About KitchenStart JP

Empowering English speakers to cook confidently in Japan

Supporting English Speakers in Japan

KitchenStart JP was created to help English speakers navigate cooking in Japan. We understand the unique challenges you face - from deciphering ingredient labels to working with compact kitchen spaces.

Our mission is to provide clear, step-by-step guidance that helps you learn cooking fundamentals while respecting both your learning pace and Japan's food culture.

Cooking in Japanese kitchen

Japan-First Cooking Philosophy

Local Ingredients Focus

Every recipe uses ingredients readily available in Japanese supermarkets, with both English and Japanese names provided.

Small Kitchen Solutions

Techniques and recipes specifically adapted for compact Japanese apartment kitchens and limited counter space.

Step-by-Step Clarity

Detailed photo instructions that eliminate guesswork and build confidence with each successful dish.

Developing Cooking Skills

Cooking skill development

We believe that cooking skills can be developed over time, regardless of your starting point. Our progressive learning approach begins with fundamental techniques like properly boiling pasta and gradually introduces more complex dishes like homemade bento boxes.

Each recipe is tested in real Japanese kitchens by English speakers, helping ensure that our instructions are practical for your actual cooking environment.

Community-Driven Development

5,000+

English speakers in Japan using our guides

200+

Recipes with photo instructions

50+

Supermarket and ingredient guides

Supporting Your Learning Journey

Beyond recipes, we provide comprehensive support for your cooking journey in Japan. Our grocery guides help you navigate supermarket aisles, our kitchen setup advice helps you work with small spaces, and our ingredient substitution guides provide alternatives when needed.

We're committed to helping make your transition to cooking in Japan as smooth as possible, one dish at a time.