The concept washoku is registered as an UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage for being "Traditional Dietary Cultures of the Japanese".

Washoku is a social practice based on a set of skills, knowledge, practice and traditions related to the production, processing, preparation and consumption of food:

1. A Rich Variety of Fresh Ingredients and Respect for Inherent Flavors
2. Nutritional Balance that Supports a Healthy Diet
3. Expressions of the Beauty of Nature and Changing Seasons
4. An Intimate Relationship with Annual Celebrations

On my first night in the outskirts of Tokyo I had a late night dinner which has some elements of washoku, which is written with two characters: 和 means ‘Japan’ or ‘harmony,’ 食 means ‘food’ or ‘to eat.’ The aesthetic presentation of the food is emphasised.