The traditional Japanese diet is rich in minimally processed, fresh, seasonal foods.
It contrasts with modern Japanese cuisine, which has strong Western and Chinese influences and includes larger amounts of animal protein and processed foods. The traditional Japanese diet resembles the Okinawan diet, the historical eating pattern of those living on the Japanese island of Okinawa, but includes significantly more rice and fish. It may also contain some eggs, dairy, or meat, although these typically make up a small part of the diet.
The diet is rich in steamed rice, noodles, fish, tofu, natto, seaweed, and fresh, cooked, or pickled fruits and vegetables but low in added sugars and fats. This style of eating emphasizes dishes’ natural flavors rather than masking them with sauces or seasonings. The traditional Japanese diet consists of minimally processed, seasonal foods served in a variety of small dishes.
