Japanese cuisine is something to truly savor.
And it’s not all about sushi – there is so much to delight the palette, from the best seafood on the planet, to delectable noodle dishes, to Kobe beef.
Not to mention the delicious national drink – sake.
The beer and whiskey are very good, as well.
The food can be described as minimalist – but never simple.
Sort of like Japan itself.
There is an etiquette to follow, however.
For starters, if you’re in a rush, don’t grab something to eat and walk down the street while you’re eating; it’s considered rude.
Meals are meant to be savored in a sit-down setting.
For a reasonably priced, filling meal for lunch, many Japanese restaurants will have teishoku, which is the lunch special of the day.
It will usually contain a mixture of different vegetables, meat and seafood.
It is very tasty, and usually comes with miso soup and rice.
When you sit down at a restaurant, you will be offered a towel with which to wipe your hands and mouth, and to clean up any spills.
The Japanese people are very neat!
Always clean up after yourself.
Another important piece of etiquette is to not start eating until everyone at your table has received their food.
Convenience stores are all over cities, and are not only good for picking up last-minute items, but you can also get a cheap and healthy meal for the equivalent of USD 5.
Breakfast, lunch and dinner can be had in Japan’s convenience stores when you want something quick and easy.