Obtain certificates in Japanese Cuisine

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About certificates in Japanese Cuisines



Certificates in Japanese Cuisines



Many chefs may want to get a certificate after studying in Japan. There are basically three categories of the certificate that foreign chefs can obtain for Japanese cuisine.



Graduate Certificates of Schools

(卒業証書 – Sotsugyo Shosho)



Both private culinary schools and professional training colleges for culinary arts (Chorishi Senmon Gakko) issue a graduate certificate. Whereas private schools issue a school certificate, professional training colleges issue a diploma.

About the difference between private schools and professional training colleges, see our article of types of school



Certification of cooking skills for Japanese cuisines in foreign countries



The Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries issued “Guidelines for Certification of Cooking Skills for Japanese Cuisine in Foreign Countries” on April 1, 2016 to enhance the overseas promotion of Japanese cuisine and food culture. This guideline aims to promote Japanese cuisine, food culture, and produce appropriately and effectively in foreign countries.

It provides private bodies with common rules so that they can spontaneously certify foreign chefs who acquire a certain level of knowledge and skills for Japanese cuisine. The certification has three categories in accordance with the chef’s experience and knowledge.

As of March in 2019, 913 foreign chefs are certified under this guideline: 8 chefs are ranked Gold, 315 are ranked Silver, and 590 are ranked Bronze.





Cooking License

(調理免許 – Chorishi Menkyo)



When we say a “license” for chefs in Japan, it generally indicates a cooking license. 3.8 million people have obtained the license so far, which is issued to about 40,000 people every year. There are two ways to obtain the license.



1.



After engaging in cooking service at restaurants, including a cafeteria, or food service facilities for two years or more, you need to take an exam conducted by prefectures. Pass the exam and you can apply for the license to the governor of the prefecture where you live.



2.



After graduating from a training facility for chefs, you can apply for the license to the governor of the prefecture where you live.



Not only the Japanese but also foreigners can obtain the license, but its requirements for Japanese proficiency may be a challenging hurdle. For your reference, you can work as a chef at restaurants in Japan even without a cooking license.



The three categories above are not required for learning about Japanese cuisine or finding a job, but a certificate is likely to give you an advantage when you change jobs or apply for a visa.


Participate Japanese Cuisine Competition

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Participate Japanese cuisine competition



Japanese cuisine competition for overseas chefs



Organized by the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries to promote the development of Japanese food culture, there are two annual competitions for overseas chefs of Japanese cuisine. Those who are eligible may participate regardless of their Japanese language skills.

These competitions are recognized by Japanese chefs, and in some cases, the winner gets an internship opportunity. Certainly, winning would lead to improved career prospects. The details are as follows.



World Sushi Cup



Outline



The World SUSHI CUP® is a competition held by the World Sushi Skills Institute. Taking place over three days every August in Tokyo, it will determine the world’s best overseas Sushi Chef. Regional competitions are held around the world until 40 chefs are finally selected to attend based on their knowledge of hygienic preparation methods and technical skills.

On the first day, a formal Kuro-obi (black belt) Workshop will be held, where participants will be asked to prepare Edomae Sushi such as Akagai (Ark Shell), Anago (Eel), Kohada (Japanese Shad), Aji (Horse Mackerel), Hosomaki (thin rolled makizushi) etc. Next, the Edomae Sushi Open Competition will take place on the second day, and is judged on how the participants make and present traditional Nigiri Sushi.

The 20 winners selected from the Edomae Sushi Open Competition will compete in the Creative Sushi Open Competition of the final day, and the winner will be decided by the overall score of the last 2 days.



Summary of World Sushi Cup Japan 2019



〇 Date: August 21 – 23, 2019

〇 Venue: Tokyo Big Sight East 5 / 6 Hall

〇 Eligibility
・Must have at least 5 years of experience making Sushi in Japan or abroad
・Must have WSSI training and certification
Or, must participate in the Kuro-obi (black belt) Workshop held on August 22nd (Wednesday) and qualify as one of the top 20 finalists selected by judges to participate in the Edomae Sushi Open Competition

〇 Organizer:
Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries
WSSI

See the full details of world sushi cup



Short movie on youtube





Washoku World Challenge



Outline



The Washoku World Challenge is a competition where cooks from around the world who work in Japanese restaurants compete to show the greatest passion and technique for Japanese Cuisine.

This Japanese Cuisine cooking contest is also sponsored by the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, and was held for the 6th time in 2019.
The 2019 qualifiers were held in five locations worldwide (Paris, New York, Los Angeles, Bangkok, and Osaka), and the six finalists were invited to the final competition held in Tokyo on January 29, 2019. It will also be held in 2020.

When applying online, you must submit one recipe and two photos of a selected exam dish, and if you pass, you may participate in one of the preliminary rounds held in other places worldwide. Winners of the preliminary rounds will be invited to the final competition in Tokyo. The travel and accommodation expenses for the 2019 final competition were paid for by the organizational committee.

〇The rules of eligibility are as follows.

・Must have more than two years of experience with Japanese Cuisine and must be a nationality other than Japanese (the current place of residence may be Japan or abroad)

・Must be able to participate in one of the preliminary rounds held at locations worldwide

・Past winners and participants may also participate

See the full details of Washoku World Challenge



Short movie on youtube




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Participate food replica workshop

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Participate food replica workshop in Kappabashi



Outline



A unique culture in Japan is the making of food replicas. Workshops to replicate food (such as tempura, lettuce etc.) are held three times a day in the main building.

Shop Name: Ganso Shokuhin Sample-ya
Location: Main Building, 3-7-6 Nishi-Asakusa Taito-ku Tokyo
Starting Times: 11:00 / 14:00 / 16:00
*Almost every day
Length: About 1 hour
Participation Fee: 2,300 Yen
Language: Japanese only
Maximum number of participants: 12
Reservations: Required

* Those who cannot speak Japanese must be accompanied by an interpreter

Official website of Ganso Shokuhin Sample-ya











How to make a reservation



Advanced reservations can only be made by telephone. As this workshop is popular among both Japanese and overseas visitors, it’s very difficult to make last minute reservations. Please reserve in advance and bring an interpreter.

Tel: 0120-17-1839 (Japanese only)



Workshop details



You need to arrive at the Ganso Shokuhin Sample-ya, main building at least 15 min. before the scheduled start time. Please give your reservation name to the cashier, and pay the fee. After paying the fee, you will be shown to the second floor.





On the second floor, you will be given a simple apron, and then you must decide which food replicas to make. You can make two tempura-type replicas, choosing from shrimp, shiitake, pumpkin, pepper, lotus root, eggplant, and sweet potato (these will all be made tempura style) and then lettuce, for a total of three replicas. I chose shrimp and eggplant.



Food replica


The demonstration soon starts. To make the replica, yellow, green and white wax is put into hot water that is about 42°C. Then it is shaped into a replica. In the end it is cooled in room temperature water. You can keep the replicas you make.








Kappabashi

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Visit Kappabashi to purchase kitchen items



Outline



Kappabashi, located near Asakusa, is the biggest dougugai (meaning “a tool street,” a street lined with tool stores) for professional chefs in Japan. You can buy every kind of goods related to food, including Japanese kitchen knives, cookware, tableware, kitchen equipment, baking supplies, food samples, uniforms, and signs. About 170 stores line the street for 800 meters and have been attracting Japanese chefs and those involved in a food service business since the old days.







How to get to Kappabashi?



The nearest station is one stop before Asakusa Station on the Ginza line.







After going through the gate, use Exit 3 to get out of the subway station. Outside the station, you will find Kotobuki 4 intersection behind you, so turn right there. Pass APA Hotel on your right and in a few minutes, you will find Kikuyabashi intersection. There is a big sign of chef, which marks the main street of the Kappabashi area. For 800 meters from this point, almost all of the stores sell goods for a restaurant business.







Pass APA Hotel on your right and in a few minutes, you will find Kikuyabashi intersection. There is a big sign of chef, which marks the main street of the Kappabashi area. For 800 meters from this point, almost all of the stores sell goods for a restaurant business.





When should I go?



The stores usually open from 10:00 to 17:00. Almost all of the stores open Monday to Friday. On Saturdays, a little more than 90% of the stores open and about 30% on Sundays and national holidays. Since the stores tend to be crowded with local customers on weekends, I recommend that you go there during the weekdays.



Shopping Tips



Payment by credit cards



The stores frequented by foreigners accept credit cards, but some may not. It is better to have cash as well.



Overseas Shipping / Tax Refund / Money Exchange



The staff fluent in English will help you with tax exemption application and overseas shipping for what you bought at affiliated stores in Kappabashi. There is also an exchange machine to convert foreign currency to Japanese yen.

Shop Information
Tax Refund Counter
Address: 3-17-5 Matsugaya Taito-ku, Tokyo
Hours: 10:00-18:00

For more details of Tax Refund Counter





ATM



If you do not have cash, you may be able to withdraw cash from an ATM at a convenience store, depending on the type of cards you have. Walk on the Kappabashi main street toward Iriya and you will find Family Mart.

Shop Information
Family Mart Iriya 2chome Branch
2-1-8 Iriya Taito-ku Tokyo







Free Wi-Fi



Some stores offer FREE Wi-Fi. You can also use Free Wi-Fi available throughout Taito-ku.




Shopping



Since I cannot introduce all the 170 stores, I would like to feature some on this page.

As for their location, please see the map below.
(I will introduce the stores in the order shown in the map.)



Dengama



The store specializes in tableware collected from local potters all over Japan. The dishes decorate your table with the sense of each season.

Shop Information
Dengama
Address: 1-4-3 Nishi-Asakusa Taito-ku, Tokyo
Hours: 10:00-19:00
For more details of dengama





Niimi



The prestigious store of tabelware and kitchen equipment was established in 1907. It is well known for its big chef statue standing at the entrance of Asakusa Kappabashi Tool Street.

Shop Information
Niimi
Address:1-1-1 Matsugaya Taito-ku, Tokyo
Hours: 10:00-17:30 (Monday to Saturday)





Kitchen World TDI



The store collects a wide range of goods from up-to-date cooking utensils to professional equipment.

Shop Information
Kitchen World TDI
Address: 1-9-12 Matsugaya Taito-ku, Tokyo
Hours: 9:30-18:30
For more details of Kitchen World TDI





Rice Cooking Net 1,630JPY (About 15USD)




Takahashi Shoten Cookware Store



The store deals with a rich variety of cookware, from a big Zundo pot (a big cylinder-shaped pot), noodle mashine, yakiori grill, okonomiyaki grill to a small tong.

Shop Information
Takahashi Sohonten Cookware Store
Address: 1-1-11 Matsugaya Taito-ku, Tokyo
Hours: 9:45-18:00
For more details of Takahashi Sohonten





Noodle Making Machine 64,800JPY (About 590USD)




Yakitori Grill 27,500JPY (About 250USD)




Okonomiyaki Grill 123,000JPY (About 1,118USD)





Okashi No Mori



The store sells more than 10,000 items of baking essentials.

Shop Information
Okashi No Mori
Address: 1-1-10 Matsugaya Taito-ku, Tokyo
Hours:
Monday to Saturday 9:30-17:20
Holiday 10:00-16:50
For more details of Okashi No Mori







Ramacom



The showroom features professional kitchen equipment, chest freezers, refrigerated showcases, bakery ovens, and so on.

Shop Information
Remacom Kappabashi
Address: 2-1-13 Matsugaya Taito-ku, Tokyo
Hours: 10:00-17:00
For more details of Remacom





Tuna freezer 128,196JPY (About 1,165JPY)




Kamata Knife Shop



The store specializing in kitchen knives has more than 800 kinds of strictly selected items all the time. The knives range from those crafted by an artisan with traditional Japanese techniques to those produced in the modern facilities under the strict oversight.

Shop Information
Kamata Knife Shop
Address: 2-12-6 Matsugaya Taito-ku, Tokyo
Hours: 10:00-18:00
For more details of Kamata Knife Shop





Kama-Asa



The store specializes in cookware and kitchen knives for more than 100 years. It boasts well-designed and functional items, which attract both local and foreign customers. There is a branch in Paris opened in 2018.

Shop Information
Kama-asa
Address: 2-24-1 Matsugaya Taito-ku Tokyo 111-0036
Hours: 10:00-17:30
For more details of Kama-Asa





Kondo Shoten



The only store specializing in bamboo goods on the Kappabashi street. It sells a rich selection of items, including tableware for commercial use, bamboo skewers, tableware and kitchen utensils made of bamboo, bamboo goods for display, and other items related to bamboo.

Shop Information
Bamboo Specialty Store Kondo Shoten
Address: 3-1-13 Matsugaya Taito-ku Tokyo
Hours:
Monday to Friday 9:30-17:30
Saturday 12:00-16:30





Ganso Shokuhin Sample-ya



Food samples were nurtured by the rich restaurant culture in Japan and became a promotional tool that aims to tell the charm of the restaurant with an instant visual appeal. The samples are now supposed to look not only realistic but also “tasty.” Ganso Shokuhin Sample-ya is one of the leading companies among food sample makers. If you visit the store with someone who can speak Japanese, you can participate in a workshop on making food samples.

Shop Information
Ganso Shokuhin Sample-ya
Address: 3-7-6 Nishi Asakusa Taito-ku Tokyo
Hours: 10:00-17:30
For more details of Ganso Sample-ya





Propack Kappabashi



The five-storied store sells items such as ingredients for commercial use, food wrappers, paper products, stationeries and other necessities. I recommend the store for those who want to bulk buy ingredients or get other restaurant-related items.

Shop Information
Propack Kappabashi
Address: 3-7-5 Nishi Asakusa Taito-ku Tokyo
Hours:
9:00-17:30
For more details of Propack Kappabashi









Coffee Union



The store has been selling equipment for cafes for more than 50 years. It deals with various coffee beans and tea leaves as well as brewing equipment for both commercial and home use.

Shop Information
Coffee Union
Address: 2-22-6 Nishi Asakusa Taito-ku Tokyo
Hours:
Monday to Saturday 9:00-18:00
Sunday and National Holiday 10:00-17:00







Tsubaya



The store sells more than 1,500 kinds of kitchen knives, including Japanese and Western kitchen knives, single- and double-bevel knives, knives for home/professional use, or soba (buckwheat noodle) knives.

Shop Information
Tsubaya
Address: 3-7-2 Nishi-Asakusa, Taito-ku, Tokyo
Hours: Monday to Saturday 9:00-17:45
Sunday and National Holiday 9:00-16:45
For more details of Tsubaya





Asahiya



The store has been specializing in shugi-bukuro (a special envelope used for celebration) and cards for more than 100 years. I recommend the store’s shugi-bukuro for tourists from Asia, where there is a custom to send money as a gift on such an occasion as Old New Year.

Shop Information
Asahiya
Address: 3-6-1 Nishi-Asakusa, Taito-ku, Tokyo
Hours: Tuesday to Sunday 10:00-18:00





Curry Land



The store was established by a curry aficionado who has eaten more than 1,900 kinds of local curry all over Japan. The store specializes in retort curry (pre-packaged curry topping) and you will find “10 Most Popular Retort Curry” on the front shelf right when you step in the store.

Shop Information
Curry Land
Address: 2-24-7 Nishi-Asakusa, Taito-ku, Tokyo
Hours: 11:00-19:00
Closed on Tuesday, Wednesday, and occasionally other days for stocking





Soba Hitsuru



This is a department store of soba-related items, including rolling pins, koma-ita (a board to hold soba dough), kiri-ita (a cutting board for soba), kitchen knives, and soba choko (a cup to hold soba dipping sauce).

Shop Information
Soba Hitsuru
Address: 2-22-7 Nishi-Asakusa, Taito-ku, Tokyo
Hours: Monday to Saturday 10:00-17:30
Sunday and National Holiday Closed
For more details of Hitsuru





Iida



Chefs gather from all over the world at this store, which is packed with more than 8,000 kinds of professional cooking utensils, such as peelers and graters.

Shop Information
Iida
Address: 2-21-6 Nishi-Asakusa, Taito-ku, Tokyo
Hours: Monday to Saturday 10:00-19:00
Sunday and National Holiday 10:00-18:00
For more details of Iida









Kanaya Brush



The store specializes in brushes, including pastry and basting brushes. There are diverse brushes with different materials or with a handle of different sizes. You can also order a brush custom-made by artisans.

Shop Information
Kanaya Brush
Address: 1-5-9 Nishi-Asakusa, Taito-ku, Tokyo
Hours: 10:30-17:30





Going to Asakusa



It takes about 10 minutes on foot from Kappabashi to Asakusa. Walk east on the street by the corner of Seven Uniform on the main street.

Go straight through Kaminarimon 1 intersection and you will find Kaminarimon, a landmark of central Asakusa on your left.






How to get from airport to Tokyo?

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How to get from airport to Tokyo?



The Two International Airports of Tokyo



While New York City has three international airports, JFK, Newark and La Guardia, Tokyo has two international airports, Narita and Haneda. Students often ask me which airport they should fly into, and generally, if it makes no difference to the ticket price, I recommend Haneda Airport, as it is closer to Tokyo city. (The distance from Narita Airport to Tokyo Station is 57 km, but from Haneda Airport it is only 15 km.) However, there are more arrivals and departures from Narita Airport and if you check flights from your country, you will probably find there are more Narita bound flights.

People visiting Japan for the first time often worry about getting to and from the airport. Below is a summary of the information you will need for each airport, so please take a look.





People visiting Japan for the first time often worry about getting to and from the airport. Below is a summary of the information you will need for each airport, so please take a look.



Narita Airport



Narita Airport has 3 terminals, called Terminal 1, Terminal 2 and Terminal 3. Terminal 3 is LCCs only, and other carriers use either terminal 1 or 2 depending on the flight.



Airport Wi-Fi



As soon as you arrive at the airport, you can connect to Free Wi-Fi.





Airport Information Center



If you have any concerns or questions, don’t hesitate to visit the airport information center. The staff at the information center speak fluent English and can help you with your concerns.





Buying a SIM Card



You can buy a SIM card at one of the convenience stores inside the airport. Also, there is a vending machine for SIM cards









Buying a converter



You can also buy converters at convenience stores in the airport.





Renting a portable Wi-Fi



The airport has a Wi-Fi rental company where you can rent a portable Wi-Fi. When you go home you can drop it in the return box at the airport.





Renting a mobile phone



You can rent a phone at the mobile phone rental counter.





Exchange Currency



You can exchange currency at the airport. As in most airports around the world, the exchange rates are not very good, so it’s best to exchange only a small amount of money.





ATMs



You can also use ATMs that allow debit withdrawal from overseas cards.





Travel guides and maps



Travel Guides and Maps are available for free in English and Chinese with Simplified Chinese characters, Traditional Chinese characters etc. and other languages.





Transportation to Tokyo (Buses)



Many travelers use either bus or train to get to accommodations in Tokyo City Center. If you are new to Japan, we recommend the bus. Getting in and out of trains and train stations with a suitcase is notoriously difficult, especially during the morning and evening rush hours. Buses can be reserved in advance, or you can purchase a ticket when you arrive. The following are three popular buses you can take from Narita Airport.





The Airport Limousine Bus


3,200JPY (About 29USD)



This is the most popular bus company with buses departing for major destinations such as Tokyo station, Ginza, Shinagawa, Shibuya, Shinjuku, Ikebukuro etc. These buses generally don’t stop at just one place, for example, the bus to Shibuya doesn’t just stop at Shibuya station but also goes to popular hotels etc. in the area.

The easiest thing to do is take the bus to the stop nearest to your accommodations, then take a taxi from there. Then there is no need to walk around with heavy luggage. If your bus drops you off very early or very late, when it’s difficult to find a taxi, then get off at another hotel nearby. Even if it’s not your accommodations, the hotel staff will arrange a taxi for you. Buses have bathrooms, free Wi-Fi, and charging outlets.

The travel time to Tokyo Station is approx. 80 to 100 minutes

For more details of Airport Limousine Bus



Keisei Bus Tokyo Shuttle


1,000JPY (About 9USD)



For those who feel that 3,200 yen is too much to pay for a ride to Tokyo, a more economical bus is the Keisei Tokyo Shuttle which costs 1,000JPY (About 9USD) to get to Tokyo station (some buses stop in Ginza as well). You cannot make reservations for this bus; you must purchase tickets at the airport counter when you arrive. Buses have bathrooms, free Wi-Fi, and charging outlets.

The travel time to Tokyo Station is approx. 70 to 100 minutes

For more details of Keisei Bus Tokyo Shuttle







The access Narita


1,000JPY (About 9USD)



Another bus for those who feel that 3,200 yen is too much to pay to get to Tokyo, this economical bus is similar to the Tokyo Shuttle and will take you to Tokyo station or Ginza station for 1,000 yen. You cannot make advanced reservations for this bus, and you can’t buy tickets at the Narita Airport counter. You need to go directly to the bus stop and pay in cash. These more economical buses are often very crowded, so it might take some time to get on a bus, but the 1000 yen price to Tokyo is good motivation.
Buses have bathrooms, free Wi-Fi, and charging outlets.

The travel time to Tokyo Station is approx. 70 to 100 minutes

The location of the bus stop depends on the terminal, so please check the website of the Access Narita





Transportation to Tokyo (Narita Express)


3,020JPY (About 28USD)



This train stops at major stations in Tokyo such as Ikebukuro, Shinjuku, Shibuya, Tokyo Shinagawa etc. This is a good option for those with backpacks instead of suitcases, or for those who will stay at hotels near the stations. You can buy tickets at the airport counter.

The travel time to Tokyo Station is approx. 90 minutes

Fore more details of Narita Express (Nex)





Transportation to Tokyo (Taxi)


price starts from 20,000JPY (About 182USD)



If you are tired after flying, you can use a taxi, but it is more expensive than bus or train. The fixed fares from Narita Airport to Tokyo station are 20,000 yen during hours from 5:00 – 22:00, and 24,000 yen from 22:00 – 5:00. Additionally, there is a separate 3,000 yen highway toll fee.

The travel time to Tokyo Station is approx. 70 to 100 minutes


Haneda Airport



Also known as Tokyo International Airport, this airport is located 15 kilometers south of central Tokyo and faces Tokyo Bay.

By the way, from ancient times, the eel found off the coast of Haneda was renowned for being delicious, and is still sold in high-end sushi shops and Japanese restaurants. Haneda Airport has three terminals: Domestic Terminal 1, Domestic Terminal 2, and the International Terminal.



Airport Wi-Fi



As soon as you arrive at the airport, you can connect to Free Wi-Fi.





Airport Information Center



If you have any concerns or questions, don’t hesitate to visit the airport information center. The staff at the information center speak fluent English and can help you with your concerns.





Buying a SIM Card



You can buy a SIM card at one of the convenience stores inside the airport. Also, there is a vending machine for SIM cards







Buying a converter



You can also buy converters at convenience stores in the airport.





Wi-Fi Rental / Mobile Phone Rental



These can be rented either at the airport’s Wi-Fi rental company or mobile phone company.





Exchange Currency



You can exchange currency at the airport. As in most airports around the world, the exchange rates are not very good, so it’s best to exchange only a small amount of money.





ATMs



You can also use ATMs that allow debit withdrawal from overseas cards.





Travel guides and maps



Travel Guides and Maps are available for free in English and Chinese with Simplified Chinese characters, Traditional Chinese characters etc. and other languages.





Transportation to Tokyo



Many travelers use either bus or train to get to accommodations in Tokyo City Center. If you are new to Japan, I recommend the bus. Getting in and out of trains and train stations with a suitcase is notoriously difficult, especially during the morning and evening rush hours. Buses can be reserved in advance, or you can purchase a ticket when you arrive. The Airport Limousine Bus is easy to use from Haneda Airport.

* All the prices and estimated times listed below are for Tokyo Station in the Tokyo city center.



Airport Limousine Bus


930JPY (About 9USD)



This is the most popular bus company with buses departing for major destinations such as Tokyo station, Ginza, Shinagawa, Shibuya, Shinjuku, Ikebukuro etc. These buses generally don’t stop at just one place, for example, the bus to Shibuya doesn’t just stop at Shibuya station but also goes to popular hotels etc. in the area. The easiest thing to do is take the bus to the stop nearest to your accommodations, then take a taxi from there. Then there is no need to walk around with heavy luggage. If your bus drops you off very early or very late, when it’s difficult to find a taxi, then get off at another hotel nearby. Even if it’s not your accommodations, the hotel staff will arrange a taxi for you. Buses have bathrooms, free Wi-Fi, and charging outlets.

The travel time to Tokyo Station is approx. 40 to 60 minutes

For more details of Limousine Bus







Train


572JPY (About 5USD)



To ride the train, you need to buy either a ticket from an automatic ticket machine or purchase an IC card called PASMO. The automatic ticket machines default to Japanese, but you can select English on the screen. To buy a PASMO card, you need to select the buy PASMO button, then put cash into the machine and charge the IC card.

To get to Tokyo Station, go to Shinagawa Station by the Keikyu Line, then transfer to the JR line for Tokyo Station. The travel time to Tokyo station is about 30 minutes, and 572 yen is cheaper than the bus, but for overseas visitors, especially with luggage, the Tokyo train system can be very confusing and overwhelming during rush hour. So, until you have had some time to get used to it, I recommend taking the bus.







Taxi


5,900JPY (About 54USD)



The fixed fares from Haneda Airport to Tokyo station are 5,900JPY during hours from 5:00 – 22:00, and 7,100JPY from 22:00 – 5:00.

Additionally, there is a separate 1000 yen highway toll fee.


JP restaurant industry in France

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Japanese restaurant industry

in France


Population



67 million people, as of 2019. 2.2 million people live in Paris.



Japanese residents in France



42,712 Japanese live in France, as of October 2017.



French residents in Japan



13,248 French people live in Japan, as of June 2018.



How to recruit Japanese chefs



The Japanese restaurant industry in France is chronically suffering from a shortage of Japanese chefs, and some new restaurants even try to summon them from Japan. In this case, the chefs need a work visa or a “passport talent visa,” if they have a special skill like a sushi chef with long experience.

If restaurants are looking for a server/assistant chef, they often hire Japanese people who are in France with a student visa or working holiday visa (up to 1 year) as a part-time worker. Yet since these people tend to come and go constantly, it is difficult to manage human resources.

Japanese people are recruited through advertisements on free Japanese newspapers targeting a Japanese community (ONVI, etc.). In central Paris, job postings can be found at stores or institutions frequented by Japanese residents (bookstores, grocery shops, cultural exchange association, etc.) or on a website of community sites. A Japanese recruiting agency may be requested to do the work as well.



How many JP restaurants in France?



According to Study on Restaurants 2014 (Gira Conseil Company), there are about 200,000 restaurants in France. Around 3,000 of them are supposed to be Japanese restaurants (a report by JETRO/Japan External Trade Organization in June 2017).



How many JP restaurants in Paris?



According to “Survey on Japanese Restaurants and Japanese Food Ingredient Distribution in France (Paris)” issued by JETRO in March 2016, there are 12,803 restaurants in Paris. 746 of them are Japanese restaurants (about 6%) and approximately 10% of which are supposed to be run by Japanese.



List of JP food/kitchen item suppliers



〇JFC France S.A.R.L
https://www.jfc.eu/fr/

〇Nishimoto Co.,Ltd. / Wismettac
https://www.wismettac.com/en/index.html

〇Foodex
https://www.foodex.fr/

〇KIOKO
www.kioko.fr

〇Workshop Issé
http://www.workshop-isse.fr

〇Satsuki
https://www.satsuki.fr/

〇Ebisu Poissonnerie et Restaurant
https://www.facebook.com/pg/ebisuParis11

〇Tokaidoya
http://www.tokaido-ya.fr/

〇Umami Paris
https://www.umamiparis.com/fr/

〇JUGETSUDO
http://www.jugetsudo.fr/

〇Kama-Asa Paris
http://www.kama-asa.co.jp/fr/


JP restaurant industry in Italy

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Japanese restaurant industry

in Italy


Population



66 million people, as of 2019.



Japanese residents in Italy



14,146 Japanese live in Italy, as of October 2017.



Italian residents in Japan



4,019 Italian people live in Japan, as of June 2017.



How to recruit Japanese chefs



Since number of work permit for foreign chef is very limited and restaurant owner is required to pay high taxes if hired a foreign chef, majority of restaurants tend to hire skilled local / EU citizen chefs specializing in Japanese cuisine.



How many restaurants in Italy?



According to a report by Federazione Italiana Pubblici Esercizi in December 2013, there are about 160,000 restaurants in Italy.



How many JP restaurants in Italy?



According to “Survey on Japanese Restaurants and Japanese Food Ingredient Distribution in Italy” issued by JETRO (Japan External Trade Organization) in November 2014, there are 630 Japanese restaurants in Italy.

As of August 2019, there are about 1,000 Japanese restaurants are listed in Tripadvisor. Out of 1,000, 400 restaurants are listed in Milan area and 280 are in Roma area.



List of JP food/kitchen item suppliers



Foodex SRL

Gourmet Line (Nipponia)

Gourmet Line (Sushi Sushi)

Get Smart

Union Trade

JFC Europe

Kathay Milano


Buying kitchenware in Osaka

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Buying kitchenware

in Osaka



We recommend the following places when buying kitchenware in Osaka.



Doguya-suji Shopping Street



Did you know Osaka has a “Kitchenware Town” for professional chefs, like Kappabashi in Tokyo? “Doguya-Suji of the West”, lined with specialty stores selling kitchenware, is as equally admired as “Kappabashi of the East” and has a history of more than 130 years.

This 150-meter-long shopping arcade, with around 50 stores, is a gathering place for professional chefs looking for all the necessary items for their restaurant or home, such as cooking utensils and kitchenware, signboards, ceramics, glassware, noren shop curtains, zabuton cushions etc.







How to get the shopping street?



It’s just five minutes on foot from Namba Station in downtown Osaka. If you need help, ask one of the locals; “Doguya-Suji wa doko desu ka?” (where is Doguya-Suji?), as all locals are familiar with this area.





From Midosuji Line, Namba Station



From the underground, use Exit 3 to return to the ground level. Once you enter the Nankai-dori shopping street, turn right at the first crossing and you will see the sign for Doguya-Suji Shopping Street directly ahead of you with the kanji character “道”.



From Nankai Namba Station, South Gate



Exit via the South Gate and you will see a scramble crossing right in front of you. Ahead of the crossing on the left-hand side, you will see the sign for Doguya-Suji Shopping Street with the kanji character “道”.



When should I go?



Most shops are open from 10am to 6pm. Holidays vary by shop.



Tower Knives Osaka



Located next to Tsutenkaku Tower, the symbol of Osaka, this store specializes in Japanese knives from around Osaka, Sakai and across Japan. It draws numerous local and foreign chefs alike. At this famous knife shop, staff speak English and several other languages. Foreign chefs who work at Kaiseki restaurants in Kyoto often visit. A variety of left-handed knives are also available.

As the name Tower Knives suggests, not only are they located in the vicinity of Tsutenkaku Tower in Osaka, but there is also a store close to Tokyo Skytree Tower.

Shop Information
Tower Knives Osaka
Open: 10:00～18:00 Daily
Address: 1-4-7, Ebisuhigashi, Naniwaku, Osaka-shi, Osaka

For more details of Tower Knives Osaka








How to find a chef job in Japan

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How to find a chef job in Japan



Possible to do an internship?



Recently, many chefs want to gain on-site experience in a Japanese restaurant, so is it possible to do a short internship? I often get such questions. The short answer is that there is no system for Stage / Internship in Japan, unlike Europe. Data shows that only 10 – 20 % of restaurants in Japan have any English-speaking staff, and the language used to communicate at work is almost 100% Japanese. Therefore, unless foreigners can speak daily conversational Japanese, finding internship opportunities will be difficult.

Still, although it’s uncommon, some chefs have approached the restaurant owner and explained their enthusiasm for cooking, and were given the opportunity to do an internship at that restaurant.







Chefs who have gotten opportunity



The following are articles featuring interviews of chefs who have gotten internships in Japan, please check them out.

Mr. Rene Redzepi / Noma in Copenhagen

Mr. John Daley / Sushi Ko in New York

Mr. Bryan S. Emperor / USA



How to find an opportunity?



There are no restaurants that have issued internship recruitment notices. It may help if you have connections with people in the restaurant industry in Japan who can suggest a particular restaurant to you, but if you have never been to that restaurant before, the actual conditions and atmosphere may differ from your expectations. If possible, learn about the restaurant by visiting multiple times, become familiar with the food and service, and if you still want to do an internship there, tell the staff about your enthusiasm for cooking. Use easy words and try to explain in as simple and clear a way as possible. Majority of Japanese restaurants are not used to accepting Non-Japanese speakers, and you might be declined, but I know of some chefs who have found an internship this way.



What kind of job will you be given?



The way each restaurant is run is different, so I recommend “When in Rome, do as the Romans.” Even if you are a chef with decades of experience, be prepared to start at the bottom. Until you know well the workings of the shop, there are only a few jobs that you can do.

You may be assigned to simple jobs such as washing dishes, putting out tea, cleaning and so on. This may also be true for overseas restaurants, but in Japan working in a restaurant is hard work. Besides the hard work, not understanding the language will be tough.

Although it’s a good opportunity to learn all kinds of cooking knowledge and techniques on-site, be aware that it might be a much harder job than you can imagine.



What kind of contribution can you make?



Having received the opportunity for an internship in Japan, you might feel that you absolutely want to learn as much as possible, but please remember that restaurant has given you this opportunity. While working, keep in mind that you want to give something back to the restaurant, don’t be only focused on what you can get. If you have this kind of good attitude, it will help you to have a better relationship with your coworkers.





Is there any salary?



Unlike part-time or full-time work, there is no salary for working an internship. If you wish to work part-time or full-time with proper visa, please see the following our article of visa for culinary jobs.



How long is an internship?



The length of the internship will have to be discussed and decided with the restaurant manager. It could be as short as one day to begin with, or it could be as long as 2 – 3 months. In most cases the longest interns can work is three months, as this is the length of a short-term visa and the length you can stay if you are from a visa exempt country.

If you wish to have a three-month internship without pay, you can obtain a Cultural Activities Visa and stay for up to one year.



Japanese restaurant rules



The following are some rules that you will want to know before you start working in Japan



Punctuality



This applies not only in Japan, but in all business in the world and Japanese people see big importance on punctuality. Being on time is considered an absolute must for professionals. Please do not be late working time. However, if you are late for some reason, be sure to contact your manager. Restaurant staff often communicate using an app. Facebook messenger and LINE are very common in Japan, but WhatsApp is not used much.



No Excuses



Of course, cultural differences are unavoidable, but in Japan, when something goes wrong, it is considered a virtue to first apologize. If you really want to explain the reason for the mistake, you must first acknowledge the mistake and apologize, then you may explain.



Tatoos



When working in a Japanese restaurant or sushi shop, having tattoos that customers can see is considered inappropriate. (This is because there is a strong feeling in Japan that associates tattoos with Yakuza gangs.) Therefore, if you have visible tattoos you must discuss this with the manager of the restaurant.

Tattoos that cannot be covered by clothing can sometimes be covered with stickers that are sold at the Don Quijote discount shop in Japan.



Japanese phrases



Before working in a Japanese restaurant these are the most essential phases you must remember and use.





Irashaimase! (Welcome!)



In Japanese restaurants this is said when customers walk into the shop. You should hear this anytime you enter a restaurant in Japan.



Arigato-gozaimashita! (Thank you!)



You say this to show your appreciation to your customers as they leave the restaurant.



Ohayo Gozaimasu! (Good morning!)



In the morning and up to noon, this is said when entering the workplace as a greeting to your co-workers.



Otsukaresama-deshita! (Good job today!)



This is said to your co-workers when you are finished work and leaving for the day.



**-san (Mr./Ms.)



In Japan, older people and people in positions of authority are always called ** – San, to show respect. It’s ok to use **- san after either the last name or the first name. If the manager is Mr. Suzuki, he will be called Suzuki-San.



Of course, it’s much better if you can speak Japanese,
but even if you can’t speak Japanese, you and your co-workers at the restaurant should be able to work comfortably together if you show respect and make an effort to keep smiling.

We hope all of you get the opportunity to work in Japan!