Abstract
Japan, a nation encircled by the sea, encompasses over 70% of its landmass with mountains, fostering diverse regional characteristics spanning mountains, coastlines, and peninsulas. The Korea Strait, separating the Korean Peninsula and Japan, leads into the Sea of Japan. However, fast ocean currents and rough seas pose challenges for foreigners attempting to reach Japan, setting it apart from contiguous landmasses in Europe and isolating it from global influences. Rice, introduced in the waning years of the Jomon period, evolved into a dietary cornerstone. The Nara period saw the infusion of Buddhism, bringing daikon radish, ginger, turnips, carrots, and tea into Japan’s culinary tapestry. By the 16th century, Portugal introduced confections, sugar candies, tempura, and castella to Japanese cuisine. The Edo period (1600-1867) ushered in isolation, with Nagasaki’s Dejima serving as the sole Dutch and Portuguese trading post. Here, Dutch traders discovered Japanese soy sauce, catalyzing its export to Europe and inaugurating Japanese culinary global outreach. The Meiji Restoration of 1867 propelled Japan onto the international stage. A year later, 150 Japanese immigrants migrated to Hawaii, introducing soy sauce and miso, which persistently influence Hawaiian Japanese food culture. Japan assimilated diverse culinary traditions, enriching its cuisine. Presently, over 159,000 Japanese restaurants worldwide serve iconic dishes like sushi, tempura, and ramen. Post-Meiji Restoration, the global embrace of Japanese cuisine burgeoned, propelled by the “Healthy Japanese Food” trend. Comprehending this culinary journey unveils the evolution and impact of Japanese gastronomy on a global scale, fostering cultural exchange and appreciation.
Presenters
Aiko TanakaFounder, Japan Food Studies College, Japan Food Studies Research Institute (FSRI), Food Activist Organization Japan, Planetary Food Education Network, Japan
Details
Presentation Type
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session
Theme
KEYWORDS
Japanese cuisine, Culinary evolution, Cultural exchange, Global influences
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