That was my exact reaction the first time I visited Tokyo.

As everyone around me delved right into the food without hesitation, I was puzzled.

Why was no one else confused by the selection?

alt

After all, it did look and smell delicious.

So, what exactly made this Japanese-style breakfast so special?

Whoa, it tastes good, and itsthatgood for you?

Close-up of sliced purple cabbage,

…

Heres how it went.

What is Japanese breakfast, and what do Okinawans eat in the morning?

The predominantly plant-basedOkinawan dietis typically high in nutrients and low in calories.

soba noodles

(BTW, we have all the answers to your burning question:is miso soup healthy?)

To keep things super simple, I air-fried Japanese yams until soft and creamy in the center.

Best of all, I saved any leftovers to throw into smoothies for an instantly creamier and richer consistency.

a woman pours maple syrup onto a stack of pancakes covered in strawberries

All around, I felt less sluggish and happier throughout the day.

…

Got it, you’ve been added to our email list.

Broth in Bowl on gray background, healthy food, top view.

…

maple syrup in glass bottle on wooden table

Protein isolate powder. Unflavored whey protein in measuring scoop and drinking glass in bright sunlight.