B-class gourmet

Japan has foods that are classified as B-class gourmet. The “B” doesn’t mean they’re not delicious; rather, it refers to affordable yet tasty dishes showcasing local specialties. Each region in Japan has its own B-class gourmet offerings.

While Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, Nagoya, Sapporo, and Fukuoka are popular and well-known cities, there are many other towns, each with its own unique characteristics. If you have time during your visit to Japan, I encourage you to explore not only the major cities but also the regional towns. You’ll experience a different side of Japan that you might not have expected!

Returning to the topic, some people travel specifically to enjoy B-class gourmet dishes, and many local governments promote their towns through these dishes. For example, in Tokyo, “Monja-yaki” in Tsukishima is quite famous.

It’s likely that many people will encounter Monjayaki for the first time. It might look grotesque at first glance, but it’s addictive once you try it. It’s incredibly fun to eat little by little while drinking alcohol and chatting around the hotplate! Since many foreign travelers might not know how to cook it, it might be a good idea to ask the staff at the restaurant to cook it for you or watch a YouTube video on how to cook it before going!

In Shizuoka Prefecture, famous for Mt. Fuji, there is “Fujiyama Yakisoba.”

You can try Fujiyama Yakisoba in Fujiyama City, Shizuoka Prefecture. The nearest station is JR Fujiyama Station. There are many shops within walking distance from the station that serve Fujiyama Yakisoba. In Japan, “yakisoba” is seasoned with sauce. Noodle dishes seasoned with sauce are quite rare. The noodles in Fujiyama Yakisoba are chewier and firmer compared to regular yakisoba, providing a satisfying texture!

Apart from these, there are B-class gourmet dishes all over Japan. “Food” is one of the highlights of travel. I still vividly remember the “Khao Soi” I ate when I visited Chiang Mai in Thailand. Eating B-class gourmet dishes will surely leave a lasting memory for you as well!