Autumn Food in Japan: 11 Delicious Seasonal Dishes to Try

Looking for the best autumn food in Japan? Here’s your ultimate guide for foodies visiting Japan in the fall!

Autumn is a magical time of year in Japan.

The leaves turn brilliant shades of red, orange, and yellow, and the air becomes crisp and cool.

As the seasons change, so too does the cuisine. Autumn in Japan brings with it a bounty of delicious and comforting dishes that are perfect for the cooler weather.

In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at some of the most popular autumn food in Japan and explore the rich culinary traditions that make this season so special.

Is There Autumn Food in Japan?

Absolutely!

You’ll find a variety of autumn food in Japan that are both delicious and seasonal, showcasing the flavors of fall.

As the temperatures drop and the leaves change colors, these dishes will provide you with a taste of the season’s offerings.

One iconic autumn food in Japan is “matsutake mushrooms.” These highly prized mushrooms have a unique aroma and taste, and they can be found in various dishes, such as soups, rice, and hot pots.

Since they’re only available during the autumn months, be sure to give them a try when you have the chance.

Another popular autumn food in Japan is “sanma” or Pacific saury, a type of fish that migrates toward Japan during this season. Grilled with a sprinkle of salt, this flavorful fish is a simple yet tasty addition to any meal.

You can’t discuss autumn in Japan without talking about chestnuts. Harvested during this season, chestnuts can be found in a variety of dishes and sweets, such as “kuri gohan” (chestnut rice) and “kuri kinton” (chestnut and sweet potato paste).

Don’t forget about autumn fruits! Japan is famous for its juicy and flavorful apples, grapes, and persimmons, which are at their peak during this season. Make sure to try them out when you get the chance.

Must-Try Autumn Food in Japan

1. Matsutake Mushroom

If you’re a mushroom lover, you’re in for a treat this autumn in Japan.

One of the most highly prized mushrooms in Japan is the Matsutake mushroom.

This mushroom has a unique aroma and flavor that is hard to describe. It is often used in traditional Japanese cuisine, especially during the autumn season.

Matsutake mushrooms are found in the forests of Japan, and they are quite rare.

They are harvested in the autumn, and their season is short, which makes them all the more valuable. Matsutake mushrooms are often served in soups, rice dishes, and as a side dish.

The Matsutake mushroom has a distinct aroma that is earthy, spicy, and slightly sweet.

Its flavor is also unique and can be described as nutty and slightly meaty. The texture of the mushroom is firm and chewy, which makes it perfect for soups and stews.

In Japanese culture, the Matsutake mushroom is considered a delicacy and is often given as a gift. It’s also a sign that autumn has arrived, and it’s time to enjoy the season’s bounty.

2. Pacific Saury

When the fall arrives in Japan, Pacific Saury or “Sanma” becomes a popular autumn food in Japan that you can find in many restaurants and markets.

Sanma is a type of fish that is known for its rich flavor and high nutritional value. Here are some things you should know about this autumn delicacy:

Sanma is usually grilled or broiled, and it is often served with grated daikon radish, soy sauce, and a slice of lemon.
The best time to enjoy Sanma is from September to November when the fish is at its peak season.
Sanma is a good source of protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamin B12, which are essential nutrients for maintaining good health.
Sanma is also relatively affordable compared to other types of fish, making it a popular choice for budget-conscious diners.

3. Sweet Potato

Autumn is the perfect season to indulge in some sweet potato treats in Japan. Sweet potatoes, or “satsumaimo” in Japanese, are a popular autumn food in Japan.

They are used in a variety of dishes, from savory to sweet. Here are some ways you can enjoy sweet potato in Japan:

4. Roasted Sweet Potato

Roasted sweet potato, or “yakiimo,” is another popular autumn food in Japan.

You can find vendors selling them on the streets, especially in the evenings. The sweet potato is roasted over charcoal until it is soft and tender.

The skin becomes crispy and caramelized, adding a nice contrast to the soft and sweet flesh inside. You can enjoy it as is, or with a sprinkle of salt.

5. Sweet Potato Pie

Sweet potato pie is a popular dessert in Japan during the autumn season.

It is similar to the American sweet potato pie, but with a Japanese twist.

The filling is made with mashed sweet potato, sugar, eggs, and milk. It is baked in a pie crust until it is golden brown and set.

The result is a creamy and sweet pie that is perfect for autumn.

6. Sweet Potato Ice Cream

Sweet potato ice cream, or “imo-soft cream,” is a unique ice cream flavor and one of the best autumn food in Japan for sweet tooth.

It is made with mashed sweet potato, milk, and cream.

The result is a creamy and sweet ice cream that has a subtle sweet potato flavor. It is perfect for those who want to try something new and different.

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7. Sweet Potato Chips

Sweet potato chips, or “satsuma-imo chips,” are a popular snack in Japan during the autumn season.

They are thin and crispy, with a sweet and salty flavor. They are made by slicing sweet potato thinly and frying them until they are crispy.

They make a great snack to munch on while enjoying the autumn foliage.

Sweet potato is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes.

Whether you prefer it sweet or savory, there is a sweet potato dish for everyone to enjoy during the autumn season in Japan.

8. Chestnuts

Chesnuts are quintessential autumn food in Japan. You can find chestnuts in many dishes, from sweet to savory.

Chestnuts are rich in vitamins and minerals, making them a healthy addition to your diet.

Here are some ways that you can enjoy chestnuts in Japan:

Roasted Chestnuts: Roasted chestnuts are a popular snack in Japan during autumn. You can find them being sold on the streets, especially near temples and shrines. The sweet aroma of roasted chestnuts is sure to make your mouth water.
Chestnut Rice: Chestnut rice is a traditional Japanese dish that is made by mixing cooked rice with chestnuts. It is a simple yet delicious dish that is perfect for autumn.
Chestnut Mont Blanc: Mont Blanc is a popular Japanese dessert that is made with chestnut cream and chestnut puree. It is a sweet and creamy dessert that is perfect for those who have a sweet tooth.
Chestnut Soup: Chestnut soup is a savory dish that is made by simmering chestnuts in a broth with vegetables and spices. It is a warming and comforting dish that is perfect for chilly autumn nights.

9. Persimmons

If you visit Japan during the fall season, you will notice that persimmons are everywhere.

This fruit is an essential part of Japanese cuisine, and it’s used in various dishes, from desserts to savory dishes.

Persimmons are sweet and have a unique texture. They can be eaten raw, but they are often used in cooking.

You can find them in many traditional Japanese sweets, such as wagashi and yokan.

One of the most popular persimmon dishes in Japan is dried persimmons, called hoshigaki.

Hoshigaki is made by peeling the persimmons, then hanging them to dry. The drying process takes about two to three weeks, and during this time, the persimmons are massaged to keep them from becoming too hard.

The result is a sweet, chewy snack that is perfect for autumn.

Another popular persimmon dish is persimmon salad. The salad is made with thinly sliced persimmons, mixed greens, and a sesame dressing.

The combination of the sweet persimmons and the nutty dressing is a perfect balance of flavors.

In Japan, persimmons are also used in savory dishes. For example, they can be added to stews, or roasted with meat. The sweetness of the persimmons adds a unique flavor to the dish.

10. Grapes

Autumn in Japan is synonymous with the grape harvest season.

Grapes are a popular fruit in Japan and are grown in different regions of the country. They’re definitely a staple when it comes to autumn food in Japan.

The grape season usually starts in August and lasts until October. During this time, you can find a variety of grapes in supermarkets, fruit stands, and even on the side of the road.

Grapes in Japan are known for their sweetness and juiciness. Some of the most popular grape varieties include Kyoho, Delaware, and Pione.

Kyoho grapes are large and have a deep purple color with a sweet and tart taste. Delaware grapes are smaller and have a reddish-purple color with a sweet and mild taste.

Pione grapes are small and have a green color with a sweet and refreshing taste.

In addition to eating grapes as a snack, they are also used in various dishes and desserts in Japan.

One popular dish is called “grape jelly,” which is a sweet jelly made from grape juice.

Another popular dessert is “grape parfait,” which is a layered dessert with grape-flavored ice cream, fresh grapes, and whipped cream.

When buying grapes in Japan, it’s important to choose ones that are plump, firm, and free of blemishes.

Grapes are usually sold in small bunches and are priced by weight. The price of grapes can vary depending on the variety and the region where they are grown.

11. Pears

Pears are a popular fruit in Japan during the autumn season.

They are known for their sweet and juicy flavor, and are often enjoyed as a snack or used in cooking and baking.

One popular variety of pear in Japan is the nashi pear, also known as the Asian pear.

This type of pear has a crisp texture and a slightly sweet flavor. It is often eaten raw or used in salads, but can also be cooked in dishes such as stir-fries and stews.

Another variety of pear that is popular in Japan is the yoinashi pear. This pear has a soft and juicy texture, and is known for its sweet and fragrant flavor.

It is often used in desserts such as pies and tarts, or enjoyed on its own as a snack.

When selecting pears, look for ones that are firm and free from bruises or blemishes.

Pears can be stored at room temperature until they are ripe, and then should be refrigerated to keep them fresh.

Moreover, in Japan, pears are often given as gifts during the autumn season, and are a symbol of good luck and prosperity.

Local Autumn Food in Japan

Nagano’s Shinshu Soba

In Nagano, you’ll find a scrumptious Japanese autumn dish called Shinshu Soba.

This local specialty is made from freshly harvested buckwheat, giving it a unique texture and flavor.

When you visit, don’t miss out on a delicious bowl of Shinshu Soba, typically served with a warm, savory broth and a variety of tempting toppings like:

Tempura: You might find veggies, shrimp, or even mushrooms coated in a light, crispy batter.
Grated yam: A creamy and slightly sweet addition that balances the earthy soba flavors.
Green onions: These bring a fresh, zesty touch to the dish, enhancing the overall taste.

Hokkaido’s Ikura Don

For seafood lovers, your taste buds will be delighted by Ikura Don, a local autumn food in Japan’s Hokkaido.

This dish hero ingredient is ikura, or salmon roe, which is a famous autumn delicacy in this region.

Imagine a bowl of steaming rice, generously topped with glistening, orange pearls packed with a burst of briny flavor.

Here’s why you’ll adore this dish:

Texture: The ikura pops in your mouth, releasing the savory, rich taste of the sea.
Color: These bright, glossy roe elevate the visual appeal of your meal.
Versatility: You can enjoy Ikura Don as a main dish or even as a side dish paired with other delicious local eats.

Pairings for Autumn Food in Japan

Autumn food in Japan gets even better when paired with unique drinks.

Here’s how to do it:

Sake Pairings

During autumn in Japan, you’ll find an incredible variety of seasonal dishes that pair perfectly with sake.

When enjoying matsutake mushrooms, a highly prized ingredient during this season, try pairing them with a junmai ginjo sake.

The delicate and slightly fruity notes of the junmai ginjo will harmonize well with the earthy flavors of the mushrooms.

Another popular autumn dish is sanma, or Pacific saury. This rich and oily fish is in season during the fall, and it pairs well with a bold junmai sake.

The robust flavor of the junmai will stand up to the strong taste of the fish, creating a balanced flavor profile.

Tea Pairings

In Japan, tea is a quintessential part of daily life.

When the weather turns colder, you can enjoy a warm cup of tea alongside your favorite autumn dishes.

To complement the delicate flavors of kabocha (Japanese pumpkin), try a sencha tea.

This green tea has a light, grassy flavor that will bring out the natural sweetness of the kabocha.

If you’re indulging in a heartier autumn dish like nikujaga (a meat and potato stew), pair it with a hojicha.

This roasted green tea has a toasty, nutty flavor that will enhance the rich, savory notes of the stew.

Autumn Food Festivals in Japan

If you’re planning a trip to Japan during autumn, you’re in for a treat.

Autumn is a time when Japanese cuisine shines, and there are plenty of food festivals to attend.

Here are a Japan autumn food festivals you don’t want to miss:

Matsutake Mushroom Festival

Matsutake mushrooms are a prized ingredient in Japanese cuisine, and they’re only available for a short time during the autumn months.

The Matsutake Mushroom Festival is held in various locations throughout Japan, including Nagano, Tochigi, and Yamagata.

At the festival, you can sample dishes made with fresh matsutake mushrooms, such as matsutake gohan (rice cooked with matsutake) and matsutake soup.

Chestnut Festival

Chestnuts are another popular ingredient in Japanese cuisine during the autumn months.

The Chestnut Festival is held in various locations throughout Japan, including Kanagawa and Tokyo.

At the festival, you can sample dishes made with fresh chestnuts, such as chestnut rice and chestnut sweets. You can also purchase fresh chestnuts to take home with you.

Grape Harvest Festival

Autumn is also grape season in Japan, and the Grape Harvest Festival is a celebration of the grape harvest.

The festival is held in various locations throughout Japan, including Yamanashi and Nagano.

At the festival, you can sample different varieties of grapes, including the famous Kyoho grape.

You can also participate in grape picking and learn about the grape growing process.

Autumn food in Japan: Conclusion

Autumn in Japan is a time of harvest and celebration, and the food is a reflection of this.

From savory dishes to sweet treats, the autumn cuisine in Japan is rich in flavor and tradition.

Whether you are a local or a visitor, experiencing the autumn food in Japan is a must!