The Japanese are known for innovation and their take on the discount store does not disappoint.

Japan’s vending machines have always been a topic of discussion among travelers who come to this country astounded by the sheer number and variety that can be found.

Diversification in the Japanese diet has brought variety to the foods sold in standard grocery stores catering to the average Japanese consumer. More Chinese and Korean spices have appeared in the aisles, the selection of breads and cheeses have expanded, and more spaces have been sectioned off specifically for international foods.

Happoshu, or low malt beers, were introduced in Japan in the 1990s. Low malt beers contain the same ingredients as regular beers ? malt, hops, water and yeast ? and low malt beers are brewed using the same process as regular beers.

Frozen food is very much part of the Japanese daily life, especially for those who need a quick way to prepare their meals during their busy schedules.

Ameyoko, short for Ameya Yokocho meaning candy store alley, is a crowded market street along the Yamanote line train tracks near Ueno station.

The Tsukiji fish market located in Tsukiji in central Tokyo is a major tourist attraction being the largest wholesale fish and seafood market in the world and surprisingly also one of the largest wholesale food markets of any kind.

Yokohama Chukagai, located southern west of Tokyo in the old downtown area of port city Yokohama, is the largest Chinatown in Japan and one of the largest in the world.

The convenience stores or combini as they are known in Japan, are the second home of many busy singles in Japan looking to find a cheap effortless dinner or midnight snack.