or lightly seared, this preparation showcases the beef’s natural flavor in a delicate, bite-sized form. Kobe Beef Kaiseki 511 is a luxurious spot for sushi and multi-course Kobe beef meals.

After dinner, explore Kobe’s thriving pub scene. From craft beer bars to laid-back izakayas, Kobe’s nightlife offers a relaxed vibe perfect for unwinding after a food-filled day. Try a local brew like Rokko Beer or a classic highball as you chat with friendly locals.

4.) OSAKA

Osaka, affectionately known as “Japan’s kitchen” is famous for its down-to-earth, hearty cuisine, making it the perfect place to continue your food-hopping adventure.

Takoyaki, a fun treat!

Start with the city’s signature dish, takoyaki, round dough balls filled with diced octopus, tempura scraps, green onions, and pickled ginger, all cooked to golden perfection in special molds. Topped with tangy takoyaki sauce, mayo, and bonito flakes, these piping hot snacks are irresistible. Acchichi Honpo in Dotonbori and Takoyaki Wanaka are popular recommendations for Takoyaki.

Okonomiyaki

Another must-try dish in Osaka is okonomiyaki—yes, it is also a staple in Hiroshima, but Osaka-style okonomiyaki is a bit different from Hiroshima’s version. In Osaka, the ingredients are mixed into the batter before cooking, creating a more pancake-like consistency. The eatery, Chibo, is famous for its classic and creative Okonomiyaki options. Ajinoya is a local favorite with a lively, casual vibe.

The iconic Dotonbori!

In general, Osaka would not be complete without a walk through Dotonbori, the city’s fun food district. With its neon lights, massive food displays, and energetic atmosphere, Dotonbori is also a feast for the senses and the perfect place to enjoy the food of Japan. Shinsaibashi-suji, a 600-meter-long shopping arcade, is the main artery of Shinsaibashi. Lined with boutiques, department stores, and quirky shops, it’s the perfect place to work up an appetite. And good news: Shinsaibashi has no shortage of delectable options to fuel your shopping spree! Some hidden Gems around the area are: Hozenji Yokocho, a short walk from Shinsaibashi. Featuring a narrow, atmospheric alley offering a taste of old Osaka. Lined with cozy izakayas and traditional eateries, it’s an excellent place to unwind with dishes like grilled fish, sashimi, and sake. Known as Osaka’s hub of youth culture, America Mura (American Village) is just around the corner. Here, you’ll find quirky cafes, food trucks, and fusion eats like matcha-flavored crepes and Japanese-style burgers.

Kuromon Market

The Kuromon Market is famous for its fresh, high quality seafood, much of which is prepared right in front of you. Some must-try items are uni (sea urchin), grilled scallops, snow crab legs, and tuna sashimi. Here you can also find Wagyu skewers for a quick bite or Wagyu steak boxes, complete with rice and sides. At this market, you snack on street food favorites, from Takoyaki, Kushikatsu, to fluffy egg sandwiches. Some fun dessert finds are melon pan with ice cream, fruit skewers, and matcha soft serve. Here, you can enjoy the vibrant displays of fresh fruits, vegetables, and specialty ingredients. Some exotic fruits, such as yuzu and Japanese white peaches can be found here and are worth trying. Some high grade condiments such as soy sauce and miso make for wonderful take home souvenirs. Kuromon is also great for kitchenware and utensils, or packaged snacks like flavored rice crackers or Osaka’s famous Manchu sweets.

Cup Noodles Museum is a fun experience where visitors get a deep dive into the history of instant noodles, starting with the invention of the very first packet in 1953. Visitors have the opportunity to customize their very own cup of noodles to take home as a souvenir. Design the cup with markers and illustrations, pick your favorite soup base (like soy, miso, or curry) and toppings (shrimp, corn, green onions, etc.), and see your personalized cup sealed and packaged, ready to take home. The Cup Noodles Museum features theatrical exhibits and interactive displays as well as a ramen tasting at the Noodles Bazaar, a food court inspired by street markets around the world.

Kushikatsu

Heading south, find Osaka’s Shinsekai district, a quirky retro wonderland that feels like stepping into a 1960s postcard. Shinsekai’s atmosphere is pure fun — think neon signs, lively locals, and plenty of photo ops with the iconic Tsutenkaku Tower in the background. Shinsekai is all about kushikatsu, deep-fried skewers of meat, fish, and vegetables. The golden rule? No double-dipping in the sauce! Tip: pair your kushikatsu feast with Osaka’s favorite drink: an ice-cold highball. Durama in Shinsekai is a legendary spot known for its crispy, perfectly fired kushikatsu.

Hozenji Tokocho

For those interested in Osaka’s nightlife and izakayas, the Namba area has backstreets that are packed with cozy izakayas and late-night ramen shops. Hozenji Tokocho is a narrow alley lit by lanterns and brimming with intimate dining spots. Osaka’s craft beer scene is thriving, and can be experienced by visiting places such as Minoh Beer Warehouse and Craft Beerworks Kamikaze.

5.) HIROSHIMA

Hiroshima is a city known for its tragic history and its resilient spirit, but is also home to one of Japan’s most beloved comfort foods: okonomiyaki. Often described as a savory pancake, okonomiyaki is made with a batter of flour, eggs, cabbage, and a variety of other ingredients like pork, seafood, and cheese, all cooked on a griddle. What makes Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki unique is the addition of noodles, typically soba or udon, which are layered in the middle, creating a hearty and satisfying dish.

Okonomimura

Visit Okonomimura, a multi-floor building in downtown Hiroshima dedicated entirely to okonomiyaki, where you can choose from dozens of vendors, each with their own spin on this classic dish. Watching the chefs expertly flip and assemble the layers on the griddle is almost as enjoyable as eating the finished product. Hassei is a smaller, family run spot known for its flavorful Okonomiyaki.

Hiroshima Oysters

While in Hiroshima, foodies should also try kaki (oysters), another local specialty. Hiroshima is one of Japan’s top oyster-producing regions, and you can enjoy them grilled, fried, or served raw with a squeeze of lemon. Kakiya in Miyajima Island specializes in oyster dishes, from creamy soups to char-grilled perfection.

The nearby Seto Inland Sea is famous for its lemons, and Hiroshima has embraced this citrusy goodness. Look out for lemon-flavored sweets, drinks, and even savory dishes. Lemon-based desserts like lemon cakes or lemon sorbet are perfect for summer days, while lemon shochu (a type of distilled spirit) makes for a refreshing evening drink.

For a quick snack, try oyaki (savory grilled buns filled with meat or vegetables) or koi dango (skewered rice cakes in a sweet soy glaze). Hiroshima’s street food culture is vibrant and affordable, so don’t hesitate to try something new as you explore the city’s markets and festival stalls.

Hiroshima is one of Japan’s top sake-producing regions, thanks to its high-quality water and rice. Breweries here produce a smoother, slightly sweet sake that pairs beautifully with the city’s seafood. Take a tour of Saijo, Hiroshima’s sake district, and enjoy tastings at renowned breweries like Kamotsuru or Hakubotan.

6.) HAKONE

Hakone is known for its nature, steaming hot springs (onsen) and breathtaking views of Mount Fuji. Hakone is not far from Tokyo, so we feel this is perfect for visitors with limited travel time that want to experience eating and relaxing in a charming onsen town.

Hakone, a convenient location to relax and eat

Hakone’s yuba, or tofu skin, is a local delicacy that epitomizes simplicity and elegance. Often served in hot soups or as a sashimi-like appetizer, it’s silky, slightly nutty, and melts in your mouth. You’ll find some of the best yuba dishes at local ryokan (traditional inns) or small, family-run restaurants where it’s paired with freshly grated wasabi and soy sauce. Pro tip: Try yuba in a hot pot or even fried for a crunchy twist!

Hakone Soba

In Hakone, soba isn’t just food; it’s an art form. Made with freshly milled buckwheat and pure mountain spring water, these noodles have a unique texture and flavor. Whether you prefer them cold with dipping sauce or hot in a savory broth, soba is a must-eat experience while food hopping in Japan. Many restaurants along the Hakone Tozan Railway serve fresh soba, often accompanied by tempura or wild mountain vegetables.

Hakone Eggs, a fun way to partake in tradition

What’s a trip to Hakone without tasting its famous onsen tamago? Slow-cooked in the mineral-rich hot spring waters, these eggs have a creamy texture that’s out of this world. The yolk is soft and golden, and the whites have a custard-like consistency. You can enjoy onsen tamago straight out of the shell, or use it as a topping for rice bowls. You’ll find these eggs sold at hot spring spots like Owakudani Valley.

Speaking of eggs, Hakone’s kuro-tamago is both a snack and also a cultural experience. These eggs, cooked in sulfuric hot springs, turn jet black due to the minerals in the water. Legend has it that eating one adds seven years to your life! The best place to enjoy kuro-tamago is at Owakudani itself, where the eggs are freshest and the views are stunning.

Hakone Kaiseki Meal

For those looking to indulge, a kaiseki meal in Hakone is a culinary journey like no other. These multi-course meals feature seasonal ingredients and impeccable presentation. Expect dishes like sashimi, grilled fish, pickled vegetables, and delicate sweets, all served with meticulous attention to detail. Ryokans usually offer unforgettable kaiseki dining experiences.

Hakone’s tea houses offer the perfect mid-adventure pit stop. Pair a frothy cup of matcha with wagashi, traditional Japanese sweets made from red bean paste, mochi, and seasonal fruits. The bitterness of the tea beautifully balances the sweetness of these treats. Insider tip: Many tea houses around Lake Ashi have picturesque views, making your snack time feel extra special. Before leaving Hakone, stock up on its iconic sweet treats. The yosegi zaiku monaka, a wafer sandwich filled with red bean paste, pays homage to the region’s intricate woodcraft designs. Another popular pick is hot spring manju, soft steamed buns filled with sweet bean paste, perfect for gifting—or devouring on the spot.

Food is more than just sustenance; it is a window into the culture, history, and soul of a place. Japan’s diverse and delicious food scene offers travelers the chance to explore the country through its flavors, from the busy streets of Tokyo to the calming temples of Kyoto to the culinary delicacies of Osaka and Hiroshima. Perfect for food hopping, Japanese cuisine satisfies both the seasoned foodie and those simply looking for a good meal.

Want to read more about eating and drinking in Japan? We have many other carefully curated articles written for you HERE.

Interested in a food-focused tour similar to this list? Check out our expertly crafted, fully escorted Japan food tour below, complete with an expert guide, reliable transportation, and hand selected accommodations.