FOOD AND STAY

Destinations   Bikes   Esprit de Tour  

Japan cuisine is not all about raw fish and sushi! There are many choices to make, not only tantalise your taste buds but the dishes are so skilfully prepared, your sight will also be delighted! Whilst staying in Ryokans, many will provide a traditional Japanese meal. Breakfast is usually a hot and cold buffet consisting of not only Japanese foods but you may also find some English breakfast foods like scrambled eggs, sausages and bacon. Dinner could be either a Japanese buffet or sit down meal, but whatever the menu is, know that your senses will be enchanted.

Some accommodation providers do not supply meals but a meal is not far away if you stroll the streets. For the budget conscious, whole meals are readily available at the many 7-11’s and Lawson’s supermarkets found on almost every corner. From fresh sandwiches to noodle boxes to soup, there is something for everyone and just because they are cheap does not mean they lack in taste! It would be very easy and tasty to eat your way through Japan on these meals.

Good Tips and Hints

Travelling along the highway, there are road side service areas catering for hungry travellers. The usual method is to check out the large colourful menu on the vending machine and decide what you would like to order. This can range from crumbed curry pork and rice to noodles to hot chips. Pay for your order using the vending machine that then dispenses a ticket. The ticket is then given to staff at the kitchen that prepare your dish while you take a seat.

In towns and cities, you will find restaurants, noodle bars and cafes offering a variety of foods. In major cities like Tokyo, you can find virtually any kind of dish from around the world at the highest class restaurants, or you can just do as the masses do and eat at reasonably priced eateries all over the place.

At the entrance of many restaurants there is a plastic display of the many dishes available. These are very helpful to non Japanese speaking people to select their meal and also usually display the price. Tipping is not expected in Japan, a polite thank you to the staff will go a long way!

Hot coffee can be dispensed from a vending machine or bought in cans from the supermarket. There is a wide range of flavours/brands to choose from, you’ll be sure to find one that suits your preference!

For more information on eating in Japan and the different dishes provided, check out this link:
http://www.japan-guide.com/e/e620.html