When the summer heat hits Japan, the food scene transforms into something light, refreshing, and totally delicious. From icy treats to chilled noodles, Japanese summer food is designed to cool you down while still being packed with flavor. If you’re visiting Japan in the warmer months or just craving a taste of summer from home, here are the most popular Japanese foods to try in summer!
1. Sōmen (そうめん) – Thin Cold Noodles
Sōmen are super thin wheat noodles served cold with a light soy-based dipping sauce called mentsuyu. They’re refreshing, easy to slurp, and often served with chopped green onions, grated ginger, or sesame seeds.
Fun Fact: Some places in Japan serve nagashi sōmen, where noodles flow down a bamboo flume filled with cold water, and you catch them with chopsticks!
2. Hiyashi Chūka (冷やし中華) – Chilled Ramen Salad
Literally meaning “cold Chinese,” hiyashi chūka is a colorful ramen salad made with chilled noodles, sliced cucumber, ham, egg, tomato, and sometimes seafood, all topped with a tangy soy-vinegar dressing.
It's light, refreshing, and a must-try when you want ramen without the heat.
3. Kakigōri (かき氷) – Shaved Ice Dessert
Japanese shaved ice is on another level. Kakigōri is fluffy shaved ice topped with syrup flavors like matcha, strawberry, melon, or even condensed milk and sweet red beans. It’s a summertime staple at festivals (matsuri) and cafes.
Bonus: In recent years, gourmet kakigōri with fruit purée and creamy toppings have become super trendy in Japan!
4. Unagi (うなぎ) – Grilled Eel
Unagi is traditionally eaten in summer, especially on Doyo no Ushi no Hi (the Day of the Ox) in late July. This rich, grilled eel is glazed with a sweet soy sauce and served over rice (unadon).
It’s believed to boost stamina and fight summer fatigue.
5. Mori Soba (もりそば) – Cold Buckwheat Noodles
Unlike sōmen, soba noodles are made from buckwheat and have a slightly nutty taste. Mori soba is chilled and served with a dipping sauce and simple toppings. It's light but satisfying—perfect for a hot day.
Try adding wasabi and chopped green onions to your dipping sauce for an extra kick.
Final Thoughts
Japanese summer food isn’t just about cooling down—it’s about seasonal flavors, traditions, and enjoying food in fun, refreshing ways. Whether you’re in Japan or cooking at home, trying these summer favorites is the perfect way to get a taste of the season.
