What Can I Eat If I Don't Like Sushi?
If you’re planning a trip to Japan but don’t like sushi, you might be wondering:
“Will I have anything to eat?”
The good news is:
Absolutely — you’ll have plenty of options.
Japan Has Much More Than Sushi
Sushi is just one part of Japanese cuisine.
There are many delicious options that don’t involve raw fish at all.
In fact, many visitors end up enjoying completely different dishes during their trip.
Popular Japanese Foods (Beginner-Friendly)
Here are some foods that many international visitors enjoy:
Ramen
Ramen is one of the most popular foods in Japan.
It’s a hot noodle soup with rich broth and toppings like pork, egg, or vegetables.
Comforting, flavorful, and widely available.
Tonkatsu
Tonkatsu is a crispy fried pork cutlet served with cabbage and rice.
Crispy, filling, and easy to enjoy.
Curry Rice
Curry is mild, slightly sweet, and very popular in Japan.
A safe and familiar choice for many travelers.
Udon & Soba
Udon & Soba are simple noodle dishes.
Light, simple, and great if you want something less heavy.
When in Doubt, Try a “Teishoku” (Set Meal)
If you’re not sure what to order, look for a “teishoku” (set meal).
A teishoku usually includes:
- rice
- a main dish (meat or fish)
- soup
- side dishes
It’s a balanced meal and a great way to try different things.
Menus Are Tourist-Friendly
One thing many visitors love about Japan is how easy it is to order food.
Many restaurants have photo menus.
You can simply point at what looks good.
In some places, especially casual restaurants, you’ll order using a tablet — often with pictures included.
This makes ordering much less stressful, even without English.
A Quick Note About Customization
In Japan, it’s not always common to customize your order.
For example, asking to remove specific ingredients may not always be possible, especially at chain restaurants.
👉 It’s best to choose menu items as they are.
What About Dietary Restrictions?
If you don’t eat raw fish, you’ll have plenty of options.
However, if you have dietary restrictions (vegetarian, vegan, or religious restrictions), it may require more planning.
These needs are less common in Japan, so options can be limited depending on where you go.
Checking menus in advance is a good idea.
You Can Still Find Familiar Food
If you ever feel unsure, don’t worry.
In cities like Tokyo, you’ll also find:
- Italian food
- burgers
- cafes and bakeries
There’s always something you’ll recognize.
Conclusion
You definitely don’t need to like sushi to eat well in Japan. From ramen to curry to set meals, there’s something for everyone — and you might even discover a new favorite dish along the way.