Japanese Street Food: 20 Delicious Items to Try

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Explore the delicious and diverse world of Japanese street food with our guide to 20 must-try dishes, from savory takoyaki to sweet taiyaki and shaved ice desserts. Perfect for food lovers and travelers alike!

Written by

Alice

Japanese street food offers a delectable array of flavors and dishes that are loved by locals and visitors alike. From savory bites to sweet treats, each dish showcases Japan’s rich culinary heritage and the vibrant local street culture.

Read on to learn 20 must-try, mouthwatering Japanese street food items!

Street Food Items to Try in Japan

1. Takoyaki
2. Okonomiyaki
3. Yakitori: Grilled Chicken
4. Taiyaki: Fish-shaped Pastries
5. Karaage: Japanese-style Fried Chicken
6. Yakisoba: Stir-fried Noodles
7. Imagawayaki Pastries
8. Onigiri: Rice Balls
9. Kakigori: Shaved Ice Desserts
10. Dango: Sweet Dumplings
11. Mitarashi Dango
12. Nikuman: Steamed Buns
13. Oden
14. Oyaki
15. Melon Pan
16. Crepes
17. Choco-Banana
18. Amezaiku Candy
19. Amazake
20. Yaki-imo: Roasted Sweet Potatoes

1. Takoyaki

Japanese Street Food: 20 Delicious Items to Try

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Takoyaki are savory snacks made of wheat flour-based batter filled with octopus pieces, pickled ginger, and green onion. These bite-sized balls are cooked in a special molded pan until crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside.

They are topped with takoyaki sauce, mayonnaise, bonito flakes, and sometimes seaweed powder.

You can find takoyaki at food stalls during festivals all around Japan, especially in Osaka’s Dotonbori area, which is renowned for its many takoyaki shops.

2. Okonomiyaki

Okonomiyaki is a mouthwatering savory pancake made with a batter of flour, eggs, and shredded cabbage, and packed with delicious ingredients like seafood, meat, or vegetables. Once cooked to crispy perfection, it's generously topped with okonomiyaki sauce, creamy mayonnaise, dried seaweed, and bonito flakes.

The name "okonomiyaki" means "grill what you like," inviting you to mix in your favorite ingredients. This dish is especially famous in Osaka and Hiroshima, where each region boasts its own tasty twist on this irresistible treat.

3. Yakitori: Grilled Chicken

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Yakitori consists of skewered, bite-sized pieces of chicken, grilled to perfection; often seasoned with tare sauce and served with salt or lemon. The chicken can be seasoned with salt (shio) or a savory sauce (tare) made from soy sauce, mirin, sake, and sugar.

Different parts of the chicken, such as thigh, breast, and even organs, can be used. Yakitori is a popular item at izakayas (Japanese pubs) and street food stalls, especially during festivals and nighttime markets.

4. Taiyaki

Japanese Street Food: A Culinary Delight

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Taiyaki are fish-shaped pastries traditionally filled with sweet red bean paste, though custard, chocolate, and cheese are also popular fillings. The batter, similar to pancake or waffle batter, is poured into a fish-shaped mold with the filling added in the center, and then cooked until golden brown.

Taiyaki is a common sight at street vendors and festivals, offering a delightful treat that is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.

5. Karaage Fried Chicken

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Karaage is a delectable Japanese fried chicken, loved for its juicy interior and crispy exterior. Each piece of chicken is marinated in a savory mix of soy sauce, sake, ginger, and garlic, then coated in flour or potato starch before being deep-fried to golden perfection.

This irresistible treat is a staple at street food stalls, izakayas, and convenience stores. Often served with a wedge of lemon, karaage is a delicious snack or a delightful addition to any meal.

6. Yakisoba: Stir-fried Noodles

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Yakisoba is a beloved stir-fried noodle dish featuring wheat noodles, vegetables, and usually pork or chicken. It's seasoned with a tangy yakisoba sauce, reminiscent of Worcestershire sauce, and topped with pickled ginger, seaweed flakes, and bonito flakes.

You'll find yakisoba sizzling on large griddles at festivals and street food stalls, served hot and ready to satisfy your cravings.

7. Imagawayaki Pastries

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Imagawayaki are delightful round, thick pancakes filled with sweet treasures like red bean paste, custard, or chocolate. Batter is poured into circular molds, filled with the chosen filling, and cooked to a golden brown perfection.

This treat is a festival favorite and street vendor staple, cherished for its soft, warm texture and the delightful surprise of its sweet fillings.

8. Onigiri

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Onigiri, also known as rice balls, are a quintessential Japanese snack. They feature seasoned rice shaped into triangles or cylinders and are often wrapped in nori (seaweed).

Onigiri can be filled with a variety of delicious ingredients such as salmon, pickled plum (umeboshi), tuna with mayonnaise, or kombu (seaweed). You'll find them widely available at convenience stores and street food stalls, offering a convenient and satisfying bite.

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9. Kakigori: Shave Ice Desserts

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Kakigori is a refreshing treat made from finely shaved ice, topped with flavored syrups like strawberry, melon, or matcha, and often drizzled with condensed milk. This dessert is particularly popular during the hot summer months and can be found at summer festivals.

Kakigori is loved for its light, fluffy texture and the burst of flavor from the sweet syrups. Its availability at summer festivals ensures there's always a long queue of people eager to enjoy this famous and refreshing treat.

10. Dango: Sweet Dumplings

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Dango are chewy rice dumplings skewered in groups of three to five. Made from rice flour, they boast a soft, sticky texture that's irresistible.

Dango can be coated in various sauces, like sweet soy sauce (mitarashi), red bean paste, or sesame, offering a variety of flavors to suit every palate. Found at festivals and street vendors, they're cherished for their straightforward yet satisfying flavor.

11. Mitarashi Dango

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Mitarashi Dango are a specific type of dango skewered and coated in a delectable sweet soy sauce glaze. This glaze imparts a savory and subtly sweet flavor to the dumplings.

Often enjoyed at street food stalls and highly sought after during festivals, Mitarashi Dango delights with its chewy texture complemented by the rich, sweet-savory sauce, making it a beloved and irresistible snack.

12. Nikuman: Steamed Buns

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Nikuman are steamed buns filled with savory ingredients, typically seasoned ground pork. The soft, fluffy dough pairs perfectly with the juicy and flavorful filling.

Enjoyed hot during colder months, they're a staple at convenience stores and street food stalls. These comforting buns offer a hearty and delicious snack that's sure to hit the spot.

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13. Oden

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Oden is a hearty hot pot dish featuring a medley of ingredients such as fish cakes, tofu, daikon radish, konjac, and boiled eggs, all simmered in a light, soy-flavored dashi broth.

This beloved dish is particularly popular during the winter months and can be savored at convenience stores, street vendors, and oden specialty shops. Oden is cherished for its warm, comforting flavors and the delightful variety of ingredients it brings together.

14. Oyaki

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Oyaki are stuffed buns made from wheat or buckwheat flour, filled with a variety of ingredients such as vegetables, mushrooms, or sweet fillings like red bean paste.

These buns are usually grilled or steamed and are particularly renowned in Nagano Prefecture. You can find oyaki at local markets and street food stalls, where they serve as a delightful and portable snack that highlights the distinct flavors of the region.

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15. Melon Pan

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Melon Pan is a sweet bread with a crisp, cookie-like crust on top, resembling the appearance of a melon. Despite its name, it typically doesn't contain melon flavor.

The sugary, crunchy exterior and soft, fluffy interior make it a beloved treat that can be enjoyed throughout the day. Whether as a snack, dessert, or paired with a cup of coffee for breakfast or lunch, Melon Pan is widely available at bakeries and street vendors across Japan, cherished for its nostalgic and comforting taste.

16. Crepes

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In Tokyo's Harajuku area, Japanese crepes are a must-try street food. These thin, rolled pancakes are packed with a mouthwatering mix of fillings like creamy whipped cream, ice cream, fresh fruits, and decadent chocolate.

They're perfect for satisfying any sweet tooth while exploring the lively streets or grabbing a quick snack. Join the locals and tourists who can't resist these delicious crepes—a tasty treat that's sure to add a touch of sweetness to your day in Harajuku.

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17. Choco-Banana

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Choco-Banana is a beloved treat commonly found at temple and shrine festivals. It features bananas dipped in chocolate and often adorned with colorful sprinkles, making them not only delicious but also cute in pictures.

This simple yet delightful combination of sweet, creamy banana and rich chocolate makes it a popular choice, particularly among children enjoying the festive atmosphere.

18. Amezaiku Candy

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Amezaiku is a traditional Japanese candy craft where artisans skillfully shape a malleable, syrup-like candy into intricate designs. These candies often depict animals, flowers, or other elaborate motifs, sometimes hand-painted with food coloring.

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Found at festivals and specialty shops, amezaiku delights both as a delicious treat and a mesmerizing work of art, showcasing the craftsmanship and creativity of Japanese confectionery.

19. Amazake

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Amazake is a traditional Japanese sweet, low-alcohol or non-alcoholic fermented rice drink. It's enjoyed chilled to beat the summer heat or hot to ward off winter chill. This creamy beverage offers a gentle sweetness that's comforting and satisfying.

Found at street vendors and specialty shops, amazake is cherished for its versatility and soothing qualities, making it a delightful choice year-round in Japan's vibrant culinary culture.

20. Yaki-imo

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Yaki-imo are roasted sweet potatoes, a quintessential autumn and winter snack sold by trucks or street vendors. Slow-roasted to perfection, they develop a tender texture and caramelized sweetness that's both natural and comforting.

Yaki-imo holds a nostalgic charm for many Japanese, recalling chilly evenings and cozy street scenes filled with the aroma of roasting potatoes.

FAQ

What is a popular street food in Japan?

A popular street food in Japan is takoyaki. Takoyaki are delicious octopus balls made from a savory batter filled with diced or whole baby octopus, pickled ginger, and green onions, cooked in special takoyaki pans. These savory snacks are typically topped with takoyaki sauce (similar to Worcestershire sauce), mayonnaise, bonito flakes, and dried seaweed powder. Takoyaki stalls are common at festivals, street food markets, and entertainment areas throughout Japan, offering a tasty and satisfying snack that is beloved by locals and visitors alike for its crispy exterior and creamy interior filled with flavorful ingredients.

What are 5 famous Japanese foods?

Japan's culinary heritage is rich with iconic dishes that have captivated food enthusiasts worldwide. Sushi, featuring vinegared rice paired with a variety of toppings, is synonymous with Japanese cuisine and has become a global sensation. Ramen, a comforting noodle soup, offers a diverse range of flavors and styles across Japan. Tempura delights with its crispy fried seafood and vegetables, while tonkatsu, a breaded pork cutlet, satisfies with its savory crunch. Matcha, a powdered green tea, not only serves as a soothing beverage but also stars in a myriad of desserts, reflecting Japan's meticulous attention to detail, quality ingredients, and exquisite flavors that have made its culinary offerings highly acclaimed and celebrated globally.

What is the name of the food street in Tokyo?

One of the most famous food streets in Tokyo known for its bustling atmosphere and diverse culinary offerings is Ameya Yokocho, also referred to as Ameyoko. This vibrant street market is located in the Ueno district of Tokyo and is renowned for its wide array of shops, stalls, and vendors selling all kinds of goods, including fresh produce, seafood, snacks, sweets, clothing, and more. Ameya Yokocho is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, offering a taste of Tokyo's food culture and bustling street market ambiance.

What is Japan's national dish?

Japan does not have an official national dish, but one iconic Japanese dish that holds significant cultural importance and is often considered a symbol of Japanese cuisine is sushi.
Sushi consists of vinegared rice served with a variety of ingredients like raw fish (sashimi), seafood, vegetables, and sometimes egg, all rolled in nori seaweed or formed into bite-sized pieces. This traditional dish showcases Japan's culinary craftsmanship, emphasis on fresh, high-quality ingredients, and meticulous presentation, making it a standout representative of Japanese culinary artistry enjoyed by people worldwide.

What foods are only in Japan?

Japan's culinary repertoire boasts a distinctive array of foods that are exclusive to its rich food culture. From the delicate art of serving fugu, the potentially lethal pufferfish expertly prepared as a delicacy, to the unparalleled quality of wagyu beef, renowned for its marbling and tenderness, Japan's offerings are diverse and unique. Unagi, or freshwater eel, grilled to perfection and glazed with a sweet sauce, and natto, the fermented soybean staple with its acquired taste, showcase the country's culinary diversity. Okonomiyaki, a savory pancake customizable with various ingredients, and the chewy delight of mochi rice cakes, highlight the Japanese penchant for balance in taste and texture. Matcha, the vibrant green powdered tea, not only as a beverage but featured in diverse sweets, embodies the artistry and innovation that define Japan's gastronomic heritage, making its foods unmistakably distinct and culturally significant.

Enjoy Japan's Street Food!

Japanese street food is an essential and vibrant part of the country's culinary scene, offering a rich variety of flavors, textures, and aromas that enchant the senses.

From the savory delights of takoyaki and okonomiyaki to the sweet indulgences like taiyaki and dango, these street foods showcase Japan's diverse gastronomic traditions.

Whether you're wandering through a lively festival, exploring local markets, or grabbing a quick bite from a convenience store, the experience of Japanese street food promises to be unforgettable. So, on your next trip to Japan, immerse yourself in this culinary adventure and relish the delightful flavors of Japanese street food!

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Main image by Pixta

Written by

Alice

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