When Ambika Online Shop first launched, our core customers were primarily individuals from India residing in Japan. Over time, our presence has expanded to include a growing number of Japanese customers with an interest in Indian culture and cuisine. Today, in addition to individual households, a diverse range of customers—including cafés and restaurants—regularly shop with us.

We are now proud to welcome visitors from across Asia, including Nepal, Myanmar, Vietnam, Thailand, Indonesia, and China, who cross cultural borders to explore our offerings.

Among these countries, Myanmar—a Southeast Asian nation known for its rich natural landscapes and multi-ethnic society—has seen a notable increase in migration to Japan in recent years. As a result, hearing the Burmese language in Japanese cities is becoming increasingly common.

In this article, we will explore the culinary life of Burmese people living in Japan, delving into Myanmar’s food culture and history.

 

 

A Country of Diversity and Transformation

Bordering Thailand, China, and India, Myanmar has long been shaped by a blend of cultural influences. While Buddhism is widely practiced, the country is home to over 130 ethnic minorities, each with its own distinct language and traditions. This deep-rooted diversity is one of Myanmar's defining features.

Recent political and economic instability has led many to seek a better life abroad, with Japan emerging as one of the destinations of choice.

 

Food Culture of Burmese People in Japan

Please note: The examples presented in this article are not representative of all individuals but serve as personal case insights.

No matter where one lives, the taste of home remains irreplaceable. In Japan—where seasonal vegetables, dashi, and fermented condiments define local cuisine—how do Burmese people recreate the flavors of their homeland?

 

1. Rice
Myanmar is known as a rice-centric country. One of the most popular varieties is Paw San Hmwe, a fragrant rice with a loose texture, similar to basmati or jasmine rice, and quite different from the stickier Japanese rice.

2. Fermented Foods
Fermented fish and shrimp pastes are commonly used as base seasonings, adding deep umami to many dishes.

3. Fresh Herbs and Vegetables
Coriander, onions, and garlic frequently appear as garnishes or side elements, bringing freshness and depth to meals.

4. Spices and Legumes
Myanmar’s spice palette is mild compared to Indian cuisine. Turmeric, cumin powder, and coriander powder are staples, while paprika powder is sometimes homemade for coloring. Legumes such as mung beans, chickpeas, and lentils are often used. White peas are sprouted and added to salads.

5. Oil-Rich Cooking Methods
Traditional Burmese dishes often use generous amounts of oil, not only for frying but also for braising and stewing.

6. Signature Dishes

• Mohinga: A rice noodle soup with a fish broth base—considered the national breakfast dish.

• Lahpet Thoke: A salad of fermented tea leaves, fresh vegetables, nuts, and sesame, offering a tangy and aromatic flavor profile.

• Kyet Thar Hin: A chicken curry made with sautéed onions, garlic, ginger, spices, tomato, and fish sauce, and slowly simmered.

7. Culinary Ties with India
Myanmar’s culinary landscape shows noticeable influences from neighboring India. In cities like Yangon, dishes such as samosas, chapati, and paratha are widely familiar. A special dish known as Danbauk (Myanmar’s version of biryani) is often prepared with basmati rice for celebrations like birthdays, weddings, or Buddhist festivals.

 

 

Living abroad is never easy. Burmese residents in Japan often source ingredients from Myanmar or Vietnamese grocery stores, Japanese supermarkets, online shops, and even through social media platforms.

Recently, more individuals have been sharing their daily meals and lifestyle tips via social media, showcasing creativity and resilience as they recreate their native cuisine with locally available ingredients.

At Ambika Online Shop, we are continuously expanding our product collections to better meet the diverse needs and interests of our customers. We hope our offerings become a helpful part of your daily life!

Myanmar cuisine မြန်မာဟင်းလျာ