See how we're doing in the Topsites Japan rankings. As an island nation, the Japanese take great pride in their seafood. A wide variety of fish, squid, octopus, eel, and shellfish appear in all kinds of dishes from sushi to tempura. A decorative sushi selection Rice Sticky, short-grained rice is the staple food in Japan.
Uncooked rice is called kome .
The cultivation of rice in paddy fields traditionally required great cooperation between villagers and this is said to have been central to the evolution of Japanese culture. Their are several thousand varieties grown in Japan, with Koshihikari and Akita Komachi being among the most popular. They are traditionally part of a packed lunch or picnic. Individually wrapped onigiri, usually a trianular shape, make a good snack and are available at convenience stores . Noodles - Udon and soba Udon noodles are made from wheat flour.