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#03

Cozy Up with These Must-Try Winter Foods in Japan

by Rachel Anne

Winter in Japan isn’t just about breathtaking snow-covered landscapes and twinkling lights—it’s also the perfect season to indulge in warm, soul-soothing food! When the temperature drops, nothing beats a steaming bowl of something delicious to keep you cozy. Whether you're visiting Japan this winter or just looking for some food inspo, here are some must-try winter dishes that will warm you up from the inside out.

Hot Pots & Soups

A. Nabe (Hot Pot) – The Ultimate Winter Comfort Food

Nabe is the ultimate winter go-to in Japan! Imagine a big pot of simmering broth, loaded with meat, seafood, veggies, and tofu—pure bliss. Here are some delicious types you should try :

Sukiyaki – Thinly sliced beef, tofu, and veggies cooked in a sweet soy sauce broth. Dip it in raw egg for extra yumminess!
Shabu-Shabu – Swish-swish thin slices of meat in a bubbling broth, then dip them in tasty sauces.
Chanko Nabe – A protein-packed hot pot that sumo wrestlers love to eat—perfect if you're extra hungry!

Where to Try :

Ningyocho Imahan (Sukiyaki & Shabu-Shabu) – Famous for its high-quality beef. (Ningyocho, Tokyo)
Yoshiba (Chanko Nabe) – A sumo-themed restaurant serving authentic chanko nabe. (Ryogoku, Tokyo)

B. Oden – The Street Food Favorite

Oden is a Japanese winter staple—think daikon radish, boiled eggs, fish cakes, and other goodies swimming in a light soy-based broth. You can find it at street stalls and even convenience stores!

Where to Try :

Otafuku – One of Tokyo’s oldest oden restaurants. (Asakusa, Tokyo)
Konakara – A cozy spot known for its flavorful oden broth. (Shibuya, Tokyo)

2. Steamed & Grilled Winter Treats

A. Nikuman – Steamed Pork Buns

These fluffy buns are little pillows of happiness! Filled with juicy pork and veggies, nikuman is the perfect handheld snack to warm you up on a chilly day.

Where to Try :

551 Horai (Tokyo Branch) – A popular chain for delicious steamed pork buns. (Tokyo Station)
Ginza Kagari – Famous for both ramen and their flavorful nikuman. (Ginza, Tokyo)

B. Yakiimo (Roasted Sweet Potato)

Simple but amazing! Yakiimo is a naturally sweet roasted Japanese sweet potato, and you’ll often hear vendors calling out as they sell these steaming hot treats on the streets.

Where to Try :

Yaki Imo Stand at Ameyoko Market – Freshly roasted sweet potatoes. (Ueno, Tokyo)
Funawa Sweet Potato Café – A café specializing in Japanese sweet potatoes. (Asakusa, Tokyo)

3. Hearty Rice & Noodle Dishes

A. Zosui (Japanese Rice Porridge)

If you love comfort food, zosui is a must-try! This warm, savory rice porridge is made with dashi broth and topped with egg, mushrooms, and sometimes chicken--it’s like a warm hug in a bowl.

Where to Try :

Toritsune Shizendo – Known for their comforting zosui and oyakodon. (Akihabara, Tokyo)

B. Ramen – The Ultimate Comfort Noodle

Ramen is a winter essential! Whether you like it rich and creamy or light and flavorful, there’s a ramen for everyone:

Miso Ramen – A specialty from Hokkaido with a thick, hearty miso-based broth.
Tonkotsu Ramen – Creamy, pork-bone broth perfection from Kyushu.
Shoyu Ramen – A classic soy sauce-based broth with deep umami flavors.

Where to Try :

Afuri – Famous for its yuzu shoyu ramen, a light and refreshing option. (Shinjuku, Tokyo)
Santouka – A great place for miso ramen with a creamy, porky broth. (Ikebukuro, Tokyo)

4. Seasonal Winter Seafood

Crab (Kani) – The King of Winter Seafood

Winter is crab season in Japan, and it’s the best time to enjoy this fresh delicacy! Here are some ways to eat it :

Kani Nabe (Crab Hot Pot) – Fresh crab legs cooked in a steaming hot pot--so delicious!
Grilled Crab – A simple yet luxurious treat, often served at seafood markets.

Where to Try :

Kani Doraku – One of the most famous crab restaurants in Japan. (Ginza, Tokyo)
Tsukiji Outer Market – Great for grilled crab legs and other fresh seafood. (Tsukiji, Tokyo)

Japanese winter food is all about warmth, comfort, and incredible flavors. Whether it’s a bubbling hot pot, a steaming bowl of ramen, or a roasted sweet potato in hand, these seasonal delights will make your winter feel extra special. If you get the chance to visit Japan in the colder months, be sure to try these dishes!

Posted 06 February 2025