Geography & Climate
What kind of country is Japan, one big land or lots of islands?
Lots of islands
Do most people in Japan live in the countryside or in cities?
Cities.
What two main beliefs have shaped Japan’s food traditions?
Shinto and Buddhism.
What special meal is eaten on New Year’s?
Osechi Ryori, lots of small dishes with meanings.
What Western food is super popular in Japan now?
Burgers or fried chicken.
Why do people in Japan eat so much seafood?
Because they live surrounded by the ocean.
What’s a common quick lunch for students or workers?
A bento box.
Why do some traditional meals not include a lot of meat?
Because old beliefs said not to harm animals.
What food do people enjoy when cherry blossoms bloom?
Sakura mochi (pink rice cakes).
What Japanese food became famous all over the world?
Sushi.
What’s the main crop people grow in Japan?
Rice
Why do people like food that’s easy to grab and eat?
Life is busy and fast-paced.
What do rice and salt represent?
Purity and good luck.
What kind of food do people eat at summer festivals?
Street snacks like takoyaki (octopus balls) or noodles.
How did fast food change eating habits?
People eat out more and cook less at home.
How does the rainy season help farming?
It helps grow rice and green veggies.
What’s something polite people do before eating?
Say Itadakimasu which means thanks for the food.
Why do people sometimes offer food at shrines?
To show respect to ancestors or spirits.
What do long noodles on New Year’s Eve mean?
A long life.
What’s a food that mixes Japanese and Western styles?
Japanese curry or spaghetti with soy sauce.
Why isn’t there much big farming in Japan?
There’s not a lot of flat land, so space is limited.
Why are convenience stores important for food in Japan?
They sell fresh meals fast, super handy for busy people
What’s “washoku”?
Traditional Japanese food that focuses on balance and nature.
What sweet food is for Children’s Day?
Rice cakes wrapped in leaves.
How has Japan shared its food with other countries?
through anime, travel, and restaurants around the world.