[Chinese food] Surprising! But delicious! Japanese people might not like it.

🥟 Chinese food is hugely popular in Japan, but some dishes can be a bit challenging for Japanese people.
This isn't a matter of taste, but rather a result of differences in culture and eating habits. Here are five Chinese dishes that Japanese people often find hard to eat.

🐸 Bullfrog ~ An Unexpected Texture
Ballfrogs are a popular dish in China. Their outside is as firm as chicken, while their insides are as tender as fish. Stir-frying them with mala (spicy sauce) unleashes a rich, deep flavor.
However, many Japanese people seem to be put off by the very idea of ​​eating a frog.

🐇 Rabbit Heads and Duck Heads ~ Eating the Whole Head
Sichuan specialties, rabbit heads (兔头) and duck heads (鸭头), are typically stewed in a spicy sauce and then torn apart by hand.
The meat around the bone, tongue, and cheeks are packed with flavor. However, the seasoning is quite spicy. It's quite a challenge for Japanese people, both in appearance and in spiciness.

🐔 Chicken Feet (Phoenix Claws) ~ A Bouncy Texture
Chicken feet are a staple menu item in China and often appear in dim sum. They soften when steamed, and are eaten by peeling off the gelatinous substance around the bone.
While their bouncy texture is popular, they're not very common in Japan, and many people are confused about which part of the food to eat.

🐛 Insect Cuisine ~ Preserving Nature's Blessings
Approximately 2 billion people worldwide are said to eat insects on a daily basis. In southern China (e.g., among ethnic minorities) and Southeast Asia, silkworm pupae, crickets, and scorpions are common.
They are characterized by their crispy, fragrant texture and high nutritional value. While they're gaining attention as an environmentally friendly food of the future, in Japan, they're still considered a "brave dish."

🧠 Pig Brains - A Luxury Ingredient with a Melt-in-the-Mouth Texture
Pig brains are often found in hotpot and spicy hotpot dishes. When cooked, they have a melt-in-your-mouth texture, similar to cod milt or oboro tofu.
While considered a luxury ingredient in China, their appearance and texture may be psychologically daunting for Japanese people.

🍽️ Chinese Food Culture
These dishes offer a chance to gain a deeper understanding of Chinese food culture. While you may be surprised by the appearance and taste, behind them lies a long history and philosophy of respecting nature and making the most of every ingredient. Be sure to give them a try during your trip to China!❗️

#ChinaTravel #ChineseGourmet #LocalGuides #Tourism

Post by LocalGuides_JP | Oct 27, 2025

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