Managing meals in Japan

Cheryl Moderator

Member since 15 October 2018

CherylModerator21 November 2025 09:28:56

15108

Hello everyone,

Managing meals day-to-day can sometimes be a real mental challenge, even more so when you land in a new environment, with different schedules, habits or ingredients. How do you manage your meal routine as an expat in Japan? We invite you to share your experience in order to help fellow expats and soon-to-be expats.

What are the main changes you have made to your meal routine since settling in Japan?

Did you face any challenges to adapt to new meal habits?

Do you cook fresh meals everyday or do you meal prep? Why?

If you live with your family, do you prepare meals for everyone for school or work? Are canteens available?

Do you usually eat out for lunch or dinner or do you prefer eating at home?

What surprised you the most about meals in Japan, either in terms of habits, timing, portions, meal composition, food culture, etc.?

Share your insights, experience and meal routines!

Thank you for your contribution.

Cheryl
Expat.com Team

wyngrove60 Serial expat

Member since 08 May 2021

wyngrove60Serial expat18 January 2026 19:50:57

404

I don't think this is an issue when living in Japan. At the very least, since there are minimarts such as 7-Eleven, Family Mart, Lawson etc all over the place, you can easily find something easy to eat. You can find a supermarket nearby, prices drop hugely after 6pm for fresh food and meals. Restaurants and bars are everywhere and you can usually find an Italian restaurant nearby. I think Japan is one of the nicest places to find good food and inexpensive food for cooking at home.