Japan's Cherry Blossom Season

A Japanese rice cake made of mochigome, a short-grain japonica glutinous rice, and sometimes other ingredients such as water, sugar, and cornstarch. The rice is pounded into paste and molded into the desired shape.

Seafood or vegetables that have been battered and deep fried. The batter is light and airy, creating a delicate and crispy coating. Tempura is typically served with a dipping sauce called tentsuyu.

A Japanese noodle soup dish with Chinese-style wheat noodles served in a meat or fish-based broth, often flavored with soy sauce or miso, and topped with ingredients such as sliced pork, dried seaweed, and green onions.

Thick wheat flour noodles served either hot in a broth or cold with a dipping sauce. Udon has a chewy texture and can be topped with various ingredients such as tempura, tofu, or vegetables.