Too hot to feast? Cool Japanese Foods for Summer
Summer in Japan is hot and humid, and it can really take a toll on your appetite. The Japanese have come up with some summertime foods and frankly, we can’t have enough!
1. 冷やし中華 [hiyashichuka]: Chinese-style chilled noodle
Ramen-style egg noodle is served chilled with a variety of toppings such as thinly sliced omelette, shredded cucumber, ham, tomato, seaweed and pork slices. It is usually served with soy and vinegar sauce or creamy sesame sauce. Many ramen restaurants roll out this menu at the beginning of summer.
2. 流しそうめん [nagasi somen]: somen noodle on stream
Somen is thin and white flour noodle enjoyed in Japan. Nagashi somen is a special method of serving somen — chilled somen noodles travel down a tube made of bamboo and you have to catch it to eat! Think of it like a water slide for the somen. Nagashi somen is not only refreshing and light to eat, but it can cool you down visually as well.
3. うな重 [unaju]: eel on rice
Grilled eel is usually served with thick and sweet soy-based sauce, placed on a bed of rice. This nutritious and delicious meal is served most commonly on Doyo No Ushinohi Saturday (a date on a traditional calendar that marks the beginning of summer), which usually falls in mid to late July.
Hungry yet? When you’re travelling and spending your days on your foot, it’s important to eat well and stay fueled. Don’t forget to drink a lot of water too! Want to learn more Japanese culture? Make sure you’ve downloaded our Japanese app.

