My First Time in Japan

From sushi and ramen to tempura and matcha desserts, Japan offers a gastronomic adventure like no other. Join me on a visual journey as I explore the rich culture, breathtaking sights, and mouthwatering food that make Japan a truly unique destination.

5/19/20242 min read

My first time in Japan was truly unforgettable. I had the pleasure of indulging in an exquisite dining experience at an all-you-can-eat A5 Wagyu restaurant in Shibuya, Tokyo. The melt-in-your-mouth texture and rich flavor of the beef left me in awe. Following that, I treated myself to a sensational sushi omakase in Ginza, Tokyo, where skilled chefs presented a delectable array of fresh and expertly crafted sushi. The attention to detail was remarkable. Eager to explore more culinary delights, I made my way to Kobe to savor their renowned tender Kobe steak. The meat was incredibly succulent, surpassing all expectations. Not only did I relish the exceptional food, but I also had the pleasure of enjoying their delightful drinks, including refreshing highballs, traditional sake, and the ever-popular chuhai. Japan truly captivated my taste buds with its exceptional cuisine and remarkable culinary experiences.

I had the opportunity to try out some of the country's popular chain restaurants, including Mister Donut and Yoshinoya. Mister Donut offers a wide variety of delicious donuts, ranging from classic flavors to unique Japanese-inspired creations. It was a delightful experience to indulge in these sweet treats, accompanied by a cup of hot tea or coffee. Yoshinoya, on the other hand, specializes in beef bowls, also known as gyudon. I enjoyed the savory and tender slices of beef served over a bed of steamed rice, topped with a flavorful sauce. The convenience and affordability of these chain restaurants allowed us to savor authentic Japanese cuisine on a budget. It was an enjoyable way to explore the local food scene and immerse ourselves in the culinary culture of Japan.

During my trip to Japan, I had the opportunity to compare the fast-food culture between the United States and Japan. As part of this comparison, I decided to try McDonald's in both countries, as well as other popular chain restaurants like Baskin-Robbins.

In Tokyo, the train rides were quite an experience, with the trains being incredibly packed, yet everyone maintaining order and discipline. Osaka, on the other hand, had a similar crowded atmosphere, but the people seemed more lively and energetic. Getting to the restaurants I had planned to visit required around 30 to 40 minutes of walking and taking trains. However, I found the places I visited to be very friendly, with some staff members even understanding and speaking some English. Additionally, many of the restaurants had a "point and show" menu system, where customers could simply point at pictures to place their orders.