Following the proverb “When in Rome, do as the Romans do” when I came to Japan for the first time, I tried a typical Japanese breakfast without thinking twice. And it was love at first sight — the dishes were delightful and gave me the stamina to walk around Tokyo all morning. But, of course, a Japanese breakfast could be considered quite tricky for many tourists, as the ingredients used are completely different from what most foreign visitors are used to. I’d recommend, however, that you switch your coffee and bread for rice and soup! With that in mind, allow me to navigate you through the ins and outs of the traditional Japanese breakfast.
History of the Japanese Breakfast
In ancient times, Japanese society’s breakfast was as simple as rice and wheat porridge. It wasn’t really until the Edo period, however, that it changed much. In those times, breakfast was considered one of the most important meals to provide the energy to work. So people usually woke up early in the morning and ate their first meal consisting of rice, miso soup, and other ingredients such as natto (fermented soy beans), tofu, pickles, fish, or vegetables, depending on budget and location. Rice was prepared in the morning, so breakfast was probably the only warm meal of the day.
This was the most common traditional Japanese breakfast until the Meiji period when Western-style breakfast ingredients were introduced. Toast, salad, and eggs became more commonplace, and even morning “breakfast” cafés appeared.
What is the Typical Breakfast in Japan?
The traditional breakfast follows the basic food served at home named ichiju sansai (一汁三菜), consisting of rice, soup, and three side dishes. Japanese breakfast tends to be smaller, including rice, soup (usually miso), and other dishes such as grilled salmon or tamagoyaki (sweet and savory Japanese rolled omelet). Of course, the amount of side dishes depends on your stomach and the place where you are. For example, some ryokan (traditional Japanese inn) or hotels serve a complete Japanese breakfast to their guests, with many small dishes to try. But, of course, the basic trio of rice, soup, and side dish is always on repeat.
Here are some side dishes you can add:
- Natto: Not a favorite of many tourists but natto is a nutritional ingredient perfect for those who want to care for their body as it’s rich in protein, calcium, B2, and iron.
- Eggs: If natto is too much for you, why not try a simple egg? With protein and vitamins, Japanese people tend to add soy sauce or other condiments.
- Tamagoyaki: If you prefer to add a spoonful of sugar, try the tamagoyaki.
- Grilled salmon: The most classic Japanese breakfast side dish, salmon is considered the perfect combination with rice or soup.
- Tofu: If you follow a vegan diet then adding tofu is another interesting option.
- Umeboshi: Pickled plums are very sour, but mixing them with rice makes it a combination you won’t stop eating.
Of course, not everyone has the time to sit and eat at a leisurely pace at home. Onigiri (rice ball) would be the perfect substitute for busy people who go to school or work early. You can make them yourself, or you can buy them in a convenience store.
Why is Japanese Breakfast Considered Healthy?
Breakfast is one of the most important meals in the day. A healthy breakfast wakes you up in a better mood, gives you more energy to work, and helps you maintain your body functions all day. And why is Japanese breakfast considered healthy?
- It is balanced: Rice gives energy, soup helps to stay hydrated, and the extra dishes give you nutrients, vitamins, or protein depending on your choice. Most Japanese ingredients such as natto, miso, or seaweed are nutritional and good for your health.
- Natural ingredients: If you read the previous ingredient list, you will see that most products are not processed.
- Small portions: portions in a Japanese breakfast are not that big, making it balanced and not heavy for your stomach.
Where Can you Have Breakfast in Japan?
Japanese accommodation such as ryokan and minshuku (family-operated, Japanese-style guesthouse) are the best places to enjoy an extensive and delicious breakfast. With many local and seasonal ingredients, you will learn about food and hospitality at the same time. At Voyapon, we’ve visited many places with delicious breakfasts including Mukaitaki and Nakadanaso. I experienced a homemade Japanese breakfast at this farm stay in Kagoshima, a Japanese breakfast bento box at JR Kyushu Blossom Oita Hotel, and a mouthwatering breakfast at Tensui Ryokan. Each one was different, but they were all delicious.
If you are traveling or driving around the countryside, a good way to try Japanese breakfast is at a michi-no-eki (roadside service station) where both Japanese and Western styles are usually on the menu. But if you are not in the mood for Japanese breakfast during your trip, you can try Western-style breakfast in many hotels or bakeries.
I’m sure you will now try the Japanese breakfast when traveling to Japan. If you want to go further, why don’t you try a kaiseki meal too? It’s easy and interesting, then, to discover Japanese culture through its cuisine.
