Best Cheap Food in Japan

Discover the Delicious and Affordable Eats of Japan

Japan is well-known for its exquisite cuisine and unique food culture. But did you know that you can enjoy delicious Japanese food without breaking the bank? If you’re looking for the best cheap food in Japan, this guide will take you on a culinary journey to some of the country’s most affordable and tasty eats. From street food to traditional dishes, there’s something for everyone in Japan, no matter your budget.

🍱 Sushi: The Classic Japanese Dish

Sushi is undoubtedly one of the most popular Japanese dishes around the world, and for good reason. Made from vinegared rice and fresh seafood, this dish is both delicious and healthy. While sushi can be quite expensive at high-end restaurants, you can find affordable sushi at conveyor belt sushi restaurants, also known as kaiten-zushi. Sushi rolls and nigiri plates start at around 100 yen per plate, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious travelers.

FAQ: What types of sushi are available at kaiten-zushi restaurants?

At kaiten-zushi restaurants, you can find a variety of sushi rolls and nigiri plates, including salmon, tuna, shrimp, eel, and more. Some restaurants even offer vegetarian options like cucumber and avocado rolls.

🍲 Ramen: The Ultimate Comfort Food

If you’re looking for a filling and flavorful meal, ramen is the perfect choice. This noodle soup dish is made with a savory broth, chewy noodles, and a variety of toppings like pork, egg, and vegetables. While ramen can be quite expensive at high-end restaurants, you can find affordable and delicious ramen at chain restaurants like Ichiran and Ippudo. A bowl of ramen typically costs between 600 and 1000 yen, making it an excellent choice for budget travelers.

FAQ: Is ramen spicy?

While some types of ramen can be spicy, not all ramen dishes are spicy. If you’re sensitive to spicy foods, you can ask for a less spicy version or choose a milder broth.

🍢 Takoyaki: A Must-Try Street Food

Takoyaki is a popular Japanese street food made with octopus, batter, and a variety of toppings like green onion and bonito flakes. These bite-sized balls are cooked on a special grill and served hot. You can find takoyaki stands in many cities in Japan, especially in the popular tourist areas like Osaka and Tokyo. A serving of takoyaki typically costs between 300 and 500 yen, making it an affordable and tasty snack.

FAQ: What does takoyaki taste like?

Takoyaki has a crispy exterior and a soft, doughy interior. The octopus filling is tender and flavorful, and the toppings add a savory and slightly sweet flavor.

🍛 Curry Rice: A Flavorful Meal for Any Budget

Curry rice is a popular Japanese dish made with curry sauce, rice, and a variety of toppings like chicken or vegetables. This dish has a rich and flavorful taste and is perfect for those looking for a filling meal. You can find affordable curry rice at chain restaurants like Coco Ichibanya and Go Go Curry. A plate of curry rice typically costs between 500 and 1000 yen, making it an excellent choice for budget travelers.

FAQ: Is Japanese curry spicy?

Japanese curry is generally not very spicy, but some restaurants offer different spice levels to cater to different tastes.

🍱 Bento Boxes: A Complete Meal On-the-Go

Bento boxes are a popular lunchtime option in Japan and are perfect for those on-the-go. These boxed meals typically include rice, a protein like chicken or fish, and a variety of side dishes like pickles and vegetables. You can find bento boxes at convenience stores like 7-Eleven and Lawson, as well as department store food halls. Prices range from 300 to 1000 yen depending on the contents of the box.

FAQ: Can you customize a bento box?

Some stores offer the option to customize your bento box, allowing you to choose your preferred protein and sides.

🍡 Wagashi: Traditional Japanese Sweets

If you have a sweet tooth, you’ll love wagashi, traditional Japanese sweets made from mochi, sweet bean paste, and other ingredients. These bite-sized sweets are often served with green tea and can be found at specialty shops and food markets. Prices vary depending on the type of wagashi, but most cost between 100 and 500 yen.

FAQ: What flavors are available for wagashi?

Wagashi comes in a wide variety of flavors, including matcha, red bean, sesame, and more. Some wagashi are seasonal, so be sure to try them while they’re available.

🍜 Udon: A Hearty and Comforting Noodle Dish

Udon is a type of thick noodle made from wheat flour and is often served in a hot broth with toppings like tempura and green onion. This dish is popular in many regions of Japan and is perfect for those looking for a filling and satisfying meal. You can find affordable udon at chain restaurants like Marugame Seimen and Hanamaru Udon. A bowl of udon typically costs between 300 and 800 yen.

FAQ: Is udon gluten-free?

Udon noodles are made from wheat flour and are not gluten-free. If you have a gluten intolerance or allergy, be sure to check with the restaurant before ordering.

🍙 Onigiri: A Convenient and Delicious Snack

Onigiri is a popular Japanese snack made with rice and a variety of fillings like tuna, salmon, and pickled plum. These triangle-shaped snacks are often wrapped in seaweed and are perfect for a quick and easy meal or snack. You can find onigiri at convenience stores and supermarkets for around 100 to 200 yen.

FAQ: What are the different types of onigiri fillings?

Onigiri fillings can vary widely, but some popular options include tuna, salmon, pickled plum, and seaweed.

🍢 Okonomiyaki: A Savory Pancake from Osaka

Okonomiyaki is a savory pancake made with cabbage, meat or seafood, and a variety of toppings like mayonnaise and bonito flakes. This dish is a specialty of Osaka but can be found throughout Japan. You can find affordable okonomiyaki at street food vendors and chain restaurants like Chibo Okonomiyaki. Prices range from 500 to 1000 yen.

FAQ: How is okonomiyaki cooked?

Okonomiyaki is cooked on a hot grill and often served with a spatula. The ingredients are mixed together and formed into a pancake shape before being cooked.

🍥 Taiyaki: A Sweet Fish-Shaped Treat

Taiyaki is a popular Japanese dessert made with pancake or waffle batter and filled with sweet bean paste. These fish-shaped treats are often sold at street food stalls and specialty shops. You can find taiyaki for around 100 to 300 yen.

FAQ: What other fillings are available for taiyaki?

While sweet bean paste is the most common filling for taiyaki, some shops offer other fillings like custard, chocolate, and fruit.

🍣 Kaiten-Zushi: Affordable and Tasty Sushi

Kaiten-zushi or conveyor belt sushi restaurants are a popular and affordable option for sushi lovers. These restaurants have a conveyor belt that brings different types of sushi to customers, who can choose what they want to eat. Prices start at around 100 yen per plate, making it an excellent choice for budget travelers.

FAQ: Are kaiten-zushi restaurants popular in Japan?

Yes, kaiten-zushi restaurants are a popular dining option in Japan, especially among young people and families.

🍢 Yakitori: Grilled Chicken Skewers

Yakitori is a popular Japanese dish made with grilled chicken skewers and a variety of seasonings like soy sauce and ginger. This dish is often served with a cold beer and is perfect for those looking for a casual and tasty meal. You can find affordable yakitori at street food vendors and izakaya bars. Prices range from 100 to 500 yen per skewer.

FAQ: What other types of meat are used for yakitori?

While chicken is the most common meat used for yakitori, other types of meat like beef and pork can also be used.

🍱 Donburi: A Filling Rice Bowl

Donburi is a Japanese rice bowl dish made with a variety of toppings like beef, chicken, and vegetables. This dish is often served with a raw or cooked egg on top and is perfect