Category: FOOD

When you enter a Japanese convenience store, do not ignore the glass display case next to the cash register. This is where the magic happens. Unlike the stale roller-dogs found in US gas stations, Japanese “Hot Snacks” are freshly fried in-store throughout the day. The quality is so high that during Christmas, many Japanese people actually prefer konbini chicken over fancy restaurants.

View More Better Than KFC? Why You Must Try the “Hot Snacks” Next to the Register

You might be skeptical if a travel guide told you to eat lunch at a convenience store. In many countries, convenience store food is viewed as a quick, practical option rather than a gourmet experience. However, in Japan, the “Konbini Egg Sandwich” (Tamago Sando) is a culinary masterpiece. The late Anthony Bourdain famously described the one from Lawson as “unnatural, inexplicable, and delicious.” It has since become a must-eat ritual for chefs and foodies visiting Japan.

View More Why Anthony Bourdain Loved It: The Cult of the Japanese Convenience Store Egg Sandwich

In almost every country in the world, making noise while eating is considered bad manners. If you slurp your spaghetti in Italy, people will frown. However, walk into a Ramen or Soba shop in Tokyo, and you will hear a symphony of loud slurping sounds. In Japan, slurping noodles is not rude—it is actually the standard way to eat.

View More To Slurp or Not to Slurp? The Great Noodle Debate in Japan

You enjoyed a fantastic meal at a Japanese Izakaya (pub), but when you get the bill, you notice a charge of 300 to 500 yen per person that you didn’t order. Before you complain to the staff about a mistake, stop! This is likely the “Otoshi” (or Tsukidashi), a unique Japanese custom similar to a table charge or cover charge.

View More The “Otoshi” Surprise: Why Is There a Mystery Charge on My Bill?