Japan tips: food, izakaya and convenience stores

By the Japan Travel Costs team. Each tip links to an official or reputable source, last checked 2026-10-22. Anything we could not verify is left out or labelled. About us.

Eating well in Japan is easy. Knowing a couple of quirks means no surprises on the bill.

1. 1.Expect an otoshi at izakaya

   Many izakaya serve a small starter called otoshi (or tsukidashi) with your first drink. It is usually charged per person and works like a cover charge. If you want to know the price, ask before you sit down.

   Source: Consumer Hotline for Tourists: Otoshi. Last checked 2026-10-22.

2. 2.Order small plates to share

   In izakaya the food menu matters as much as the drinks. Ordering a few dishes for the table is the norm.

   Sources: JNTO: Entertainment and nightlife, JNTO: Izakaya dining guide. Last checked 2026-10-22.

3. 3.Convenience stores do more than food

   7-Eleven stores host Seven Bank ATMs that take overseas cards, and some convenience stores accept luggage for delivery.

   Sources: Seven Bank: Withdrawing yen with overseas cards, JNTO: 10 Smart Travel Tips for Japan (2026 PDF). Last checked 2026-10-22.

4. 4.Eat sushi with your fingers

   You can pick nigiri up by hand and dip it in soy sauce. It is how plenty of locals eat it.

   Source: JNTO: Custom and manners. Last checked 2026-10-22.

5. 5.Keep snacks sealed if you claimed tax back

   Food and drink bought tax-free are only refundable if you take them out of Japan unused. Eat the convenience store snacks instead.

   Source: JNTO: Japan's new tax-free shopping system. Last checked 2026-10-22.