From the traditional dishes served at rural hot-spring ryokan inns, to Buddhist temple tea ceremonies, to the restaurantfilled high-rise madness of Tokyo, Japan expresses itself through its food. This guide takes you on a journey through all of Japan's culinary life. We go beyond the familiar sake and sushi, covering the essentials - dashi (stock), bento boxes and soba noodles, and the exotic - fermented soy beans, matsutake mushrooms, and fish that still wriggle as they slide down your throat. Itadakimasho ! Let's eat !

- the essential guide to the culture of food and drink in Japan

- celebrating the seasons with Japan's calendar of festivals

- an exploration of the regional influences that make up Japanese cuisine

- shopping and eating out in Japan as well as understanding the menu

- the definitive culinary dictionary, a quick reference glossary and useful phrases for every food and drink occasion

- tantalising photography and recipes