Do I Need to Tip in Japan?
A local explains Japan's no-tipping culture and what to expect.
83 articles
A local explains Japan's no-tipping culture and what to expect.
A local explains why doggy bags are not common in Japan.
A local recommends which ramen shops to try at Tokyo Ramen Street.
A local explains that forks and spoons are available at most restaurants.
A local recommends the best cheesecake spots in Tokyo.
A local explains kissaten culture and recommends Tokyo's best coffee shops.
A local explains Ichiran's children's menu and free kids ramen policy.
A local compares high-end sushi restaurants with conveyor belt sushi.
A local explains fugu (pufferfish) safety and recommends top restaurants in Ginza.
A local's guide to Japanese whisky. What to try and where to buy.
A local's guide to Japanese beer. Brands, styles, and where to drink.
A local explains okonomiyaki. Osaka vs Hiroshima style and how to eat it.
A local explains Japanese breakfast. What to expect at ryokans and hotels.
A local explains yakiniku. How to order, cook, and enjoy Japanese BBQ.
A local explains tempura. What to order, how to eat, and where to try it.
A local recommends budget-friendly shabu shabu and sukiyaki spots near Ueno and Asakusa.
A local explains gyudon culture. Cheap, fast, and delicious comfort food.
A local explains booking restaurants. Apps, phone calls, and getting help.
A local's guide to Japanese supermarkets. What to buy and how they work.
A local explains Japanese curry culture. Different from Indian curry and where to try it.
A local explains Japanese noodles. When to eat which and how to enjoy them.
A local explains Japan's unique coffee scene. From kissaten to third wave cafes.
A local's guide to matcha cafes. From traditional to Instagram-worthy spots.
A local's guide to Japan's amazing food halls. What to buy and how to explore.
A local explains sushi etiquette. Hands vs chopsticks, soy sauce tips, and more.
A local explains izakaya culture. What to order, how to order, and drinking tips.
A local's honest guide for vegetarians. Challenges, solutions, and where to eat.
A local explains ramen styles. From Tonkotsu to Shoyu, find your favorite.
A local explains why konbini food is amazing. What to try and tips for eating cheap.
A local's guide to kaiseki restaurants. From luxury to affordable options.
A local's guide to ordering at food stalls. Easy tips for non-Japanese speakers.
A local compares takoyaki in both cities. The differences and where to try it.
A local's guide to breakfast spots. From traditional to trendy, budget to special.
A local's honest take on wagashi. The secret to enjoying them and where to try the best ones.
A local's guide to eating pufferfish safely. Famous restaurants and why you shouldn't worry.
A local's guide to coffee culture in Japan. Kissaten vs modern cafes and where to find good espresso.
A local's honest answer about doggy bags in Japan. Why most restaurants don't allow it and what to do instead.
Izakaya are Japan's beloved pubs where locals gather to eat, drink, and socialize. Here's your complete guide to enjoying an authentic izakaya experience!
Japan's convenience stores (konbini) offer surprisingly delicious food. Here's what to try at 7-Eleven, Lawson, and FamilyMart - from onigiri to fried chicken!
A local's guide to ordering frozen fruit smoothies at Japanese convenience stores. Learn the payment process, best flavors, and insider tips!
A local's guide to Tokyo's best coffee shops. From traditional kissaten to trendy third-wave cafes, discover where to find the perfect cup.
A local's honest guide to finding great restaurants in Japan. From budget eats to high-end dining, with specific recommendations by cuisine type.
A local's guide to booking group dinners in Tokyo. Restaurant recommendations, booking tips, and how to handle large party logistics.
A local's honest guide to izakaya culture in Japan. What to expect with drinking, smoking, and whether non-drinkers can still enjoy the experience.
Here's what I've learned from living in Tokyo and actually trying a few dinner cruises! In Japan, we don't really have a big tradition of formal dinner...
Discover low-carb dining in Japan with tips like ordering less rice at sushi spots, enjoying sashimi, grilled dishes, and fresh salad bowls.
Discover the best ramen in Tokyo Station! Visit Ramen Street for unique styles like shoyu and tsukemen at SORANOIRO and ROKURINSHA.
Ichiran offers a kid-friendly ramen experience with half-sized portions for picky eaters, free meals for kids, and customizable flavors.
Discover tips for ordering street food in Japan as a non-Japanese speaker. Learn simple phrases, smart apps, and cultural insights to enjoy local delights stress-free!
Discover the art of kaiseki dining in Japan! Explore casual spots like Zojirushi Shokudo and the high-end experience at RyuGin. Enjoy multiple mini dishes that reflect seasonal flavors and meticulous presentation!
Discover unique squid ink ice cream and adventurous flavors like black sesame in Shinjuku. Explore this culinary gem for a memorable treat!
Discover the unique differences between Osaka and Tokyo's takoyaki! From crispy snacks in Tokyo to the rich, authentic experience in Osaka, taste the culture!
Discover whether to tip waitstaff in Japan. Learn about Japanese service culture and the proper ways to show appreciation without gratuities.
Discover the best ramen shops at Tokyo Station's Ramen Street, from shoyu to tsukemen. Explore unique flavors that delight all palates!
Discover unique breakfast options in Japan! From traditional miso sets to fluffy pancakes, explore the country's tasty morning delights.
Is Okinawa worth visiting in September despite typhoon season? Learn tips on planning, weather, activities, and staying safe during your trip.
A local answers: What's your favorite thing to eat/drink from 7/11?
Looking for great espresso in Japan? Discover the best coffee spots in Tokyo, Kyoto, Nara, and Kobe, insights into Japan’s unique café culture.
Izakayas are casual Japanese pubs where drinking alcohol and smoking are common, offering a lively social atmosphere with shared food and drinks.
Discover what you can’t bring into Tokyo Disneyland: no cans, glass, alcohol, large luggage, or drones. Light snacks, strollers, and refillable bottles allowed. Stay informed!
Looking for the best rooftop bars in Tokyo? Enjoy stunning city views & great cocktails at The Gate Hotel Asakusa, Bvlgari Bar, The Roof Shibuya Sky & more!
A local answers: Can we request a spoon and fork instead of chopsticks at restaurants?
Wondering if high-end sushi is worth the price? Try luxury sushi, casual conveyor sushi, and mid-range gourmet spots like Nemuro Hanamaru 🍣
A local answers: Recommend a place in Tokyo for delicious tempura, ramen, and yakiniku.
Discover Tokyo's culinary gems: savor premium yakiniku at Bakuro Ichidai Ginza, fresh grilled fish at Tsukiji Yaki Uo Ishikawa, and more!
Discover Tokyo’s best local coffee spots! From cozy hidden gems to upscale cafes, enjoy authentic, fresh, high-quality brews loved by locals.
Looking for affordable shabu-shabu or sukiyaki in Ueno or Asakusa? Try Hachinoki or Yansando—high quality, delicious, and under ¥2,000 at lunch!
Learn how to easily get from Narita or Haneda Airport to Omiya Station without speaking Japanese. Tips on trains, buses, IC cards & apps.
Wondering if Yanaka Ginza restaurants are open on Sundays? Learn about typical opening hours and enjoy this charming neighborhood.
Discover Kyoto's culinary gems near Kyoto Tower! Savor matcha parfaits, delicious ramen, and yakiniku, then shop local treasures nearby.
Most restaurants in Japan provide forks and spoons if you ask. Sushi can be eaten by hand, and convenience stores sell disposable cutlery. Just ask politely, and you’ll be fine!
Wondering where to get great udon in Shibuya? This guide compares popular spots—TsuruTonTan for atmosphere, Tokyo Mentsu-dan for authenticity, and quick options like Tenya and Miyatake Sanuki Udon. Plus, learn some fun Japanese udon trivia and explore regional styles!
Looking for affordable shabu-shabu or sukiyaki in Ueno or Asakusa? Try Hachinoki or Yansando—high quality, delicious, and under ¥2,000 at lunch!
Discover Tokyo’s best cakes! From classic shortcakes at Fujiya to luxury pastries at crèam fraise génoise, here’s your full dessert guide.
Looking for the best rooftop bars in Tokyo? Enjoy stunning city views & great cocktails at The Gate Hotel Asakusa, Bvlgari Bar, The Roof Shibuya Sky & more!
Wondering if high-end sushi is worth the price? Try luxury sushi, casual conveyor sushi, and mid-range gourmet spots like Nemuro Hanamaru 🍣
Looking for the best fugu in Tokyo? Discover safe, top-rated pufferfish restaurants in Ginza, including Fukuji, Soukawa, Naruto, and Genpin Fugu!
Discover the best tempura, ramen, and yakiniku in Tokyo! From budget-friendly spots to premium dining, find the perfect place for your taste and budget.
Finding good espresso in Tokyo, Kyoto, Nara, and Kobe is easy, but quality varies by city. Explore top coffee shops and learn about Japan’s unique café culture.
Looking for the best Japanese cheesecake in Tokyo? Try Mr. Cheesecake at pop-up events, LeTAO’s Double Fromage, or a classic Japanese strawberry shortcake. These desserts are light, creamy, and a must-try in Tokyo!
Taking home leftovers from a restaurant in Japan is uncommon due to hygiene and food safety concerns. Most places do not allow it, and if they do, you must ask for permission. Takeout containers may not be provided, bringing your own is an option.
Experiencing both high-end and budget sushi in Japan is a must for sushi lovers. Luxury sushi offers premium ingredients like uni and otoro, while conveyor belt chains like Sushiro provide fun and affordability. Trying both is the best way to enjoy the full spectrum of sushi culture.
A local's guide to the best ramen at Tokyo Station's famous Ramen Street.