How to Use Public Transport in South Korea (Beginner’s Complete Guide)

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INTRODUCTION: MY FIRST REAL EXPERIENCE WITH KOREA’S TRANSPORT SYSTEM This article contains affiliate links. If you book through these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.              When I landed at Incheon International Airport for the first time, my biggest worry wasn’t food, language, or accommodation. It was transportation. I had read stories online about complicated subway lines, color-coded buses, and unfamiliar payment systems. Standing at the airport terminal with my backpack, I wondered whether I should just take a taxi everywhere. That decision changed within one hour. By the end of my first day, I had: • Bought a T-money card • Taken the AREX train • Transferred subway lines • Used a city bus • Walked confidently through Seoul South Korea’s public transport system didn’t just move me from one place to another it gave me freedom . This guide is written so you feel the same confidence on your first day . ...

Famous Japanese Street Foods You Must Try – A Food Lover’s Guide

 Introduction

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          Japan is not only famous for its rich culture, serene temples, and stunning landscapes it’s also a culinary paradise for street food lovers. From the neon-lit streets of Tokyo to the bustling alleys of Osaka, Japanese street foods provide a perfect blend of flavor, culture, and tradition.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, experiencing Japan’s street food is a must-do adventure.

Complete Japan Travel Guide – Best Places, Food, Culture, Transport & Travel Tips


Takoyaki – The Iconic Octopus Balls

Takoyaki is arguably Japan’s most famous street food, especially in Osaka.

What is Takoyaki?

Takoyaki are round balls made from wheat flour batter filled with diced octopus, tempura scraps, pickled ginger, and green onions. Cooked in a special molded pan, they are served hot with takoyaki sauce, Japanese mayo, and bonito flakes.

Where to Try Takoyaki

  • Dotonbori Street, Osaka – bustling area with multiple vendors

  • Shinsaibashi Shopping Street – creative variations like cheese takoyaki

Fun Story:
Late one night in Dotonbori, I followed the smell of sizzling takoyaki and tried a cheese-filled version. The first bite was an explosion of flavor soft octopus, crispy outside, savory sauce, and dancing bonito flakes. It’s easy to see why locals call Osaka “Japan’s kitchen.”

 For family trips, check   Best Family-Friendly Destinations in Asia – Complete Travel Guide for Families


Taiyaki – The Sweet Fish-Shaped Treat

Taiyaki is a fish-shaped dessert, usually filled with sweet red bean paste, custard, chocolate, or savory fillings like cheese or sausage.

Why You Should Try Taiyaki

Taiyaki combines a crispy exterior with a warm, soft interior, making it an irresistible snack for locals and tourists alike.

Best Places for Taiyaki

  • Asakusa, Tokyo – near Sensoji Temple

  • Street markets in Osaka and Kyoto – unique modern fillings

Pro Tip: Try it freshly cooked for the best experience.

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Okonomiyaki – The Japanese Savory Pancake

Okonomiyaki literally means “what you like, grilled.” A savory pancake made with cabbage, batter, eggs, and optional ingredients like pork, seafood, or cheese.

Best Places to Try Okonomiyaki

  • Hiroshima Street Stalls – Hiroshima-style layered with noodles

  • Osaka Namba Area – mixed batter Osaka-style

Fun Fact: Many vendors allow customers to grill their own okonomiyaki, making it interactive and fun.


Yakitori – Skewered & Grilled Perfection

Yakitori are grilled chicken skewers, seasoned with salt or tare sauce.

Types of Yakitori

  • Negima – chicken & scallion

  • Tsukune – chicken meatballs

  • Momo – chicken thigh

Best Places to Try Yakitori

  • Memory Lane, Shinjuku, Tokyo – lively street stalls

  • Osaka street markets – creative variations like cheese-filled yakitori

  • Best Seoul Food Tours (Highly Recommended)
    If you want to experience authentic Korean street food with a local guide,
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Yaki Imo – Roasted Sweet Potatoes

Yaki Imo is a classic winter street food. Roasted sweet potatoes over hot stones create a sweet, caramelized flavor.

  • Sold from trucks with wood fire ovens

  • Perfect for cold evenings

Story: I tried yaki imo on a chilly December night in Kyoto. The warm, sweet potato in my hands was comfort food like no other.


Japanese Crepes – Harajuku Style

Harajuku, Tokyo, is famous for colorful Japanese-style crepes, filled with fruit, whipped cream, ice cream, or savory ingredients.


Kakigori – Shaved Ice Dessert

Kakigori is fluffy shaved ice dessert topped with syrup, condensed milk, or fruit.

  • Popular spots: Summer festivals (matsuri)

  • Flavors: Matcha, melon, strawberry


Korokke – Japanese Croquettes

Korokke are crispy fried patties with potato, meat, or seafood fillings.

  • Best for: Quick snack while sightseeing

  • Popular in: Osaka and Tokyo

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Imagawayaki – Thick Pancake with Filling

Similar to Taiyaki but round, Imagawayaki comes with sweet or savory fillings.

  • Sweet red bean paste, custard, chocolate, cheese

  • Where to eat: Street markets and matsuri festivals


Japanese Street Drinks – Matcha & Bubble Tea

  • Matcha Latte / Green Tea: hot or iced

  • Japanese Bubble Tea: popular in Osaka & Tokyo

  • Ramune Soda: unique Japanese soda in glass bottles


Tips for Enjoying Japanese Street Foods

  1. Eat while walking

  2. Bring small cash bills

  3. Try local specialties per city

  4. Be adventurous with unusual fillings

  5. Visit summer matsuri festivals


Suggested Japanese Food Trail (Sample Itinerary)

Day 1: Tokyo

  • Breakfast: Crepe in Harajuku

  • Lunch: Yakitori in Shinjuku

  • Snack: Taiyaki near Sensoji Temple

Day 2: Osaka

  • Breakfast: Yaki Imo truck

  • Lunch: Takoyaki in Dotonbori

  • Snack: Okonomiyaki in Namba

Day 3: Kyoto

  • Morning: Korokke near Kiyomizu Temple

  • Afternoon: Kakigori at festival

  • Evening: Street sushi & sake tasting

Hong Kong Street Food Guide – Best Local Dishes & Night Markets


Why Japanese Street Foods Are Special

  • Affordable yet high quality

  • Cultural experience with centuries of history

  • Variety: sweet, savory, modern, traditional

  • Interactive cooking experiences

  • Instagram-worthy


Final Thoughts

Japanese street food is more than eating it’s experiencing culture, flavor, and lifestyle. Trying Takoyaki, Taiyaki, Okonomiyaki, Yakitori, and more will leave you with unforgettable memories.

Plan your itinerary, explore street food hotspots, and embrace the adventure. Every bite tells a story.

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