Japanese Curry - The Creative Adventurer https://thecreativeadventurer.com A Travel Guide for Exploring the World Wed, 15 May 2024 18:26:55 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.9.4 https://i0.wp.com/thecreativeadventurer.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/cropped-NewCreativeAdventurerLogo_250x250_v1.png?fit=32%2C32&ssl=1 Japanese Curry - The Creative Adventurer https://thecreativeadventurer.com 32 32 171399271 Best Traditional Japanese Curry in Tokyo: Top Restaurants, Fast Food Spots, and Unique Finds https://thecreativeadventurer.com/2017-9-7-experimenting-with-japanese-curry/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=2017-9-7-experimenting-with-japanese-curry https://thecreativeadventurer.com/2017-9-7-experimenting-with-japanese-curry/#comments Mon, 05 Feb 2024 10:12:45 +0000 https://thecreativeadventurer.com//2017-9-7-experimenting-with-japanese-curry/ Before leaving for Japan, I did an immense amount of research on things to see, places to go and, <i>best of all</i>, where to eat! You hear so much about sushi and ramen that you're eyes are trained to search them out when walking around the city. But for me, the most surprising dish that we tried over and over was Japanese style curry! 
 

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]]> Before leaving for Japan, I researched things to see, places to visit, and, best of all, where to eat! With all the talk about sushi and ramen, your eyes are trained to seek them out as you wander the city. But for me, the most surprising dish that we tried repeatedly was Japanese-style curry! You’ll see Japanese curry everywhere in Japan, displayed as bright plastic models lining the windows of countless restaurants. It’s a dark brown, gravy-like sauce frequently depicted topped with cheese, fried meats, and eggs. 

Historical Background

Japanese curry is unlike any other curry we’ve tried before. Despite its British origins, it’s not like Thai, Indian, or even English curries. The British first introduced Japanese curry to the country during the Meiji era (1868–1912). It was easy to prepare since the main ingredients didn’t require refrigeration. However, curry didn’t gain popularity until the late 1960s. Over time, the Japanese customized the dish, changing the ingredients to make it uniquely Japanese.

Japanese curry is more like a European stew. Start by making a roux (cooking flour and butter), then add a meat stock to deepen the flavour. After cooking it for hours, you end up with a thick, dark brown sauce, almost like a meat gravy. This rich elixir is garnished on Japanese rice with your favourite toppings.

Curry’s Rise in Popularity

Curry only gained widespread popularity in the 1920s after it became available nationwide as an “instant” mix. Housewives could cook curry using pre-made dried cubes, rehydrate them at home, and add leftover proteins and veggies. As more households embraced curry, its presence in restaurants increased, eventually becoming a home and restaurant dining staple.

Spices are also crucial in creating authentic Japanese curry. In summer, Japanese people eat hot and spicy food to cool down by sweating. So you’ll see people enjoying hot and spicy curry morning, noon, and night—regardless of the weather.

The Best Place for Curry: Coco Curry Ichibanya

In my opinion, the best place to satisfy your curry cravings is Coco Curry Ichibanya! This restaurant has been one of Japan’s favourite curry chains since 1978. When you enter, a friendly host will seat you at a table. They offer a full menu in English and other languages in larger cities, making it easy to spot to make your first Japanese Curry order.

While you can always select one of their pre-determined curry combos, I like customizing my order. The first step is choosing your curry sauce; you can select from pork, beef, or hashed beef. Next, you choose your rice portion, and if you opt for a small one (200 grams), you’ll save about a dollar on your order. Then, you choose your spice level, ranging from 1 to 10. Even levels 2 to 3 are intense, but different locations vary in their spice application, so it’s always a bit of a gamble. If you love spice, take the risk; stick to level one (or zero) if you prefer something milder. The last option is to customize your toppings. Options include fried cutlets, shrimp, sausages, vegetables, cheese, kimchi, and garlic. Each item is priced clearly next to the ingredient.

I usually ordered pork curry with chicken cutlets, mushrooms, cheese, and garlic bits! Alongside the curry is a dish of pickles, known as tsukemono, which creates harmony in the meal and counteracts the heaviness of the rich ingredients. They’re the ultimate umami package, and the vinegar helps cut the fatty richness of the dish.

Top Restaurants for Traditional Japanese Curry in Tokyo

Tokyo is a haven for curry lovers, offering a diverse range of restaurants that cater to every palate. From rich, velvety stews to innovative takes on classic flavours, these top restaurants serve some of the best traditional Japanese curries in the city. Whether you’re looking for hearty, comforting dishes or unique gourmet experiences, these spots will satisfy your curry cravings with their signature blends of spices and perfectly cooked toppings.

Craft Curry Brothers $$

Tucked away just north of the famed Yoyogi Park and Meiji Shrine, Craft Curry Brothers is a cozy and innovative curry restaurant known for its artisanal approach to curry making. With a focus on high-quality ingredients and unique flavour combinations, the restaurant brings a fresh and creative twist to traditional Japanese curry. Their standout dish is the keema curry, which is made from minced beef topped with the most gently soft-boiled egg that melts into curry sauce. The curry is served atop fluffy rice, which makes for the most beautiful layered presentation.

Joto Curry $$

Tucked away in a vibrant corner of Tokyo’s Shibuya district, Joto Curry Shibuya is a popular curry spot known for its hearty, flavorful dishes. This cozy eatery specializes in traditional Japanese-style curry, offering a rich and satisfying dining experience to curry enthusiasts and newcomers alike. The Pork Cutlet Curry is the menu star, featuring thick, crispy tonkatsu (pork cutlet) served over a bed of fluffy rice and generously topped with Joto’s signature curry sauce. The sauce is rich and savoury, boasting a complex blend of spices that provides a mild yet flavorful kick. The pork cutlet is fried to perfection, satisfying the dish’s crunch. The curry sauce is cooked slowly to develop a deep, rich flavour, and the cutlets are freshly fried for each order. The result is a meal that balances richness and spice, satisfying even the most discerning curry lovers.

E-itou Curry $$

E-itou Curry, nestled in Tokyo’s quiet Kitazawa district, is a charming restaurant that elevates Japanese curry to a gourmet level. Known for its sophisticated yet comforting dishes, E-itou Curry combines traditional flavours with innovative techniques to create a memorable dining experience. One of the most interesting things about their menu is that the feature curry specialties from all over Japan, such as their Okinawa Chicken Keema and Sapporo curry and even a Pakistani curry for an international twist on the traditional Japanese curry.

Moyan Curry $$

Moyan Curry has several locations around Tokyo, but my favourite is in Akasaka. The secret to Moyan Curry’s distinctive taste lies in its Original Curry Sauce, simmered for over two weeks to develop a deep, complex flavour. The base sauce is made using a blend of spices and herbs and a generous amount of fruits and vegetables, adding sweetness and balance to the dish. Each curry is finished with its unique spice blend, giving it a bold and distinctive taste. Moyan Curry is famous for its Lunch Buffet, where diners can sample various curry flavours and rice, salad, and side dishes. This buffet offers excellent value for money and allows guests to explore the diverse range of curries the restaurant is known for.

Curry Bondy $$$

Curry Bondy is a renowned curry house celebrated for its thick, velvety sauces and homestyle flavours. Established in 1972, the restaurant has built a dedicated following, drawing curry enthusiasts and locals to its cozy locations across Tokyo. Bondy’s curry is distinguished by its unique fruit and vegetable chutney, which adds to its complexity. Apples, other fruits, and vegetables like onions are stir-fried in plenty of butter, then boiled down with red wine to form a chutney. This chutney is blended with butter and spices, including red pepper, resulting in a sweet and spicy curry. All their curry is served with rice and a side of boiled potatoes and butter, which is their own unique addition.

Kitchen Nankai $

Located in the Jinbocho neighbourhood, Kitchen Nankai is a beloved, retro-style eatery known for its hearty and flavorful curries. With a history dating back to 1949, Kitchen Nankai has built a loyal following for its no-nonsense approach to Japanese comfort food, especially its iconic, darkened curry rice. The Curry Rice with Pork Cutlet is a signature dish at Kitchen Nankai Jinbocho. This classic curry features a generous portion of deep-fried pork cutlet (tonkatsu) placed atop a bed of steaming rice and smothered in Kitchen Nankai’s famous dark curry sauce. The curry itself is rich and savoury, with a mild spiciness that complements the crispy tonkatsu perfectly. The sauce’s deep flavour comes from a well-guarded, time-tested recipe that simmers various spices and vegetables for hours. A side of shredded cabbage adds a refreshing crunch that balances the hearty curry and tonkatsu.

Loup de Mer $$

Loup de Mer Curry is a stylish yet unassuming restaurant specializing in omelet rice curry. Omelet Rice Curry, also known as Omurice Curry, is a hearty combination featuring a fluffy omelet wrapped around seasoned fried rice placed atop rich Japanese curry sauce. The curry here is more European-style in flavour, but the addition of the Omurice makes it a must-try for any tourist visiting! The curry, despite its European style, is Japanese in terms of spiciness, but luckily, the creaminess of the eggs helps to balance out any overly spicy flavours. Don’t miss this spot when you’re in town; it’s worth the wait if there’s a line out the door!

Mokubaza $$

Nestled in the heart of Tokyo’s Shibuya neighbourhood, Mokubaza is a cozy and stylish curry spot that combines inventive flair with traditional flavours. The Cheese Keema Curry is a culinary masterpiece and Mokubaza’s signature dish. Served on a round, hot plate, the curry features a rich and flavorful keema curry base—a spiced ground meat mixture topped with a generous layer of melted cheese. The cheese creates a gooey, decadent crown that perfectly complements the bold, spiced keema. A carefully placed raw egg yolk at the center adds a layer of salty richness to the dish. 

Whether you’re a curry connoisseur or simply looking to explore Japan’s rich culinary landscape, Tokyo offers a diverse and flavorful range of traditional Japanese curries to suit every palate. From the rich, velvety sauces of iconic restaurants like Curry Bondy to the creative twists at places like Loup de Mer and the comforting, customizable plates at Coco Ichibanya, there’s no shortage of spots to satisfy your curry cravings. With this guide to the best traditional Japanese curry in Tokyo, you’re sure to discover new favourites and unique flavour combinations that will leave you coming back for more. So grab your spoon, dive into a steaming plate of curry, and embark on a mouthwatering journey through Tokyo’s vibrant curry scene!

Happy Travels, Adventurers

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]]> https://thecreativeadventurer.com/2017-9-7-experimenting-with-japanese-curry/feed/ 1 101 Amazing Vending Machines You Won’t Believe Exist in Japan https://thecreativeadventurer.com/amazing-vending-machines-you-wont-believe-exist-in-japan/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=amazing-vending-machines-you-wont-believe-exist-in-japan https://thecreativeadventurer.com/amazing-vending-machines-you-wont-believe-exist-in-japan/#comments Tue, 16 Feb 2021 16:31:55 +0000 https://thecreativeadventurer.com/?p=21428 Before I ever had the idea of planning a trip to Japan, the image I had...

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]]> Before I ever had the idea of planning a trip to Japan, the image I had in my mind was a city replete with vending machines. I had written an essay in University all about the history of vending machines, and of course, a portion of that covered Japan. I had these images in my mind of a hybrid city, old and new, modern and ancient, joined together by rows and rows of vending machines, like the patchwork on an old torn-up sweater. And honestly, I wasn’t that far off.

Vending machines make up a huge section of the fabric of the country whether you are in a big city or out in the countryside. There are 5 million vending machines to be found across the country. That’s one vending machine for every 23 people and these babies rack in more than $60 billion annually! So next time you’re visiting Japan you need to check them out! But you’ll be surprised to find more than just soda and candy inside…

Japanese vending machines sell everything from flowers to fish. From bread to bees. Uncovering hidden vending machines selling strange oddities becomes an unwritten game on your travels. Every new street you walk down an opportunity to discover something new!

Japanese Vending Machines
  1. History
  2. Why are Vending Machines so Popular in Japan?
  3. How to Pay
  4. Checklist
  5. Drink Vending Machines
  6. Popcorn Vending Machine
  7. Canned Oden
  8. Mystery Vending Machine
  9. Akihabara Gachapon Hall
  10. Sake Tasting Vending Machine
  11. Pokémon vending machine
  12. Omamori Vending Machine
  13. Shibuya 109 T-shirt Vending Machine
  14. Hot Food Vending Machine
  15. Fruit Vending Machines
  16. Natto Vending Machine
  17. Flower Vending Machine
  18. Dashi Soup Stock 
  19. Bread in a Can
  20. Bugs in a Can
  21. Umbrella Vending Machine
  22. Cigarette Machine
  23. Corn Potage
  24. Ice Cream
  25. Crepes
  26. Medical Masks
  27. Vegetable Vending Machines
  28. Egg Vending Machines
  29. Rice Vending Machines
  30. Curry Vending Machine
  31. Instant Noodles Vending Machine
  32. PCR Testing Kit Vending Machine
  33. Jihanki Shokudo

History

The very first vending machine was made in Alexandria in 251 BC! It was a holy water dispenser. It worked by inserting a coin into a slot and the weight of the coin would trigger a lever to dispense a vial of holy water. The different weights of the various coins would dispense different sizes of holy water. Impressive that such an invention dates back so far into history.

The first Japanese vending machine was made in 1888. It was designed by Tawaraya Koshichi who was an amateur inventor and full-time furniture maker. Koshichi sold tobacco out of his machine, a popular kind of vending machine still to this day.

One of the oldest remaining vending machines is still on display in the Postal Museum of Japan, located in Tokyo. The machine dated back to 1904 and was an automatic stamp and postcard vending machine.

The boom of vending machines began in the 1950s with automated “fountain-style juice dispensers” installed inside office buildings. These machines would dispense a cup of juice for just 10 yen into a small paper cup. You could get a little taste of your favourite drink without needing to leave the office. These caught on like wildfire and more and more machines began appearing all over Japan.  In the 60s and 70s, vending machines were used to dispense short-distance tickets at train stations. In these more remote locations where it wasn’t financially viable to employ human workers 24/hours a day, these made a huge change in how the rail system functioned. And now, automated machines are responsible for almost 100% of the ticketing at metro stations in Japan.

Momotarou2012, CC BY-SA 3.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Why are Vending Machines so Popular in Japan?

There are lots of different reasons why the vending machine’s popularity exploded in Japan. In many of the larger, more populated cities, real estate costs are astronomically high. Therefore, vending machines have become the best option to replace medium and small-sized convenience stores. This also means cost-savings in the workforce as you don’t need to employ a cashier full time to checkout customers. All you need is one man to replace the stock every few days (or more frequently depending on the location.)

Japanese people are also overly concerned with convenience. They are busy people with workdays exceeding those of any other country. So being able to run out and get a coffee from a “vendo” means you don’t even need to walk down the street to the local coffee shop.

While other countries keep most of their vending machines safe indoors, in Japan there are millions outside. The crime rate in Japan is so low that the machines are rarely ever vandalized. Lastly, Japanese people love automation. Japan has long been a country of extraordinary inventions. Many of these vending machines are an automated answer to a physical problem and the Japanese love to see their ingenuity in action.

How to Pay

Japan is a majorly cash-based society. A surprising thing considering how we sometimes view Japan as this metropolis of modernity. Most vending machines require coins to dispense any item inside. In the past few years we can started to see more and more modern machines, some of which have entirely LED displays. These newer machines are able to accept cards but often then only works with local credit cards.

Over the years, more and more machines have been retrofitted with tap payments. This works with your Suica and Pasmo metro cards. These cards are meant to be used to pay for your trips on the metro but can be preloaded with funds and used at vending machines and even some convenience stores. If you are travelling on the public rail system you’ll need one of these cards so I would always advise you to load it up with more money than you think as you’ll find so many different ways to use your cards.

Checklist

I’ve included a fun checklist of the most interesting vending machines I’ve found on my travels if you want to make a game of this hunt too! If you discover some new ones, add them to the list and please comment on this post of what they are and where you found them here so other people can find them too! Some of these vending have specific locations and I’ve done my best to add those to a google map at the bottom of this post for you to follow! Others are scattered around the city so you just need to keep your eyes peeled. Happy Hunting!

Drink Vending Machines

I have an entire post dedicated just to the incredible and exciting drinks you can find inside vending machines in Japan. In general, these consist of the following categories:

  • Sodas
  • Juices
  • Yogurt Drinks
  • Milk
  • Coffee
  • Tea
  • Water
  • Vitamin Drinks
  • Alcohol

Feel free to check out my post entirely dedicated to these unique creations to see if you can find them all or discover a new favourite for yourself.

Popcorn Vending Machine

Akihabara, the kingdom of Otaku culture, is one of the main hubs where you can find the best vending machines in the city! One of the most popular places for vending machine hunters has been dubbed Akihabara Vending Machine Corner. I’ve pinned the location of this place on the map at the bottom of this post.

Right out front is the ever-popular Popcorn Vending Machine. This retro-styled machine pops freshly made popcorn on demand for just 220 yen a cup. While the device looks old and run down, the popcorn it produces is surprisingly fresh and delicious! That’s one of the most interesting things about Japan, even those things that look old and unusable are maintained in perfect working order. So don’t let the age fool you!

Canned Oden

Also found in Akihabara’s vending machine corner is the canned oden machine. Oden is a Japanese one-pot dish consisting of ingredients like boiled eggs, daikon, konjac, and fishcakes all inside a light, soy-flavoured dashi broth. The canned version is served piping hot, even inside the vending machine. You peel off the lid and inside is a little toothpick that helps you eat all the ingredients in the soup. To drink the broth you just need to sip it like a drink. While this might seem pretty strange for those in a rush or who need a hit of oden before the konbinis open, this is super convenient!

If you can’t make it out to Japan to see and experience the amazing food for yourself you should check out Sugoi Mart, a Japanese online store, shipping all over the world everything that Japan has to offer. From snacks, chocolates, anime licenses to toys and collectibles, our motto is pretty much: You want it? They have it! If they don’t, let them know and they will! Use Promo code: CREATIVE15 for 15% OFF today!

Mystery Vending Machine

Perhaps one machine that has gained notoriety over the last few years is the Akihabara Mystery Vending Machine. To be honest with you, this machine is a total novelty. While it’s interesting to look at, don’t waste your money getting anything from inside it. Inside this ubiquitous machine, are a series of white boxes. On the exteriors are strange notes and weird poems that have absolutely nothing to do with the contents inside. Each one costs around 500 yen and while they suck you in to imagine you’ll get a real unique surprise they are nothing more than stale chocolates and other cheap everyday snacks. It’s worth a laugh to look at but save your money for something else.

Akihabara Gachapon Hall

Gachapon refers to the little vending machines that dispense capsule toys. The word ‘Gachapon ‘is onomatopoeia for the sound the crank makes when you use the machine. These little brightly coloured machines each contain different sets of toys, and you never know which item from the collection you’re going to receive. It’s totally random. Most locations include some rare toys which become sought-after collector treasures. The toys change pretty often, so there’s always something new to buy.

We found little plastic cats were sitting on rice cookers, tiny replicas of vintage buckets, Pokemon-shaped cookies, and lots of Japanese cartoon characters often themed around the nearest holiday. These make for small, cheap souvenirs to bring home for friends and family. They are wonderfully weird and always unexpected. The Akihabara Gachapon Hall is where you can find hundreds of these machines all in one place. Although spotting them all over the city is a fun little activity, if you’re looking for something in particular, then this is the place you should check out!

Sake Tasting Vending Machine

Located inside the minature mall near the west exit of Ryogoku Station is ‘Tokyo Store.’ Inside this small stand-up bar, you’ll find a series of sake vending machines. Inside the metal and glass boxes are sake bottles from all over Japan. But you aren’t buying the whole bottle. Instead, you can drop your coins into the dispenser and try out a small shot of sake from that region. Inside each machine are three types of sake: Junmai shu (200 yen/cup), Ginjo-shu (300 yen/cup) and Daiginjo-shu (400 yen/cup). Each one is brewed slightly differently, and they each have progressively stronger alcohol content. The more alcohol, the more expensive the drink.

To use the vending machines, take one of the small blue and white ceramic cups from the clean station and choose your sake. Place the cup under the dispenser and drop in your coins. Then your cup will be filled up with that specified sake! If you don’t have 100 yen coins, there is a change dispense located at the store’s front. If you’ve never tried sake before, this is a great way to see what you like and don’t like. Feel free to share your shots with a friend to ensure you don’t get too buzzed, as some of the sake can be pretty strong!

Pokémon vending machine

Over in Odaiba, you can find a Pokémon vending machine. Pokémon stores are one of the most sought after shops in Tokyo. Since the Odaiba mall doesn’t have a Pokémon store, they have installed this little vendo to ensure, you can still “catch them all!” This is one of the most modern vending machines, with a touch screen and a digital inventory. Inside this machine, you’ll find everything from the newest plushy toys to themed keychains. They are dispensed into these adorable white and red boxes, an added bonus to the entire experience.

Omamori Vending Machine

Omamori are Japanese amulets commonly sold at Shinto shrines and Buddhist temples. Each one is dedicated to particular Shinto kami. Kamis are important spirits or gods in Shintoism. The kami embody values and virtues and are thought to be ancient ancestors made of different forces of nature. Outside Japanese shrines, there are usually little shops where you can buy various Omamori. These amulets are said to provide various forms of luck or protection.

Over the years, as fewer people are working inside these shrines as the population dwindles, they needed to come up with a way to still sell these items. In this case, vending machines have given visitors the ability to get their dose of protection at any time of the day, without the need for an open kiosk. Good luck on demand. Can’t get more modern than that!

Corpse Reviver, CC BY-SA 3.0 http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/, via Wikimedia Commons

Shibuya 109 T-shirt Vending Machine

At the entrance to the popular shopping mall Shibuya 109, you’ll find a brightly coloured t-shirt vending machine. Inside this machine, you’ll find a series of graphic souvenir t-shirts. The shirts aren’t the cheapest at 1,200 to 2,500 yen apiece, but honestly, the shirts’ designs are pretty impressive.

Hot Food Vending Machine

24-Hour Hot Meal Vending Machines are found throughout the country in areas where there might not be a restaurant or where people find themselves after hours needing food. The items inside are frozen, and once you insert your money and select your meal, the frozen food is placed inside a microwave where it is reheated automatically. Depending on the type of meal you choose, it will take a different amount of time to reheat, and then the microwave door will pop open. They offer everything from hot dogs, takoyaki (octopus balls), hamburgers, fries and even the iconic fish-shaped dessert taiyaki! Although the food might be a little subpar, the boxes in which the food is packaged are surprisingly well designed. The Yakisoba is most likely your best bet as the noodles reheat pretty well, and the sauce is well flavoured enough to balance out the dish.

Fruit Vending Machines

For a quick and healthy breakfast on the go, find yourself a Banana or Apple vending machine. These are mainly found inside train stations for people on their way to work. They are sold either by a bunch (for the bananas) or individually packaged. Japanese people tend not to shop for huge grocery orders like we do in North America. So their fridges aren’t constantly stocked with fresh food. So these machines are a great way for them to get some fresh fruit before heading off to work.

James Hadfield, CC BY 2.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Natto Vending Machine

Natto might be the only thing I tried in Japan that I roundly objected to. That being said, so many people love it and swear by its health benefits. Natto is a traditional Japanese food made from soybeans that have been fermented. It’s considered a breakfast food but can be eaten anytime. While I’m a fan of fermented kimchi, there is something about the slimy and sticky texture of natto that I just can’t get on board with. Natto vending machines are another popular stop for many salary men and women on their work who need a quick breakfast on the go!

Flower Vending Machine

In the lower levels of Shinjuku station, you might happen upon these flower vending machines. These vending machines are fairly large in order to dispense full sized bouquets which can even come inside glass vases. For those salarymen who might not have time to stop in at a florist on the way home to their beloved this is a great option. The flowers come in a vareity of sizes, as small as a single rose. They are replcaed daily so there is always something fresh.

m-louis .®, CC BY-SA 2.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Dashi Soup Stock 

At first glance, you might think this vending machine is selling black tea, but if you look closer, you might be shocked at what you see inside. Inside the brown liquid bottles is an entire fish! These are, in fact, not drinks but Dashi soup stock. Dashi is one of the most essential ingredients in many Japanese dishes, like ramen, okonomiyaki and takoyaki.

It might seem strange to foreigners to see these in such large quantities taking up an entire vending machine, but running out of dashi might be like running out of sugar. And instead of going to the neighbours to borrow a cup of sugar, you can just go to the vending machine down the street. Suppose you’re interested in buying one but have no idea how to use it without cooking an entire pot of soup? In that case, you can pour some into some instant ramen to boost up the flavour or just drizzle it over soft-boiled eggs in the morning for an even more tasty meal.

Bread in a Can

Inokashira Park, in the quaint neighbourhood of Kichijōji, is home to a few impressive vending machines. Inokashira Park is a beautiful park to visit outside the city centre if you’re looking for a peaceful place to escape to. One of the most popular vending machines you can find here is the canned bread vending machine! Canned bread was invented to preserve food during the war and is still something people eat today. Here in the park, these machine serves flavours like blueberry, strawberry and orange. Although this seems like a bad idea, the bread is surprisingly soft and the fruity jam really adds to the flavour.

Bugs in a Can

If you thought bread in a can was weird, well, then Inokashira Park has a real surprise in store for you. You can also buy canned grasshoppers or bee larvae from the same vending machine! This is really for the brave at heart. That being said, the bugs are heavily flavoured in soya sauce, so the critters’ taste is pretty muted, you just have to get over the texture…

Umbrella Vending Machine

Japan is known for its extreme weather. Japan’s rainy season lasts from the beginning of June to mid-July and can come out of nowhere. For this reason, you never want to be caught without an umbrella. Lucky for you, they have their fair share of Umbrella vending machines. The umbrellas cost only 500 yen and are surprisingly sturdy considering the low price!

mdxdt, CC BY 2.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Cigarette Machine

One of the only things I don’t like about Japan is the number of people smoking. Unlike many other countries, smoking is still wildly popular here. And therefore, Cigarette Vending Machines can be found everywhere you go. These require a special age-verification ID card to purchase anything to ensure underage people are not smoking. While I’m not the biggest fan of these machines’ popularity, as it seems to feed the addiction, I would be remiss not to mention them here.

Corn Potage

You might have heard of the infamous Japanese corn soup in a can and indeed, it’s real! Corn Potage, or corn soup, is a drinkable meal that is served warm and on the go! These are super popular in the winter as a great way to warm up and feed your body as well! While it might seem strange, corn soup is absolutely delicious and totally worth your time and money to try! You just need to get past the idea of drinking chunky soup, and then you’ll be home free.

Ice Cream

On hot days in the middle of Japan’s crushingly humid summers, there is nothing better than cold ice cream. But sometimes, when you’re wandering around the park, you don’t want to have to get up and walk all the way over to the convenience store. That’s where ice cream vending machines come in! Ice cream in Japan is superb, and there are so many unique varieties you can find inside these machines.

Crepes

If ice cream isn’t your favourite dessert, not to fear, vending machines in Japan also serve up crepes! The crepe vending machines serve both hot and cold varieties. They have flavours like cheese and strawberry, chocolate and banana, custard, caramel and more! They cost around 200 yen apiece. These are pretty rare, so if you find one, definitely give it a try!

Medical Masks

Well before COVID-19, Japan was all over the idea of wearing medical masks. Japanese people take the well-being of others very seriously. Before COVID-19, everyone would wear masks not because they were afraid of other people’s illnesses but instead, to wear if they were feeling unwell as to not spread the disease to others. Because illness can hit at any time, mask dispensers were extremely popular. The vending machine masks also allow the purchaser not to have to interact with anyone either, no need to go inside a convenience store. I’m sure they will be making lots more of these machines in 2021!

Vegetable Vending Machines

Out in the country, instead of farmers’ markets, vegetable producers can place their goods inside vegetable vending machines where locals can come and pick up their shopping for the day. These have everything from radishes, lettuce, sweet potatoes and more! You won’t find these in big cities where grocery stores are more popular but they are great for rural areas. These are the Japanese version of farm stands we might find on country roads in North America.

Egg Vending Machines

Eggs vending machines are another item you’ll find in the country. They come as small as packs of 6, the perfect size for a few soft-boiled eggs to make for breakfast in the morning. These vending machines are so adorable and often are designed to look like a giant chicken 🙂

Rice Vending Machines

Another solution servicing the countryside is rice vending machines. These sell rice by the pound in all sorts of varieties. This is a great way to pick up the rice you need for the day or the week without travelling to the grocery store which can sometimes be a far drive depending on the ruralness of the area. Rice is the lifeblood of meals in Japan so the fact these are open 24 hours a day is fantastic!

Curry Vending Machine

Curry in Japan is one of my favourite things to eat. Japanese curry is unlike Thai or Indian curry, it is a creation all of its own. One way which people have been eating curry for years is in these retort pouches. And vending machine curry pouches were a great way for people to get a delicious curry to cook quickly when they go home. Inside the laminate pouch are different varieties of curry and rice that just need to be dipped in boiling water or microwaved for 3-7 minutes. Then open the pouch and chow down on your curry. It might seem odd to buy your curry in a pouch when there are so many fast-food curry joints but some people who has a particular nostalgia for them swear the flavour is more pronounced in these retort pouches. You’ll have to try it for yourself to find out!

Instant Noodles Vending Machine

Cup Noodles is a brand of instant ramen we all have eaten in college. It may have been invented in Japan in 1971 but it has since become a phenomenon all over the world. But in Japan, you can get your ramen fix from a Cup Noodles Vending Machine! These single-serving cups of freeze-dried noodles are brought to life with the addition of boiling water. These vending machines sell a variety of different flavours and after the cup is dispensed you use the on-site boiling water station to rehydrate your noodles!

PCR Testing Kit Vending Machine

This is perhaps the more 2020 Japanese invention of all time – the vending machine PCR Covid testing kit. These machines sell at-home saliva-based kits for 4,500 yen. You just give yourself a swab and mail in the kit for analysis. No need to go into any pharmacies or hospitals for a test possibly spreading the virus further. Right now there are five locations, but more are said to be installed over the next few months.

番記者, CC BY-SA 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Jihanki Shokudo

If you’re interested in an experience unlike any other, then head over to Jihanki Shokudo, the Automated Diner. Jihanki Shokudo is a fully unstaffed restaurant featuring a few retro vending machines. These serve up hot noodles, sandwiches, burgers and more! There are several tables inside where you can eat your reheated meal. In addition to the food, there are a series of drink vending machines and a few gatchapon as well. While the machines inside don’t look very fancy and slightly rundown, there are serviced frequently, and the food inside is as fresh as vending machine food can be. For any vending machine addict, it’s worth checking out just for the strangeness of the experience. 

I hope you enjoyed this list of the best vending machines you can seek out in Japan. But I’m sure there are lots more which I have yet to discover. If you have any favourites please let me know in the comments and I’ll be sure to seek them out on my next adventure to Japan.

Happy Travels, Adventurers!

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]]> https://thecreativeadventurer.com/amazing-vending-machines-you-wont-believe-exist-in-japan/feed/ 5 21428 Ultimate Guide to the Best Konbini Sandwiches in Japan https://thecreativeadventurer.com/ultimate-guide-to-the-best-konbini-sandwiches-in-japan/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=ultimate-guide-to-the-best-konbini-sandwiches-in-japan https://thecreativeadventurer.com/ultimate-guide-to-the-best-konbini-sandwiches-in-japan/#respond Sun, 14 Feb 2021 10:35:00 +0000 https://thecreativeadventurer.com/?p=21301 Continuing my series on the best foods to eat in Japan, I bring you to one...

The post Ultimate Guide to the Best Konbini Sandwiches in Japan first appeared on The Creative Adventurer.

]]> Continuing my series on the best foods to eat in Japan, I bring you to one of my favourite money-saving (and yet shockingly delicious) options: Konbini Sandwiches! A Konbini is a nickname for Japanese convenience stores. And I have a post dedicated to all about how unique and tasty Japanese convenience stores are! Trust me, they are one of the best places to eat in Japan if you’re on a budget or just need something quick to eat.

While a sandwich from a convenience store might sound wildly uninteresting when you’ve travelled halfway across the world to experience new and exciting cuisine, I implore you to give them a try. While it’s true I wouldn’t recommend ONLY eating these throughout your trip, I think they might surprise you. Some of the flavours and ingredients are things you’ll only find in Japan! So despite thinking you’ve eaten enough sandwiches before, you’ve never had one like this!

Table Of Contents
  1. Where to Find Konbinis
  2. History
  3. Egg Salad Sandwich
  4. Strawberries n' Cream
  5. Tonkatsu Sandwich 
  6. Shrimp Cutlet & Tartare Sauce
  7. Veggie Sandwich
  8. Plump Tamago Sando
  9. Curry Bread
  10. Cream Cheese and Basil Chicken
  11. Yakisoba
  12. Blueberry Cheesecake Sandwich
  13. Red Bean and Cream
  14. Pudding Sandwich
  15. Limited Editions

Where to Find Konbinis

There are more than 50,000 convenience stores across the country! It doesn’t matter if you’re in a big city or out in the countryside, a konbini is never far away. In fact, on our trip to Hakone during the offseason, the konbini was one of the only places we could find to eat for cheap. Our hotel had a restaurant, but the prices were much too high for us, and since it was off-season, all the local restaurants closed after lunch. But our trusty konbini down the road had everything we needed to have a stunning in-hotel feast! Completed of course with a series of sandwiches (or sandos for short in Japan).

History

You might be wondering to yourself, “are sandwiches really what I want to be eating in Japan?!” They might not seem like a traditional part of Japanese cusine, but Japan actually does have a long love affair with bread. In the 16th century, bread began to be imported from Portuguese trading ships that came into Nagasaki. The Japanese word for bread is “pan,” which comes from the Portuguese word for bread: “pão.”

But like many now-iconic dishes in Japan, they adapted the ingredients inside for the local palate. But the current incarnation of soft white bread comes from the postwar occupation era when imported wheat and powdered milk became one of the cheapest ingredients for school children’s lunches. An entire generation grew up eating pillowy soft white bread, and that nostalgic connection would persevere well into the next generation. In fact, in 2011, rice sales were down for the first time as more and more people have been eating bread over rice.

The Bread

Like everything in Japan, the design of their sandwiches is perfectly thought out. The bread is soft enough to ensure the filling doesn’t seep out but always fresh so that the bread never gets soggy. The sandwiches are made twice a day to ensure this fact. Often, they sell out so fast that you’re more likely not to find any at all than discover stale one. The filling is rarely too bulky and, therefore, never messy to eat. And best of all, the ingredients used to make the sandwiches are surprisingly high quality ensuring that even a little snack feels like a gourmet meal!

Below are my favourite sandwiches which I think you MUST-TRY on your next trip to Japan! All of these snacks cost less than 500 yen, so you can try them all without breaking the bank!

Egg Salad Sandwich

Ok, now, don’t get me wrong, recommending an egg salad sandwich from a convenience store anywhere else in the world might seem like a death wish. But Egg Salad Sandwiches in Japan are one of the most fantastic food items in the country. Honestly, if I could choose just five things to eat in Japan, this would make a list! Foodie legend Anthony Bourdain himself is coined as saying they are “unnatural, inexplicable and delicious.” The bread used in all konbini sandwiches is soft as a pillow and correctly served with the crusts cut off.

The actual egg salad is creamy beyond belief. They make sure to remove many of the egg whites from the dish, making it less healthy, but it sure makes it taste better! These are umami’s definition, and I’m not ashamed to say I ate one every morning! There is much discussion about who makes the best egg salad sandwich, and I think everyone has their own preference. Mine is Lawson but let me know what yours is.

Strawberries n’ Cream

If egg sandwiches aren’t your bag, you need to try one of the sweet cream sandwiches. These are perfect as a gourmet breakfast option. Cream sandwiches are served inside the same fluffy white bread but are filled with various fresh fruit and light as a feather whipped cream. One of the best of these is the Strawberry cream sandwiches. Strawberries are a saught after fruit in Japan. Strawberries or ichigo have their own season in Japan, with gourmet varieties of the berry going for upwards of hundreds of dollars a box! But you won’t need to spend that much on these delectable treats. During certain times of the year, generally around Valentines, they add some custard to the sandwich for an even more luxurious taste!

Tonkatsu Sandwich 

One of the most simple and yet delicious lunches you can have is a Tonkatsu sandwich. Tonkatsu is a pork cutlet, which is literally sandwiched between two slices of that iconically soft bread, shredded cabbage and a thin Japanese mayo layer. The mixture of these textures is what makes this sandwich a 10/10! You can choose to warm this up in the microwave or just eat it right out of the bag. Either way, stunningly delicious!

Shrimp Cutlet & Tartare Sauce

An unsung hero of the sando crew is the Shrimp Cutlet & Tartare Sauce sandwich. The crispy shrimp is balanced perfectly with the umami flavour of onions and pickles in the tartare sauce. It has that little zing that amps up the taste just a little bit more! The shrimp is soft and juicy and since Japan is the centre of seafood always local!

Veggie Sandwich

I get many questions about how hard it is to eat vegetarian in Japan because they are such a fish and seafood-focused culture. And while that’s true, there are LOTS options available to you if you do your research. One of the easiest options is this Veggie sandwich from 7-Eleven. This colourful sando has 6 different kinds of vegetables all packed into one meal! The addition of corn might seem odd, but I love the texture and flavour it adds.

Plump Tamago Sando

For an even more gourmet experience with your egg salad sandwich, you need to head over to FamilyMart and try one of their Plump Tamago Sandos. Instead of mashing the entire egg up, two soft-boiled “plump” eggs are placed inside the sandwich, along with some extra salad. This makes the whole meal a little richer and more upscale than the traditional salad sando.

Curry Bread

Although some might argue that this isn’t a traditional sandwich, it is bread with a filling. And in my opinion, that qualifies it as a sandwich. Curry Bread consists of Japanese beef or chicken curry wrapped in a piece of dough, which is then coated in bread crumbs and deep-fried. All convenience stores sell different takes on this. They can be warmed up in the oven just before eating for that perfect ooey-gooey curry filled center.

Cream Cheese and Basil Chicken

A new item they began selling last year is the cream cheese and basil chicken sandwich. This is one of their more filling options and is so perfectly seasoned. It might be a little more “western” in terms of the flavours but is just as delicious nonetheless.

Yakisoba

One of the strangest options you’ll find in many different iterations is a Yakisoba sandwich. Yakisoba is Japanese for “fried noodles.” The “soba” noodles are made from buckwheat instead of wheat flour. The noodles are covered in a thick brown sauce similar to Worcestershire sauce. They are generally topped with pickled ginger, parsley and some Japanese mayo. To hold such a hefty filling, these are served inside large sausage rolls. It’s one of the seemingly more intimidating options, but yakisoba is so delicious, as is the bread, so they make a great combo!

Blueberry Cheesecake Sandwich

One of my favourite sandwiches is this take on a simple grape jelly sandwich, the Blueberry Cheesecake sando. Instead of grape jelly, though (which isn’t always my first choice), you get softly cooked blueberries layered between unsweetened cream cheese. The combination of the tart cheese and sweet berries is perfection! It really is like eating a cheesecake!

Red Bean and Cream

Adzuki, better know to us as “red beans,” is made into a sweet paste popular throughout Japan. You’ll find it in a myriad of different desserts, so it should be no surprise to see it in a sandwich as well. In fact, in 1874, the sandwich’s popularity rose to fame with the creation of the anpan, which was a bread roll filled with adzuki bean paste. Today we have a more modern version of the traditional recipe. The Red Beans and Cream sandwich blend the beans’ slightly gritty texture with the soft and supple sweet whipped cream. If you like red bean paste, then you MUST give this one a try!

Pudding Sandwich

For anyone who loves English bread pudding, boy, do I have a teat for you! FamilyMart sells a thick pudding cake sandwich that combines 2 types of cream and a thick layer of pudding between a special sponge flavoured bread. This is truly a dessert sando but 100% worth tasting on your next trip!

Limited Editions

To compete with each other, convenience stores seem to be continually releasing “limited edition” items throughout the year. These are usually in line with fruits that are in season or something to match an upcoming holiday. During the summer, try the Peaches n’ Cream or their seasonal Gorotto Kiwi Cream sandwich. In the winter, they come out with sweet potatoes and cream products, almost like pumpkin pie sandwiches. I’ve seen macha flavoured bread filled with cream and even a chocolate pudding sandwich! There truly is always something exciting to try that you might never find again.

Hopefully this guide to my favourite konbini sandos gave you some insight into the wonders that are Japanese convenience stores. Let me know if the comments if you’ve ever tried any of these or if you have some new favourites!

Happy Travels, Adventurers!

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]]> https://thecreativeadventurer.com/ultimate-guide-to-the-best-konbini-sandwiches-in-japan/feed/ 0 21301 How to Save Money Eating Incredible Food in Japan https://thecreativeadventurer.com/how-to-save-money-eating-incredible-food-in-japan/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=how-to-save-money-eating-incredible-food-in-japan https://thecreativeadventurer.com/how-to-save-money-eating-incredible-food-in-japan/#respond Fri, 09 Mar 2018 19:48:17 +0000 https://thecreativeadventurer.com//how-to-save-money-eating-incredible-food-in-japan/ Japan is often thought of as an expensive city to visit. Tokyo is one of the world largest metropolis and while finding a cheap place to stay might not always be a walk in the park, you can easily save money on eating out while still eating like a king!

The post How to Save Money Eating Incredible Food in Japan first appeared on The Creative Adventurer.

]]> Japan is often thought of as an expensive city to visit. Tokyo is one of the world’s largest metropolis and while finding a cheap place to stay might not always be a walk in the park, you can easily save money on eating out while still dining like a king!

You’ll often hear stories of travellers returning from their trip to Japan and going on and on about how expensive the food was. But did they just walk into the first place that had a giant English menu out front or only go to restaurants recommended by their English-speaking concierge? While it might be true that Japan is more expensive than Thailand or Vietnam, there are plenty of low-cost options you can find with a little bit of research and some exploration to boot.

Table Of Contents
  1. #1. Street Food
  2. #2. Japanese Convenience Stores or Konbini 
  3. #3. Markets
  4. #4. Yakitori
  5. #5. Vending Machine Ramen Restaurants
  6. #6. Gyoza
  7. #7. Soft Serve Ice Cream
  8. #8. Conveyor Belt Sushi
  9. #9. Depachika
  10. #10. Japanese Fast Food
  11. #11 Ekiben

#1. Street Food

Street food is one of Asia’s best-kept not-so-secret-secrets. There are hundreds of different kinds of street foods available in Japan. A simple internet search for it will reveal hundreds of results. The best thing to keep in mind when sampling street foods is to be adventurous! Dishes won’t always look or taste familiar, but I’ve almost never tried something I didn’t completely fall in love with! And the few times I didn’t like something, they never cost more than a few dollars. 

Taiyaki

Taiyaki is one of the cutest and most delicious treats to eat in Japan. The fish-shaped sweet pancake dessert is filled with all different flavours. Depending on where you are in Japan they will often have unique special fillings only available in that prefecture. The most common option is fresh red bean, but my favourite is the custard and matcha. These usually cost about $1.50 and at that price you can afford to try them all!

Takoyaki

Not to be confused with Taiyaki, Takoyaki is a fried ball of batter filled with octopus tempura, covered in green onions, pickled ginger and shaved fish flakes (which look like they’re alive as the shiver and shake atop the hot batter). These are most popular in Osaka but can be found all over Japan. Cover them with a sweet and savoury sauce for added flavour and devour before they get cold. A tray will only run you about $5, and they are surprisingly filling.

Yakisoba

If you might think a tasty noodle dish wouldn’t be something you can get on the street, you have never tried Yakisoba. These wheat noodles are fried on a large griddle and come with stir-fried pork, vegetables and served with a tangy sauce. They can be topped with various toppings like mayo, fish flakes, and pickled ginger served beside the vendor much like a hot dog vendor would serve his condiments. An entire tray will only cost $5 and is more than enough for two people to share.

Rice Cakes

Rice cakes are a quick and delicious snack served all over Japan. They are crispy and come in an assortment of flavours. You can often buy them hot off the grill and make for the perfect thing to eat while you meander. You can usually get 2-3 for under $2. 

Curry Bread

Curry Bread is one of the most delicious grab-and-go treats. It is deep fried bread, covered in additional breadcrumbs filled with curried meats. Hot, spicy and saucy, this pastry costs $1-$2 and will warm you up on a cold day.

Manju

Manju is another sweet treat you can sample almost anywhere you find street vendors. They are small, round steamed cakes filled with a variety of flavours. In Asakusa, you can sample Agemanju which are additionally coated in tempura batter and deep-fried. They will often have seasonal fillings like Sakura, plum and even pumpkin.

#2. Japanese Convenience Stores or Konbini 

While this might shock and surprise you to hear, but no word of a lie, convenience stores or Konbini as they are lovingly called in Japan, are a veritable mecca of tasty traditional Japanese foods. If you’re looking to stock up on food to eat back at your hotel while enjoying some Japanese TV (which I highly recommend), then this is the place to go. It’s also a great place to buy ingredients for your Hanami (a picnic Japanese people have during cherry blossom season to enjoy the blooming flowers).

Onigiri

The first thing you need to consider when shopping at a Japanese convenience store is their wide selection of Onigiri. Onigiri are perfectly triangular rice balls wrapped in seaweed and filled with different varieties of fish and sometimes fruit. These only cost $2 and are very filling!

Bento Box

At 7-Eleven a Bento box will cost you easily under $10 (usually under $5) and will be just as delicious as any bento you’ve ever eaten at a restaurant. Perfectly organized into neat little sections, you can get rice, pickled veggies, tempura, salmon and even a dessert all in one adorable box. If you ask for it to be heated up just say “Atsui bentō”. It tastes even better that way and is the way to go!

Fried Chicken

Lawson’s is one of the most popular convenience stores in Japan and is known for their fried chicken. While the idea of eating chicken from a convenience store in North America might send a chill down your spine – in Japan, it is a delicacy. They have different cuts on offer; honetsuki (fried bone-in chicken), honenashi (fried boneless chicken), and different flavours of kara-age (deep-fried chicken nuggets).

Drinks | Coffee, Tea, Juice and More!

Lastly, make sure you grab a few beverages to keep you hydrated throughout the day. Konbinis serve up literally hundreds of different drinks. Be sure to try Pocari Sweat, a non-carbonated sweet beverage which is advertised as an “ion supply drink” – the ideal thing to keep you going all day long. Also be sure to try a variety of the different bottled teas. You can get them iced or even hot, in the heated cabinets at the front of the store. If you are feeling like something a little harder there are dozens of different sakes to try at super low prices. 

#3. Markets

Local vendors in markets all over Japan are selling some of the greatest foods you can sample in the entire country. While it might take getting up early and making your way through fish laden alleys, you are bound to discover some real gems. Outside of the hustle and bustle of Tsukiji fish market are dozens of vendors selling cookware, ceramics and, you guessed it, food! Omelette rolls are served up on a sticks. They are a fluffy and sweet snack to grab the go. These usually cost around $2 but the fancier ones can go up to $5. I couldn’t tell the difference, so opt for the cheaper ones.

Fresh Fish

Another market food to try in Japan is unagi. Made from eel which is smoked over hot coals, the taste is smoky and sweet as it is covered in a special BBQ sauce. Unagi can be expensive but served up on skewers in the marketplace you can sample it for a low low price, usually $5-$7. 

Sea urchin is another high priced ingredient you can sample for a small price at the market. Sea urchin or uni is a creamy, salty delicacy which some people love, and some people hate. You can find freshly opened uni all over the marketplace which costs about $5 a pop.

Lots of market also sell fresh sushi trays. Like you might have back home at the supermarket. But these are going to be SUPER fresh and all sourced from local fisheries. Often if you buy the sushi from the market, they have small eating areas nearby. So even though you are paying supermarket prices you get to eat at a table!

Mochi

Mochi is Japanese rice cake made from pounding down glutinous rice, a ritual you can often see being done in the markets every day. Once the mochi is at a dough like consistency, it is shaped into balls or squares and served fresh to the shoppers. They will often be paired with seasonal ingredients like strawberries and red bean, my personal favourite. The treats only cost around $2 and are surprisingly filling.

#4. Yakitori

Izakayas are found all over Japan, from big cities to the countryside, all of which serve up fresh Yakitori! Yakitori are bit size skewers of meat (traditionally chicken), fish or veggies. You will see things on the menu like skin, liver and innards. Each skewer is cooked over charcoals and then covered in a salt or soy sauce. You can order as many different skewers as you want and typically these restaurants are a great place to save money. Each skewer will only cost about $2 so you can order lots of different options. Don’t scare away from the weirder meats, often they are prepared very well and are surprisingly delicious. They pair perfectly with a cold beer at the end of the day.

What to Order at a Yakitori

Since Yakitoris are often very small shops they will often not have English menus but here are some items to look for on the menu. Negima (ねぎま) are pieces of chicken thigh with leeks, a great combo of greasy and crispy food. Tebasaki (手羽先) are chicken wings. Torikawa (とりかわ) is chicken skin, and although it might sound strange, it’s crispy and incredible. Tsukune (つくね) are meatballs made with chicken, egg, vegetables and spices. Reba (レバー) are chicken livers and are my favourite choice!

#5. Vending Machine Ramen Restaurants

Ramen can be found all over Japan, in many different establishments, but the most popular for those looking to save a few bucks are the “button” restaurants. At these restaurants, you need only walk up to a machine and press a button to receive your ramen. All the buttons are often accompanied by pictures and prices which help non-Japanese speakers. Put your money into the slot and click the option you’d like. Once armed with your ticket, give it to the chef inside and within minutes you’ll be served up a piping hot bowl of ramen. These bowls are often only $5-$10 depending on your toppings and definitely the best meals I ate in Japan.

Ramen flavours vary from region to region, and it is best to sample the local speciality. Shio or Salt Ramen is from Hokkaido and has a lighter flavour since the broth is made from chicken bones. Miso ramen is often served with corn, butter and veggies. Tonkotsu or Pork Broth Ramen is made from, you guessed it, pork bones! It’s a thick brother and a heavier meal, so it is served with a thinner type of noodle.

#6. Gyoza

Gyoza or Japanese pork dumplings are a cheap and quick food you can get almost anywhere in Japan. Some shops are entirely dedicated to them and serve nothing else but. 6 pieces of Gyoza will often run you about $2-$3. You can get them steamed or fried, and they are filled with minced pork, shredded cabbage, and shiitake mushrooms. 

Most dumpling restaurants offer either their own mixture of dipping sauce or a variety of condiments for you to make your own. These include soy sauce, vinegar, sesame oil, chilli oil, and garlic. Mix them up altogether to your liking. I like mine super spicy, so I amp up the chilli oil!

#7. Soft Serve Ice Cream

If you’re looking for a delicious dessert in the summertime to help cool you down head to tow you have to swing by one of the many soft serve ice cream shops. This is a cheap option that comes in a myriad of flavours like sesame, taro root, matcha and even Ramune (a lime soda flavour). While these will only cost a few dollars their bright and colourful appearance is sure to impress all your Instagram followers. The Japanese soft serve is extra creamy, super smooth and jam-packed with flavour!

#8. Conveyor Belt Sushi

Sushi might as well be the national food of Japan. You can get sushi for as little as a few dollars a piece or as much as a hundred. Some of the most impressive chefs in the world have come to Japan to serve this traditional dish, but even the simplest hole in the wall still has access to the freshest seafood in the country. Conveyor belt sushi restaurants are an inexpensive option for anyone wanting to save a few bucks and try a myriad of options.

Once seated in front of the rotating belt, you can watch all sorts of sushi pass by, each on a separate plate which correlates to a different price point. Some are as little as $1 for two pieces and the most expensive I’d see is $5 for the highest grade of tuna. Getting to see the food before you order it is an excellent opportunity to try different varieties you might not have sampled otherwise. 

Salmon nigiri with onions and mayo might seem odd, but the combination is surprisingly delicious. Tender tuna maki comes in all different cuts for you to sample. One of the best things about these restaurants is the free green tea on every table. Just add some matcha powder into your cup and use the spout at your seat which provides hot water on command. It’s the perfect addition to any meal. There are hundreds of different places to try but some chain which are pretty reliable are Genki Sushi and Sushi Ro.

#9. Depachika

Depachika is the name for the basement floors of department stores in Japan where you’ll find world-class eateries. Unlike shopping mall food courts in North America, these food emporiums serve up restaurant quality food at food court prices. It’s almost like a culinary theme park. You can find bento, dim sum, dessert parlors and more. The more high end the department store, the higher price of the food within. So if you’re looking for a bargain, check out Shinjuku Isetan or Shibuya Takashimaya. Some of these even have a rooftop picnic area to chow down on your orders in a stunning environment at the cost of FREE.

#10. Japanese Fast Food

Finally, just like the rest of the world, Japan has some cheap fast food. But there are some unique Japanese chains which are only available to this country and offer up some incredible meals. CoCo Curry House Ichibanya is one of my favourites. Japanese curry is unlike Thai or Indian curry. It is slightly sweet and very very spicy. My favourite combination is rice with the pork curry served with a pork katsu, enoki mushrooms, garlic and cheese. This dish will cost about $10 but is a super filling dinner option, and their adorable restaurants always have manga on hand for you to read while you eat, adding to the experience.

Japanese Fast Food Restaurant Chains

MOS Burger is a burger chain serving; rice burger buns, toppings such as hot meat sauce, teriyaki burgers with mayo and burgers with Gouda cheese and butter sauce. The burger usually cost between $5-$6.

Matsuya serves cheap Japanese breakfasts if you’re looking for something traditional to eat in the morning. These cost between $4-$6 and are a great way to fill up for a long day ahead.

Wendy’s acquired the brand “First Kitchen” a few years ago, and although it might be associated with Wendys, their menus are entirely different from their North American cousins. Their lemon chicken umami burger with shredded lettuce piled high is a favourite, for only $4. Be sure to sample their fries with a variety of toppings like Burnt Double Butter Soy Sauce, Truffle, Butter Chicken and Chicken Consomme. Served alongside a Blueberry Yogurt Float, the combo of hot and cold is perfection!

#11 Ekiben

Ekibens, or bento boxes sold at train stations, are a great way to eat cheaply in Japan. Not only are they convenient for travellers on the go, but they also offer a variety of options at affordable prices. These bento boxes are often made with fresh and locally sourced ingredients, allowing you to try authentic Japanese cuisine at a fraction of the cost of eating at a restaurant. Additionally, Ekibens often include a balanced meal of rice, protein, and vegetables, making them a healthy and filling option for budget-conscious travellers.

Japan offers a plethora of delicious and budget-friendly food options that are sure to satisfy any traveler’s palate. From street food to bento boxes, there are plenty of ways to taste the country’s diverse cuisine without breaking the bank. By taking advantage of local markets, trying out standing bars and food stalls, and opting for bento boxes, you can enjoy a tasty and cost-effective trip in Japan. Remember to be adventurous with your food choices and don’t be afraid to step outside of your comfort zone.

Happy Eating, Adventurers!

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