On the topic of spice in Japan!

Temperature – 15

Food eaten – Level 20 Curry

One common rumor about Japan is that it is difficult to find spicy food. The country is not known for its spicy cuisine or its use of spices. In my experience, many dishes claiming to have a certain level of spice or heat in Japan often provide only a mild tingle at most.

There are several options for obtaining spicy food from import stores, such as South Korean noodles and Chinese ramen cups. These products will add some heat to your meals. Additionally, you can explore importing hot sauces and spices from online stores that ship to Japan.

I am still on the hunt for the local spice options. I've heard rumors about spicy food from Miyazaki Prefecture, which seems like a promising lead. Because of this, Miyazaki has earned a place on my food holiday bucket list. Additionally, other locations claim to have great spice levels, which I plan to visit at some point.

The general finding is that spice is not a significant part of Japanese cuisine; therefore, it is not commonly used. Traditional dishes like ramen, sushi, and many meat dishes primarily focus on the umami flavor. As a result, the flavor profiles of these foods are often more balanced. I believe there are some places here that offer spicy options for those looking for a bit of heat, but they may take time to discover. If I find any during my travels, I will post an update!