Restaurant
2026
The Japan Times Destination Restaurants
6Lists
AwardOverview
The Japan Times Destination Restaurants highlights dining worth travelling for beyond Japan's major cities. Introduced in 2021, it selects ten new restaurants annually with international visitors in mind.
An annual ten-restaurant collection differs from the cumulative archive. The Restaurant of the Year is a separate distinction within the edition.
Source identity and selection context reviewed September 11, 2026. Refer to the linked edition for its dated results.
Explore the The Japan Times Destination Restaurants collections by edition, then compare the recognized places by destination and category.
Quick Facts
- Source
- The Japan Times Destination Restaurants
- Geography
- Regional Japan outside major cities
- Recognition
- Expert-selected annual collection
About
The project focuses on local culinary talent, regional identity and restaurants' connections to their communities.
Selection Process
The 2026 panel comprises Yoshiki Tsuji, Naoyuki Honda and Takefumi Hamada. Its stated principles emphasize regional expressions of land and climate, discovering local talent and differentiating the selection from other rankings.
Significance
Recognition can help identify a culinary destination, but visitors should plan transport, reservations and language arrangements directly with the restaurant.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does this source recognize?
The Japan Times Destination Restaurants highlights dining worth travelling for beyond Japan's major cities. Introduced in 2021, it selects ten new restaurants annually with international visitors in mind.
How should I interpret the award?
An annual ten-restaurant collection differs from the cumulative archive. The Restaurant of the Year is a separate distinction within the edition.
Does recognition guarantee current visitor conditions?
No. Check the venue for current opening times, prices, accessibility and reservation requirements.
How many places have you visited?
Track your progress across the world's best restaurants, hotels, and bars.