“What’s a traditional Japanese breakfast like?”

Very different from Western breakfast! It’s savory, healthy, and satisfying.

Traditional Components

“What’s included?”

Typical items:

• Rice – The base of every meal
• Miso soup – Warm and comforting
• Grilled fish – Usually salmon or mackerel
• Tamagoyaki – Sweet rolled omelet
• Pickles – Tsukemono varieties
• Natto – Fermented soybeans (try it!)
• Nori – Dried seaweed sheets
• Tofu – Sometimes included

Where to Try It

“Where can I get traditional breakfast?”

Best places:

• Ryokan (traditional inn) – Often included
• Business hotels with Japanese option
• Chains like Yayoi-ken or Ootoya
• Some cafes serve morning sets

Hotel Breakfast Buffets

“What about hotel buffets?”

Japanese hotels often have both:

• Western section (eggs, bread, bacon)
• Japanese section (rice, fish, miso)
• You can mix and match!

Natto – Should You Try It?

“What’s the deal with natto?”

Fermented soybeans:

• Very sticky and stringy
• Strong smell and taste
• Very healthy
• Many foreigners don’t like it
• But some love it!

Try it once – You might be surprised!

What Japanese People Actually Do

Most locals:

• Eat simpler breakfast at home (toast, rice)
• Full traditional breakfast is special
• Know natto is an acquired taste
• Appreciate ryokan breakfasts

Extra Travel Tips

1. Ryokan breakfast – Book a ryokan for the experience

2. Convenience store – Onigiri makes quick breakfast

3. Coffee shops – Morning sets are Western-style

4. Don’t skip rice – It’s filling and satisfying

5. Green tea – Often served with breakfast

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