TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Japanese culinary culture is globally renowned for its rich flavors and captivating presentation. Beyond the well-established fame of sushi, ramen, and sashimi, Japan also has a diverse array of popular street foods that have garnered international affection and can be transformed into delightful on-the-go meals.
These readily available treats are a highlight for tourists visiting the Land of the Rising Sun. From savory to sweet, here are eight famous Japanese street foods you should definitely savor.
8 Must-Savor Japanese Street Foods
1. Onigiri
Onigiri is a handheld Japanese snack made from seasoned rice, typically shaped into balls or triangles, filled with various ingredients, and wrapped in nori seaweed. The name onigiri comes from the Japanese word nigiru, meaning "to grasp," referring to its hand-formed preparation, according to Britannica.
Onigiri has been around for over 2,000 years and gained popularity as a court dish during the Heian era. Its practicality and long shelf life, especially when filled with ingredients like salted plum (umeboshi), made it valuable as military rations during the Kamakura period.
2. Okonomiyaki
Okonomiyaki, translating to "pancake as you like it," is a savory dish made from a wheat flour batter, shredded cabbage, and a variety of optional ingredients such as meat or seafood. Cooked on a teppan (flat griddle), it is typically served with okonomiyaki sauce, Japanese mayonnaise, and bonito flakes. Many restaurants offer the interactive experience of cooking it yourself at tables equipped with a griddle.
3. Dango
Dango are petite rice dumplings that are skewered onto sticks and grilled, subsequently coated with a sweet soy-based glaze. Frequently encountered at festive events, dango represents a traditional and comforting Japanese snack. Popular variations include mitarashi dango, distinguished by its sweet glaze and subtly charred exterior.
4. Takoyaki
Takoyaki are savory ball-shaped snacks made from a batter filled with pieces of octopus, pickled ginger, and green onions, then cooked in a special dimpled mold. Once golden brown, takoyaki are generously drizzled with a savory-sweet sauce, Japanese mayonnaise, and sprinkled with umami-rich bonito flakes and nori seaweed. Originating in Osaka, this dish is a beloved treat, especially among tourists.
5. Senbei
Senbei are Japanese rice crackers that come in baked or fried varieties, frequently seasoned with soy sauce, salt, or sugar. As noted by The Daily Meal, senbei boasts a wide range of flavors and textures depending on the region. They are commonly found in traditional markets and specialty shops.
6. Taiyaki
Taiyaki is a delightful fish-shaped cake typically filled with sweet red bean paste (anko), creamy custard, or rich chocolate. First appearing in the early 20th century, it has become a quintessential Japanese snack. Taiyaki is a common find in traditional markets and at street food stalls.
7. Nikuman
Nikuman are fluffy steamed buns filled with a tender and savory meat mixture. Particularly popular during the winter months, these warming buns are readily available at street food stalls and convenience stores. Introduced to Japan in 1927, nikuman has become a staple in everyday Japanese cuisine.
8. Imagawayaki
Imagawayaki are round, disc-shaped cakes made from a simple flour-based batter and filled with sweet red bean paste (anko), smooth custard, or decadent chocolate. Similar to taiyaki in fillings but distinct in its round, thicker form, imagawayaki first appeared in the Imawaka area of Tokyo during the Edo period and has remained a popular sweet snack in Japan.
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