Summer in Japan gets really hot, so refreshing seasonal foods become everyone’s favorite during this time ☀️🍧
Here are some must-try Japanese summer foods you definitely shouldn’t miss!
🍧 Kakigōri
Kakigōri is a classic Japanese summer dessert made with shaved ice, sweet syrup, milk, and fresh fruits. It’s super refreshing and perfect for cooling down during Japan’s hot summer days. You’ll find both simple festival-style versions and aesthetic café versions loaded with toppings. One of the ultimate summer foods you have to try in Japan.
🥗 Rei shabu
Rei-shabu is the cold version of traditional Japanese shabu-shabu, perfect for summer weather. Thin slices of pork are boiled, chilled, and served over fresh salad with creamy sesame sauce. The taste is light and refreshing while still being filling. It’s a popular comfort food in Japan during hot and humid days. Great for anyone who wants something tasty but not too heavy.
🐟 Ayu Sweetfish
Ayu sweetfish is a popular Japanese summer fish often grilled at festivals and street food stalls. The fish is usually skewered in a swimming shape to symbolize swimming against the river current. It has a savory, smoky flavor that feels extra delicious when eaten fresh off the grill. You’ll often spot it during summer matsuri season. Such a strong Japanese summer vibe!
🍜 Hiyashi Chuka
Hiyashi Chuka is a cold ramen dish served with refreshing toppings like cucumber, egg, ham, and seafood. The noodles are chilled and chewy, making them perfect for hot weather. It’s usually paired with sesame or soy based sauce that makes the whole dish taste even fresher. You can easily find it at restaurants and even Japanese convenience stores during summer. Simple, refreshing, and seriously addictive.
🎋 Nagashi Somen
Nagashi somen is one of the most unique summer food experiences in Japan. Cold somen noodles flow through a bamboo slide with running water, and you have to catch them using chopsticks. It’s super fun to do with friends or family during summer. After catching the noodles, you dip them into a savory sauce before eating. A fun activity and a refreshing meal at the same time!
🍵 Mizu Yokan
Mizu yokan is a traditional Japanese jelly dessert made from red bean paste and agar. The summer version contains more water, giving it a softer and lighter texture. It’s usually served chilled alongside matcha tea in traditional Japanese tea houses. The flavor is mildly sweet and super calming. Perfect as a refreshing dessert after walking around in the summer heat.
🍉 Japanese Watermelon
Japanese watermelon is famous for being extra sweet, juicy, and refreshing during summer. Besides eating it fresh, watermelon is also part of a popular summer game in Japan called suika-wari. Similar to a piñata game, people try to smash the watermelon while blindfolded. You’ll also find lots of watermelon-themed drinks and desserts everywhere during summer. Simple, refreshing, and super iconic in Japan!
🧊 Hiyayakko Tofu
Hiyayakko is a chilled tofu dish that’s simple but incredibly refreshing during hot weather. It’s usually topped with green onions, ginger, bonito flakes, and a little soy sauce. The flavor is light, clean, and perfect as a summer side dish. You can find it in many izakaya and traditional Japanese restaurants. Even though it’s simple, it’s surprisingly addictive!