Imagine the scene: you're traveling around Japan, walking the streets, admiring the local culture, and suddenly hunger strikes. Or maybe you're planning a trip from the comfort of your own home and already want to find out where you're going to taste the delicious Japanese cuisine. Better still, maybe you're just curious to explore the incredible sights of typical Japanese dishes and charming restaurants.
This is where Google Maps comes into play. Whether it's to choose a restaurant while you're out and about or simply to admire photos of irresistible dishes, Google Maps is your essential tool for finding amazing options without hassle.
We recommend reading: The 100 most popular Japanese meals in Japan
Table of Content
Using Google Maps to Choose Restaurants in Japan
If I could define Google Maps in one word, it would be "practicality". The app makes it very easy to explore dining options in 日本, even before you leave home.
Here's a tip: position the map in the region or city you want to visit - the more precise it is, the better. In the search field, simply type in "restaurant" or, if you want something more specific, type in the type of food you want, such as "sushi" or "ramen". In a matter of seconds, Google Maps will list the restaurant options, along with reviews, photos of dishes and often even the menu.
One of the most fun advantages? You can spend hours admiring the beautiful food images while deciding what you're going to enjoy among the countless options of Japan's rich cuisine. If you're one of those who love planning every meal, this is an indispensable tool.
Bonus tip: If price is an important factor, many restaurants show the price range, and some even have the official website listed. Although many of these sites are in Japanese, automatic translation can help. Of course, knowing a bit of kanji will make your search even easier.
We recommend reading: How to map your destination in Japan with Google Maps
Other Ways to Find Good Restaurants in Japan
In addition to Google Maps, another popular app is Tripadvisor. It is also an excellent option, especially if you're looking for the most famous restaurants in a city. Tripadvisor stands out for its detailed reviews, with comments from travelers worldwide, which can be very helpful when choosing a place to eat.
However, Tripadvisor does have its limitations. It works very well in tourist areas, but it can be more complicated to find options for those planning to visit more remote locations or smaller towns. If your focus is on exploring local restaurants in lesser-known neighborhoods, Google Maps is still the most practical choice.
Saving and Exploring New Flavors
If your goal is to save money, Japan offers many affordable and delicious options. In more remote areas, you can easily find traditional restaurants serving dishes like soba or udon for less than 300 yen. And if hunger strikes during your outings, konbini (convenience stores) are true allies. They offer an impressive variety of snacks and ready-made dishes, ranging from onigiri to bento boxes, at super affordable prices.
Konbinis are known for their quality and convenience, so don't hesitate to explore the options when you're in one. For many travelers, stopping at a konbini is part of the culinary experience in Japan!
Read also: Konbini - Convenience stores in Japan
Conclusion: The Culinary Adventure Begins with Planning
With so many incredible options at your disposal, from practical apps like Google Maps and Tripadvisor to the delicious dishes found in small restaurants and convenience stores, eating out in Japan can be one of the most memorable experiences of your trip. Whether you're looking for a sophisticated gastronomic experience or just a quick and cheap snack, Japan has something to offer for all tastes and budgets.
So the next time you're planning a trip to Japan (or just dreaming about it), remember to explore the restaurant options well in advance. And, of course, have fun looking at the pictures of the dishes on Google Maps - after all, eating with your eyes is also part of the experience!