By Marie-Antoinette Issa.
Whether you’re strolling through the bustling streets of Tokyo or exploring the quieter alleys of Kyoto there’s something special about the scents, sounds and (of course) tastes of Japanese street food.
With a deep appreciation for the fast-food cuisine and culture of the Land of the Rising Sun, Sean Kim - Kitchen Supervisor at popular Sydney Japanese restaurant Gyuniku Buffet - shares his thoughts on what makes this fare so fantastic.
According to Sean, the precision, cleanliness and cultural significance behind each dish sets Japanese street food apart from similar cuisine around the world.
"Japanese street food is unique because it’s not just fast food, but a reflection of craftsmanship and regional characteristics. The cooking methods are precise and there is an emphasis on cleanliness and presentation. It is also closely tied to festival (matsuri) culture, adding a cultural layer to the street food experience.”
It’s not just about grabbing a quick bite; it’s about savouring the craftsmanship in every dish. Street food in Japan is tied to community events, where people come together to celebrate local tastes and traditional cooking methods.
Japanese street food is also defined by its rich and complex profiles, especially the savoury umami.
"Umami-rich flavours define Japanese street food, utilising ingredients like soy sauce, miso and katsuobushi to create depth and savouriness,” Sean shares. These ingredients work together to create a taste that feels both comforting and deeply satisfying - something you can only experience in Japan.
For anyone visiting Japan for the first time, Sean has a list of essential street food dishes you absolutely cannot miss:
"For first-time visitors to Japan, there are several must-try street food dishes,” he says. "Takoyaki, Osaka’s beloved octopus balls, are crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside, often topped with bonito flakes.
"Okonomiyaki, a savoury pancake filled with cabbage and various toppings, is another Osaka specialty [also popular in Hiroshima]. Yakitori, grilled chicken skewers, offer a simple yet delicious snack.
"Ramen varies by region, making it a must-try with unique styles and broths like tonkotsu (pork), shoyu (soy) and miso. Ikayaki, grilled squid, is often enjoyed at festivals, while taiyaki, a fish-shaped pastry filled with red bean paste, is a sweet treat loved by many.”
While dishes like takoyaki and yakitori are popular worldwide, Japan also has plenty of underrated street food dishes waiting to be discovered.
"Beyond the well-known dishes, there are lesser-known gems worth discovering,” says Sean. "Kushikatsu, deep-fried skewers from Osaka, provide a satisfying crunch. Ikameshi, a specialty from Hokkaido, features squid stuffed with rice, offering a unique texture and flavour. Miso katsu, a Nagoya specialty, presents a rich twist on the traditional pork cutlet.
"For dessert, shirokuro soft cream, a blend of black and white sesame ice cream, is an underrated delight.”
For Sean, one of the most exciting things about Japanese street food is how it changes depending on where you are in the country. Each region has its own specialties based on local ingredients and traditions.
"Regional variations in Japanese street food highlight local ingredients and traditions,” Sean explains. "Osaka is known for its rich, comforting foods like takoyaki and okonomiyaki, while Fukuoka specialises in tonkotsu ramen, a hearty pork-based noodle soup.
"Tokyo’s street food leans towards delicate, seafood-focused flavours, while Hokkaido takes pride in its fresh seafood offerings, from grilled scallops to buttery corn.”
While you are unlikely to be disappointed with any of your kerbside snacks, if you're in search of Japan’s best street food, Sean recommends a few must-visit destinations.
"For those looking to explore vibrant street food scenes, Nakasu in Fukuoka is highly recommended. The area is lined with yatai (food stalls) where both locals and tourists can enjoy iconic dishes like tonkotsu ramen and ikayaki. Osaka’s Dotonbori and Tokyo’s Ameyoko Market are also lively food hubs, showcasing a variety of traditional street foods in bustling settings.”
In addition to the year-round classics, Japan offers seasonal street food that is worth seeking out.
"Seasonal specialties in Japan are worth seeking out. In Spring, sakura mochi, a cherry blossom-flavoured rice cake with red bean paste, is a delightful seasonal treat. Summer brings refreshing options like kakigori, a finely shaved ice dessert topped with syrup or condensed milk and ikayaki, grilled squid is served at Summer festivals.
"Autumn is the time for chestnut-based desserts and seasonal confections like sakemaki, a sake-flavoured sweet. Winter specialties include yuzu taiyaki, a citrus-infused twist on the classic taiyaki and ikanama, a fresh squid dish enjoyed during colder months.”
If you're ready to dig into Japan’s street food, be sure to follow the local customs.
"When indulging in Japanese street food, it’s important to be mindful of local customs,” Sean advises. "Eating while walking is generally frowned upon, so it’s best to find a designated area to enjoy your food. Being considerate of others and properly disposing of waste are also essential aspects of street food etiquette in Japan.”
Finally, when asked to choose only one Japanese street food to eat for the rest of his life, Sean nominates Kitakata ramen.
"Known for its clear, soy-based broth and chewy, wide noodles, it offers a clean yet deeply satisfying umami flavour. The addition of thick pork slices and bamboo shoots enhances its texture and taste, making it a dish that remains enjoyable day after day.”
