Soup in Japan: Five Delicious Soups to Try!

Soup is a comforting dish enjoyed worldwide, but Japanese soups take things to a whole new level. With light yet deeply flavorful broths, fresh ingredients, and just the right amount of umami, Japanese soups are both delicious and satisfying. 

There are many types of soups, from rice-based to clear broths with seafood. Japanese soups are often made with simple ingredients that highlight natural flavors. Many of them are easy to prepare, while others have been crafted through centuries of tradition. No matter what kind of flavors you love, there’s a Japanese soup that will make your taste buds happy. Let’s take a look at five must-try soups that show off Japan’s rich culinary culture!

Zousui

Zousui is a warm and nourishing rice dish, perfect for when you need something light but filling. Often compared to porridge, this dish is made by simmering cooked rice in a flavorful broth, usually dashi, miso, or soy sauce-based. People often add vegetables, tofu, seafood, or chicken for extra flavor and texture.

Zousui is commonly enjoyed as a gentle, easy-to-digest meal—perfect for when you’re feeling under the weather or recovering from a cold. It’s also a great way to use leftover rice, making it a popular home-cooked dish. The broth absorbs into the rice, creating a deliciously soft and warm texture. Some variations even include beaten eggs, giving the soup a richer and silkier consistency. This simple yet satisfying dish is great for anyone who loves mild but comforting flavors. It’s a perfect way to enjoy a traditional Japanese meal with minimal effort!

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Egg Drop Soup 

Egg drop soup is a Japanese take on a classic dish that’s found in many Asian cuisines. This version is often made with a clear, dashi-based broth, which gives it a delicate and slightly smoky flavor. The highlight of this dish is the thin, wispy strands of egg that are gently stirred in while cooking, creating a silky and cloud-like texture.

Japanese egg drop soup is commonly served as a side dish in traditional meals. Some variations include mushrooms, scallions, or even a splash of soy sauce for extra umami. The soup is light yet satisfying, making it a great option for when you want something simple but flavorful. Because it’s so easy to make, egg drop soup is a favorite in Japanese home cooking. It can be paired with rice or enjoyed on its own! This soup is a quick and tasty way to add a warm touch to your meal!

Harusame

Harusame is a delicate soup featuring clear harusame noodles, also known as glass or cellophane noodles. These thin noodles are made from starch, usually mung bean or potato, and turn transparent when cooked. The broth for harusame dish is usually light and subtly seasoned, allowing the delicate texture of the noodles to shine.

Common additions to harusame soup include mushrooms, leafy greens, and sometimes a protein like tofu or chicken. The soup is often enjoyed in warmer months due to its refreshing taste, but it can also be served hot during colder weather. The lightness of the broth makes it an excellent choice for those who prefer a soup that isn’t too heavy. Harusame soup is a fantastic option if you’re looking for a simple, elegant dish packed with umami flavors. Plus, the slippery, smooth noodles make it extra fun to eat!

Clear Clam Soup

If you love seafood, clear clam soup (asari no suimono) is a must-try. This soup is made with a light, clear broth that enhances the natural sweetness of fresh clams. The broth is often seasoned with dashi and soy sauce, keeping the flavors simple yet rich.

Clam soup is not just about taste—it also holds cultural significance in Japan. It’s often served at weddings because clams symbolize harmony and good relationships. Since clams close tightly when cooked, they represent unity and strong bonds. The soup is sometimes garnished with a touch of citrus zest or fresh herbs like mitsuba (Japanese parsley) to elevate the flavor. The result is a soup that is both refreshing and deeply flavorful. Clear clam soup is a fantastic dish if you enjoy clean, ocean-inspired flavors!

Sanpeijiru 

Sanpeijiru is a rich and satisfying soup with roots in Hokkaido, Japan’s northernmost region. Unlike the lighter soups on this list, sanpeijiru is hearty and packed with ingredients, making it a filling and nourishing meal.

This soup is made with a miso-based or soy sauce broth and typically includes pork, tofu, and a variety of vegetables such as daikon radish, carrots, and potatoes. The result is a deeply flavorful and comforting dish that’s perfect for cold winter days. Sanpeijiru is a great representation of Hokkaido’s culinary culture, where people embrace warming, nutritious dishes to combat the region’s cold climate. If you’re looking for a Japanese soup that’s more substantial and packed with umami goodness, sanpeijiru is definitely worth a try!

Why should I try Japanese soup?

Japanese soups are worth trying because they highlight the balance of simplicity and deep flavor. Whether it’s the delicate silkiness of egg drop soup, the comforting warmth of zousui, or the hearty richness of sanpeijiru, each soup offers a unique experience. Japanese cuisine is all about bringing out the natural taste of ingredients, and soups are a perfect way to experience this approach.

There’s a Japanese soup for every season and mood. Plus, many of these soups are easy to make at home, so you can enjoy a little taste of Japan whenever you want!

Have you tried any of these soups before? Let us know in the comments!