Vol. 36: FROM THE EDITOR

This year we present the fourth annual edition of Destination Restaurants, with a brand-new list of 40 restaurants. From the outset we have distinguished this initiative from other international guides and rankings by showcasing restaurants chosen by Japanese specialists for the way they reflect the nation’s climate and spirit. The list’s uniqueness starts with what it excludes — namely any restaurant within Tokyo’s 23 wards or any other major city. The list is shaped by three principles: that the true expression of Japan is to be found outside its cities; that it is important to unearth the regional culinary talents that might otherwise go unnoticed; and that the list must be different from existing guides.

Perhaps due to the weak yen, international visitor numbers are now rocketing back to pre-COVID levels. My greatest hope is that some of those visitors will let Destination Restaurants be their guide as they discover the food and other riches of Japan’s regions.