Updated on November 8, 2024

Autumn is such a beautiful time to visit Japan, and we just can't stop talking about it! Not only are the colors that surround the area beautiful, but the foods are delicious and evoke a sense of fall as well. Autumn is the perfect time to go visit Japan for the scenery, and to try some Japanese fall foods as well.

Kaki/Persimmon

Kaki, or persimmons, are a staple in many Japanese households in the fall. An autumn fruit, the bright orange color of the fruit evoke a sense of autumn visually. The flavor of the fruit is sweet and mild, but unique. In Japan, it's common to see these fruits sold as gifts in big boxes, and in many households as a snack to eat. Kaki can also be eaten dried, and in some areas of Japan, you can see them hanging to be dried. They resemble tomatoes, but don't be fooled! The beautiful, bright orange color and flavor is uniquely its own.

Matsutake Mushroom

Matsutake mushrooms are the sought after mushrooms of Japan. Matsutake mushrooms can differ in price, but the good quality ones are aromatic and distinct, but delicate in flavor. Because it is hard to cultivate, and it takes some work to find, the mushrooms tend to be pricey. However it is more commonly used in the fall because it accents fall dishes perfectly and are harvested in the fall, and are well-loved by the people of Japan. The most common way it is enjoyed is grilled with soy sauce, steamed into rice, or as a delicious soup. 

Kuri/Chestnuts

Chestnuts are commonly thought of as a winter nut enjoyed roasted over a fire. However in Japan, chestnuts or kuri, are more often enjoyed in the fall, and are associated with the fall foliage and color change.  The buttery, nutty flavor makes it a popular snack in Japan, and many vendors start selling them in the fall. Many people enjoy the hot snack that perfectly balances out the brisk air of autumn in Japan. Chestnuts are enjoyed plain, but delicious desserts can be made from them as well. Kuri manju is a popular favorite, as well as mont blanc cake. Kuri is also found in dorayaki and is eaten as a snack with tea. Kuri rice is a popular savory fall dish, and evokes a sense of fall for many Japanese people. 

Sanma/Pacific Saury

Fish is a staple in Japanese households year-round, but sanma is a popular one in the fall. Sanma is a type of fish that is favored in Japan, especially in the fall. The name sanma translates to "autumn knife fish." One of the most traditional ways to eat fish is grilled with some soy sauce and grated daikon, but can also be enjoyed as sushi.

Oden

Now oden might not be considered a fall food officially, but who can resist warm, salty broth and delicious, hearty stewed foods on a crisp, autumn day? Oden starts being sold in stores and vendors around August, so the accessibility of the dish makes it so that it can possibly be considered a fall food. Oden is a Japanese hot pot of vegetables and fish cakes simmered in a salty, tasty broth. There are many things added to the dish like daikon, eggs, fishcakes, and gelatinous noodles that make this dish filling. 

Yakiimo/Japanese Sweet Potato

Yakiimo is the quintessential Japanese autumn food. All it really is is a baked, sweet potato, but something about the fall air in Japan, and the hot, filling potato makes it the ultimate comfort food to enjoy. Yakiimo is usually enjoyed with a touch of salt and sometimes butter, but there are also candied versions that are enjoyed with a sprinkle of black sesame seeds.