Japan’s culinary scene is booming, with Tokyo snatching the title of world’s best food city from Paris, boasting more Michelin stars than any other. This Tuesday at 8:00pm, ABC Australia’s “Foreign Correspondent” dives into this foodie frenzy in its latest episode, “S35E9,” exploring why Aussies, in particular, are hooked. With nearly a million Australians predicted to visit Japan this year, the show investigates what’s driving this culinary craze.
The episode follows ABC’s north Asia correspondent, James Oaten, as he explores the heart of Japan’s food obsession. Oaten’s journey spans the culinary spectrum, from humble onigiri lunch shops to the bustling energy of top ramen joints. He’ll uncover the elements that make Japanese food culture so unique.
“Foreign Correspondent” sets the scene in Tokyo, now home to more Michelin-starred restaurants than even Paris. This backdrop serves as the starting point for Oaten’s investigation into Japan’s remarkable food culture. He seeks to understand the hidden ingredients that make this nation a culinary powerhouse.
Oaten’s quest takes him to meet some of the leading figures in Japanese cuisine. He sits down with a tuna expert to learn the secrets of sourcing the finest fish, gains insights from a top sushi chef on the art of this delicate dish, and even encounters a 96-year-old eel master, a testament to the dedication and tradition within Japanese cooking. Through these encounters, the program explores the dedication, skill, and deep cultural connection that propels Japan’s food scene to global acclaim.
“Foreign Correspondent” airs Tuesday, 22 April, at 8:00pm on ABC Australia and is available to stream on ABC iview.
