Ask chefs where they think has the most advanced food culture in the world, and many of them will point to Japan. With a focus on quality produce like nowhere else, a dedication to pure, clean flavours and some of the most interesting ingredients in existence, a life-changing meal is never too far away when you're in the country. Visiting places such as the Tsukiji Fish Market in Tokyo has become a bit of a foodie pilgrimage for those obsessed with quality, while hallowed gastronomic sushi restaurants serve bitesized morsels of unmatched clarity across the island. However, while sushi is the most well-known Japanese food, there's so much more to experience – ramen, for instance, has grown a cult-like following other dishes can only dream of, while kaiseki, izakaya and donburi are sub-categories of Japanese cooking which each focus on different dishes and cooking techniques.
Whether you're planning a food-focused trip to Japan and want to know more about what's on offer, or you fancy cooking more Japanese food at home, we've got all the guides, recipes and insights you need about one of the world's most exciting cuisines below.
