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Japan

Experience Japan's exquisite culinary traditions from world-class sushi to comforting street food, with exceptional hygiene standards making it one of Asia's safest food destinations.

Region
East Asia
Cities
3+
Local Foods
18+
Country-level information is generated via automated research for general guidance. Food preparations, safety conditions, and cultural details vary significantly. This is not a substitute for official travel advisories or professional advice. Always verify locally. See full disclaimers for country guides.

Emergency Contacts

police

110

ambulance

119

Safety Tips

Vendor Selection

  • Choose restaurants with visible ticket machines or displays

    Japan's food vending systems often indicate established businesses with regulated food safety standards

  • Look for lines of local Japanese customers

    Popular establishments with local patrons typically maintain high quality and food safety standards

  • Seek specialty restaurants focusing on one cuisine type

    Specialty restaurants (like ramen-ya or sushi-ya) often perfect their craft and maintain higher quality control

Food Safety

  • Be cautious with raw foods if you have a sensitive stomach

    While Japan's raw fish standards are excellent, those with sensitive digestive systems might start with cooked options

  • Use provided hand sanitizer when entering restaurants

    Most establishments provide sanitizer; using it respects local hygiene customs and protects your health

  • Observe proper chopstick etiquette for shared dishes

    Use the opposite end of chopsticks or serving utensils for taking food from shared plates to prevent contamination

Cities

Local Foods

No foods found with the search criteria.

Seasonal Advice

summer

June, July, August

  • Try seasonal kakigori (shaved ice) from established vendors

    Summer in Japan brings delicious shaved ice treats; choose vendors with clean preparation areas and covered toppings

  • Be aware that humidity can affect food freshness

    Japan's humid summer accelerates food spoilage; eat at busy establishments with high turnover

winter

December, January, February

  • Enjoy hot street foods like oden and takoyaki

    Winter street foods are generally safe as they're kept at high temperatures in clean conditions

  • Try seasonal hot pot dishes at reputable restaurants

    Winter is hot pot (nabe) season in Japan; these dishes are typically prepared with fresh ingredients and cooked thoroughly

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