Japan isn’t just a feast for the eyes—it’s a true culinary wonderland. Every region has its own specialties and must-try dishes. Traveling by private car means you can go beyond the touristy eateries and discover local flavors at your own pace. Whether you’re a die-hard foodie or just looking to taste something new, this journey through Tokyo, Mt. Fuji/Hakone, and Kyoto/Osaka will whet your appetite—and maybe even inspire your next trip.
Explore authentic flavors and hidden foodie gems—from bustling Tokyo to scenic Hakone and the heart of Kansai—made even better with the comfort of private car travel.
Tokyo: Where Every Neighborhood Tells a Delicious Story
Tokyo is a city of contrasts, and its food scene reflects that beautifully—traditional eats meet bold, modern flavors. A private car lets you jump between neighborhoods like Shibuya, Asakusa, and Daikanyama with ease, making it simple to sample Tokyo’s culinary diversity in a single day.
Must-Try Dishes:
Sushi at a Local Counter – Skip the high-end omakase and try a neighborhood sushi-ya for fresh, authentic flavors.
Monjayaki in Tsukishima – A Tokyo twist on okonomiyaki, grilled right at your table.
Wagashi (Japanese Sweets) – Try mochi, daifuku, yokan, and other beautifully crafted treats with green tea in a quiet cafe in Yanaka or Kagurazaka.
Private Car Tip: Let your driver wait while you wander through back alleys in Shimokitazawa or hop between food stops across the city.
Mt. Fuji & Hakone: Scenic Views, Soothing Hot Springs & Comfort Food
Traveling around the Fuji Five Lakes or Hakone region isn’t just about the views—it’s a chance to relax and enjoy some warm, hearty dishes that reflect the mountain climate.
Must-Try Dishes:
Hōtō Noodles (Yamanashi) – A comforting miso-based hotpot with thick flat noodles and local vegetables—often naturally vegetarian!
Black Eggs (Owakudani, Hakone) – Boiled in volcanic hot springs, they’re a quirky snack with a backstory (and supposedly add 7 years to your life!).
Tofu Cuisine – Many inns and restaurants in Hakone serve tofu-based meals that are light, nourishing, and suitable for vegetarians.
Private Car Tip: Public transport in this area can be slow—your private driver can help you make the most of your day and even guide you to the best local eateries with a view of Mt. Fuji.
Kyoto & Osaka: Elegant Tradition Meets Street Food Spirit
Kyoto and Osaka are just an hour apart—but their food cultures are worlds away. With a private car, you can enjoy a full day of culinary discovery, from temple-side meals to neon-lit snack hunts in Dotonbori.
In Kyoto:
Kaiseki – A seasonal, multi-course dining experience rooted in elegance. Many places offer vegetarian kaiseki, especially near Zen temples.
Yudofu (Boiled Tofu) – Served around Nanzen-ji and Arashiyama, this simple dish is warming and surprisingly flavorful.
Matcha Parfaits – Uji’s specialty—layered with jelly, ice cream, and red bean paste.
In Osaka:
Takoyaki (Octopus Balls) – Crispy outside, gooey inside. Try it in street stalls or tiny shops in Dotonbori.
Okonomiyaki (Savory Pancakes) – Cooked on a griddle with your choice of toppings. Many places offer vegetarian versions.
Kushikatsu – Deep-fried skewers of meat and veggies. Just remember: no double-dipping in the sauce!
Private Car Tip: Drive between the peaceful temples of Kyoto and the energetic food streets of Osaka all in one day—no train transfers, no stress.
Final Bite: Foodie Adventure, Elevated by Private Car
One of the best parts of using a private car service in Japan is the flexibility it offers—you’re not tied to train timetables or busy stations. Want to try a hidden soba shop in the suburbs? Or relax in a hot spring before lunch? Your driver can help make it all happen.
No matter where your cravings take you—from tofu in Kyoto to vegan ramen in Tokyo—your foodie adventure through Japan can be just as enjoyable as the destinations themselves.
Book with us at Hire Taxi Japan and let us take you to Japan’s best food spots—comfortably, seamlessly, and deliciously!
