It’s Summertime! Time to hit the beach and have some fun in the sun? Of course that’s always an option, but in Japan, Summer also means festival season! The hottest Japan festivals are gearing up right now. It’ll be hot and humid outside, but if you can handle the weather then make sure you visit a matsuri (Japan Festival). Matsuri is probably the best place to enjoy some delicious, freshly cooked maybe just a little bit unhealthy street food from the rows of yatai (food stalls – lined up along the streets). If you find yourself in the middle of a matsuri, here’s our list of some foods that you will see and take the time to eat! (ᗒᗨᗕ)

1. Takoyaki

Yep, you know it! The one and only, Takoyaki. This ball-shaped savoury snack filled with a piece of octopus is one of Japan’s most favourite street food which originated in Osaka. Who couldn’t resist trying this essential matsuri food… unless you’re not a fan of octopus of course! ٩(๑`н´๑)۶ Freshly made on the spot at most stands, make sure you try this one!

2. Ikayaki

Ikayaki literally means “grilled squid”. The squid is simply grilled and topped with soy sauce, the simplicity is what makes this so yummy! Also, the squids are prepared quickly, which leaves them tender and plump, becoming even more delicious when half-dried (￣▼￣)

3. Yakisoba

Yakisoba is a Japanese style fried noodle with ingredients such as pork, carrot, cabbage, onion, and seasoned with a sweet and savoury sauce. Maybe you’ve tried the instant version before? If you liked it, then you have to try the fresh! You can also find varieties of Yakisoba (seafood yakisoba, omelette yakisoba etc) in different yatai. So make sure to look around.

4. Chocolate Banana

One of the best desserts in Matsuri, Chocolate Banana (チョコバナナ)! It’s a simple dessert, chocolate banana is basically a chocolate covered bananas with sticks. The taste absolutely amazing, but the difference is these choco bananas usually have  very unique decorations. We bet you will line up to try it and take a picture of it for Insta! ˶⚈Ɛ⚈˵

5. Ramune

You you’ll probably be so tired and sweaty from walking up and down the street in the Japanese Summer, right? Time for a festival drink then! This is a very must-try drink in Matsuri. Ramune usually comes in a cute bottle with a sweet and refreshing soda.

Ok! That’s all our main recommendations, although there is always so much more food available, usually following some food trends too! Just keep in mind, when you plan to visit a Matsuri, make sure to go with an empty stomach to maximize the enjoyment of all the delicious food!

Which matsuri food do you think looks best? Maybe we could try and stick some (or versions of them) in future boxes? What do you think? Let us know and we’ll see what we can do! (≧∀≦ゞ

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