Tag: Japanese customs

A historical law banning the eating of mammal meat in Japan, first enacted in 675 AD, was officially lifted in the Meiji Restoration, though its influence on dietary habits lingered. The concept of "forbidden foods" in Japan is nuanced, involving historical custom, modern import regulations, and challenges for specific dietary needs.

In Japan, a first-time visitor might be surprised to discover that the vast majority of bottled green tea is unsweetened. So, do Japanese sweeten green tea? The traditional answer is a resounding no, with cultural and culinary reasons explaining this preference for pure, unadulterated flavor.

In Japan, it is a common observation for visitors to be served cold water with ice, regardless of the season. This practice, which can seem unusual to foreigners, is rooted in a fascinating mix of traditional customs, historical factors, and hospitality standards.