Yakiniku, known as Japanese BBQ, is a delightful fusion of Korean and Japanese flavors, originating from Korean BBQ.

In Japan, before you eat a meal, you say “itadakimasu” to express appreciation for those who cooked the food.

A genuine world of their own, the local foods of Okinawa prefecture draw on a deep cultural and historical heritage, finding inspiration through Chinese and Southeast Asian influences.

If you think of alcohol and Japan, then the first thing that springs to mind is sake – but there are other alcoholic drinks too, one of which comes from the island of Okinawa! Awamori is an alcoholic drink which is also known as shimazakae, or island sake.

In Japan, every New Year we eat a variety of foods which form part of the Osechi Ryori (or New Year’s foods) meant to bring us good luck, health and happiness.

Toshikoshi soba (year-crossing soba noodles) is a traditional food that many Japanese eat every year on December 31.

Given that it’s made from sticky rice, just like the Japanese rice cake, and how similar the names are, it’s understandable to assume mochi and Okinawan muchi are the same.

Makishi Public Market is recognized as a go-to place to buy fresh seafood, meat, pickles, and souvenirs.

In case you have not noticed, karaage (Japanese-style fried food) is big in this country, especially chicken karaage.

Although the temperature stays relatively warm throughout the year, winter in Okinawa can be a little too chilly for beachgoers.