Having a local on the ground in any given city authenticates the travel experience, making it richer and more relaxed. Nowhere is this more relevant than in Japan.
Japan’s cities are tightly packed labyrinths of little alleys and multi-story buildings that house tucked away businesses and homes.
The “we went through an unmarked door, down some stairs and through another unmarked door and into the best restaurant/bar/store” is common in Tokyo, and arguably more often the case than not. Finding these places, however, can be difficult even when you have an address, and almost impossible to stumble across if you don’t.
Japanese cultural values of mastery and excellence means that even simple street dishes like gyoza, yakitori (grilled chicken skewers) and riceballs, can be a sublime culinary experience delivered by true masters who have dedicated themselves to perfecting their very select offering.
Eating in Japan is a central part of the culture and whether it’s a quick cheap bowl of ramen, or a degustation at a fine dining restaurant, the quality of what’s available is second-to-none. Notably, Japan has as many Michelin-starred restaurants as the rest of the top ten countries combined!
The hospitality scene is also fast moving, with all but the best coming and going very quickly. There are certainly established restaurants that are well documented and worthy of your time, but the number of innovative new venues that are delivering really interesting world class food is enormous.
Both cities and rural areas offer up an excess of food options no matter what you want to do, and its people are almost universally helpful. In a case of too much choice and usually too little time, Umai Japan provides the local expertise to open your eyes to Japanese hospitality at its finest.
Umai Japan is the essential epicurean add-on to your Japan travel plan.
Use Umai to unlock Japan’s hidden potential so you eat how you want to eat, at a place suited to your aspirations and budget. Let Umai take you there and help create those moments that won’t be forgotten. Your food adventure awaits.
