100 Japanese Matsuri Festival Foods to Try This Year

Japanese festivals, known as matsuri, are vibrant celebrations that bring communities together, and one of the highlights of these events is the diverse array of festival foods. From classic treats to regional specialties, the variety of dishes available at matsuri is a culinary adventure waiting to happen.

Popular Festival Foods

1. Takoyaki

Takoyaki is a ball-shaped snack made from flour-based batter and filled with octopus. These are freshly made on the spot, often served with a choice of toppings and sauces such as sticky brown sauce, mayonnaise, bonito flakes, and dried seaweed. Be cautious when eating them, as they are usually piping hot.

2. Yakisoba

Yakisoba are stir-fried noodles cooked on a griddle with ingredients like pork, cabbage, carrots, and onions. They are seasoned with a sweet and savory brown sauce, making them a favorite among festival-goers.

3. Grilled Squid

Ikayaki, or grilled squid, is a popular dish at many matsuri. It is seasoned with soy sauce and can be served whole or cut into rings. The squid has a delightfully chewy texture, and in Osaka, it is often cooked in batter.

4. Grilled Corn on the Cob

Yaki tomorokoshi, or grilled corn on the cob, is seasoned with a soy sauce-based sauce, giving it a sweet and salty flavor. The charred bits of corn add another level of flavor to this simple yet delicious dish.

Seasonal and Regional Specialties

5. Yaki Imo

During cold-weather festivals, yaki imo (roasted sweet potatoes) are a common treat. They can be served whole or fried and dusted with a combination of salt and sugar, providing a warm and comforting snack.

6. Seafood Dosankoyaki

Originally from Hokkaido, seafood dosankoyaki is a small okonomiyaki with seafood. You might find stalls selling mixed seafood dosankoyaki or versions with just scallops.

7. Shiro Koro Horumon

From Kanagawa Prefecture, shiro koro horumon is a grilled offal dish that is becoming more common at festivals across the country. This dish offers a unique flavor profile for adventurous eaters.

Sweet Treats

8. Candied Fruits

Festival stalls often offer candied fruits, such as ichigo ame (candied strawberries), which are perfect for those looking for something sweet.

9. Deep-Fried Bread

Deep-fried bread, often covered in sugar and sometimes flavored with cinnamon, roasted soybean flour, or cocoa powder, is a sweet treat that is hard to resist.

10. Soft Cornet

For those with a sweet tooth, the soft cornet is like soft-serve ice cream but served in a bread cone instead of the traditional ice cream cone.

International Influences

11. Thai Ramen

Some festivals now include Thai food stalls, offering spicy and sour noodles that provide a different twist on traditional Japanese festival foods.

12. Buchimgae

Korean foods, such as buchimgae (Korean savory pancakes), are becoming more popular at Japanese matsuri, adding to the diversity of available dishes.

Tips for Enjoying Festival Foods

Arrive Hungry

To fully experience the variety of festival foods, it's best to arrive hungry. This allows you to try multiple dishes without feeling too full too quickly.

Explore the Entire Festival

Before indulging in food, take the time to walk through the entire festival. This helps you discover all the available options and avoid missing out on unique or seasonal treats.

Be Prepared for Crowds

Festivals can be crowded, so be prepared to wait in lines and navigate through throngs of people. The atmosphere is part of the fun, but patience is key.

Beverage Options

Beer and Sake

Many festivals feature beer gardens and sake tasting pavilions. For example, the Sakura Matsuri includes a Kirin Beer Garden and a Hakutsuru Sake Tasting Pavilion, offering a variety of beverages to complement your food.

Traditional Drinks

In addition to beer and sake, you can find traditional Japanese drinks like yuzu lemonade and mango dragonfruit refresher, as well as more common options like green tea and lemonade.

Food Stalls and Vendors

Variety of Vendors

Festivals often feature a wide range of vendors, each specializing in different types of cuisine. From traditional Japanese dishes like yakitori and okonomiyaki to international options like Thai and Korean food, there is something for every palate.

Local Specialties

Many vendors offer local specialties that are unique to the region where the festival is held. These dishes can provide a taste of the local culture and cuisine.

By exploring the diverse array of foods available at Japanese matsuri, you can experience the rich culinary culture of Japan and enjoy a fun and memorable festival experience.