Street Food Wonders: Beyond Famous Markets
Japan’s culinary tapestry is woven with an enticing array of budget-friendly street foods and sweets, offering a diverse range of flavors to satisfy various tastes and cultural curiosities. From iconic favorites like ramen and takoyaki to delightful treats such as taiyaki and Hida Beef specialties, the options seem boundless. While renowned markets like Tokyo’s Tsukiji, Kyoto’s Nishiki, and Osaka’s Kuromon remain essential, hidden gems like Takayama Sanmachi Street, Omicho Market in Kanazawa, Okage Yokocho in Mie, and Hakodate Asaichi in Hokkaido offer equally delectable off-the-beaten-path street food experiences. Here’s a glimpse into these must-visit locales to savor Japan’s rich street food offerings on the go.
Takayama Sanmachi Street (Gifu)
Indulge in the vibrancy of Takayama’s Historical District, where Sanmachi-dori invites exploration of Edo-era architecture and enduring shops.
Must-try: Hida Beef specialties, including Hida Beef Sushi and Hida Beef Kushi-yaki, and bite-sized taiyaki with unique fillings.
Omicho Market (Ishikawa)
Celebrate the 300-year legacy of Kanazawa’s Omicho Market, a street food haven fueled by fresh seafood deliveries from the Sea of Japan.
Explore 170 stalls for a diverse array of street delicacies, from fresh fish and succulent meats to zesty pickles and tempting sweets.
Okage Yokocho (Mie)
Immerse yourself in the nostalgic charm of Okage Yokocho in Oharaimachi, a kilometer-long street featuring Edo and Meiji architecture.
Savor delicacies such as Akafuku mochi, Mitarashi-dango rice dumplings, and Matsusaka beef specialties.
Hakodate Asaichi (Hokkaido)
Experience the gastronomic hub of Hakodate at the Morning Market, offering delights like seafood donburi and Hakodate kaisendon.
Engage in squid fishing, witness on-site preparation, and savor locally sourced soft-serve ice cream showcasing Hokkaido’s dairy excellence.
