Beyond Sushi: Discovering Japan’s Culinary Story

Japanese cuisine, or washoku, is a vibrant and vast culinary tradition that emphasises simplicity, seasonality and aesthetics. From sushi to ramen, its food displays its history, flavour and evolution throughout the years. This article examines what makes Japanese cuisine so distinctive and beloved around the world.

The Land and Sea Behind the Flavour

The vast geographical factors and climatic conditions provide a variety of natural ingredients. Mountain regions also provide seasonal vegetables, such as pickles, as well as mushrooms. Meanwhile, the countryside is an ideal place for cultivating rice, a staple food ingredient grown on the Noto Peninsula and Shodoshima Island. Since the sea surrounds Japan, the water bodies provide tuna, shrimp, eel and fish, which are used to make sushi.

Seasonality on a plate: the concept of shun

Did you know that seasonality is called “shun”, meaning something at its peak freshness and taste? Menus in both homes and restaurants change with the seasons. In the summer, people enjoy cold noodles like somen and refreshing vegetables and hot pots(nabe), daikon radish and warm miso soup in the winter. Even plates and cutlery change with the seasons—cherry blossom-shaped dishes in spring, maple leaf garnishes in autumn—bringing beauty and balance to each meal.

How is everyday balance even maintained?

A typical Japanese dinner isn’t centred on just one dish. They have multiple dishes on their plates. There's a phrase in Japanese, “ichiju sansai”, meaning one soup, three dishes. emphasising balance and nutrition. Meals often include a main dish, two side dishes—such as rice and a vegetable—and a soup like miso.. Unlike the bold spices of Korean or Chinese dishes, Japanese food is known for its clean, subtle taste, reflecting its deep respect for simplicity and seasonality.

Sushi and ramen

Two dishes especially represent Japan’s global culinary influence: sushi and ramen. Sushi, once a way to preserve fish, is now an elegant art form. Ramen, adapted from Chinese noodles, has become a national favourite, with regional styles and even museums dedicated to it.

The modern twist

Having explored the foundations of traditional Japanese cuisine, let’s now look at its modern evolution, shaped by globalisation, convenience, and changing lifestyles.Modern Japanese food blends time-honoured customs with global influences. Dishes like ramen, gyoza, bento boxes, and even hamburgers have become part of everyday meals. Sushi conveyor belts and cafés offering matcha-flavoured treats add a playful, creative twist to classic tastes, showing how innovation continues to shape Japan’s food culture.

Japanese cuisine is more than just food—it’s a celebration of nature, time, and craft. Every bite tells a story, one season, and one flavour at a time.