Traveling to Japan & using Google or similar review sites to plan meals & attractions? How do you know what’s the real number? We’ll break it all down for you, so that you’ll be able to sort it all out and decipher what’s worth the wait and where to avoid.

“Meiwaku” broadly translates to causing trouble, annoyance or burden to others. This concept shapes social interactions throughout Japan. For international visitors, understanding meiwaku helps navigate social situations and shows respect for local customs.

Sukiyaki and shabu-shabu let you cook food right at your table, combining great ingredients, simplicity and a communal dining experience. But while they might look similar at a glance – thinly sliced beef, veggies, a hot pot of broth – the flavors, preparation & mood of the meals are quite different.

Social media, movies & television often paint an incomplete or inaccurate picture of what visitors actually experience in Japan. We examine ten common misconceptions that frequently surprise first-time visitors to this fascinating country.

For many visitors to Japan, breakfast presents one’s first real encounter with local cuisine. While international hotels reliably serve familiar Western options, experiencing a traditional Japanese breakfast offers unique insights into the country's food culture and daily life.

Getting ready to dine out in Japan? The restaurant scene here offers incredible food experiences. Still, ordering can sometimes be confusing for international visitors. Let’s look at the various types of restaurants and their ordering systems.