If you’re planning to visit Japan during cherry blossom season, there’s one thing that deserves just as much attention as the sakura itself — the food.
Spring is one of the most beautiful times of year in Japan, but it’s also one of the busiest. Restaurant reservations fill quickly, popular experiences sell out weeks in advance, and travellers often struggle with language barriers when trying to book unique dining experiences.
That’s where byFood comes in.
In this in-depth review, we’ll explore how the byFood platform works, what makes it different from other booking sites, and how you can take advantage of the Spring 2026 Sakura campaign, which offers up to 30% off selected experiences and restaurants.
In This Post
What Is byFood?
byFood is a Japan-based food experience and restaurant reservation platform designed specifically for international travellers.
Unlike general booking websites, byFood focuses entirely on culinary experiences. This includes:
- Guided food tours
- Cooking classes with local chefs
- Tea ceremonies and cultural workshops
- Sake tastings
- Restaurant reservations at high-end and hard-to-book establishments
One of the biggest advantages of byFood is that it removes the Japanese language barrier. Many excellent restaurants in Japan do not accept reservations in English, and some do not even have online booking systems. byFood acts as a bridge between travellers and these establishments.
You can explore the full platform here.
Why Use byFood Instead of Booking Directly?
There are three main reasons travellers choose byFood:
1. English Support & Easy Booking
Everything is clearly explained in English, including menus, dietary options and cancellation policies.
2. Access to Unique Experiences
Many experiences listed on byFood are exclusive or difficult to arrange independently, especially for short-term visitors.
3. Social Impact
For every booking made through byFood, meals are donated to children in need through their Food for Happiness initiative. It’s a meaningful bonus that adds a positive impact to your trip.
byFood Spring 2026 Sakura Campaign – 30% Off
Spring in Japan is synonymous with cherry blossoms, hanami picnics and seasonal cuisine. To celebrate this special time of year, byFood is running a Spring 2026 Sakura campaign from 16 February to 30 April 2026.
What’s Included?
- Up to 30% off selected experiences and restaurant reservations
- Automatic discount applied at checkout
- Limited availability on participating listings
If you’re travelling during March or April, this is one of the best ways to secure premium food experiences at reduced prices.
Recommended byFood Experiences for Spring
Here are a few standout experiences currently featured that are perfect during sakura season.
1. Temari Sushi Making in Nara
Learn to create colourful, bite-sized temari sushi in a hands-on class in Nara. These small decorative sushi balls are perfect for spring and often associated with festive occasions.
This is ideal for travellers who want a practical activity rather than just a meal.
2. Tokyo Sakura Sake Tasting at a Family-Run Izakaya
Enjoy five different sake varieties in a relaxed, local setting. Spring is an excellent time to try seasonal sake releases.
Perfect for couples or small groups wanting an authentic evening experience.
3. Tea Ceremony & Japanese Sweets at Tokyo’s Koboji Temple
Experience a traditional matcha tea ceremony paired with seasonal wagashi sweets.
Spring wagashi are often shaped like cherry blossoms, making this especially atmospheric during hanami season.
4. Kyoto Home Cooking & Riverside Bento Picnic
Cook alongside a local host in Kyoto and enjoy a picnic by the river — a quintessential spring activity.
This combines culture, cuisine and seasonal scenery in one experience.
Featured Restaurants in the Spring Campaign
If you’re looking for something more refined, the Spring campaign also includes premium restaurant reservations.
A classic high-quality sushi counter experience in Tokyo.
The best of Edomae sushi and Kansai sushi come together in this Kitashinchi restaurant, with a touch of the modern thanks to Tiffany & Co tableware.
Though the highlight — not the entirety — of Matsumiya’s course is wagyu, this charmingly hidden restaurant fully embraces the simplicity and spirit of traditional Japanese cuisine.
Sushi Tempura Gion Iwai (Kyoto)
Sushi Tempura Gion Iwai offers a combination rarely found in Kyoto; crunchy tempura with traditional Edomae-style sushi.
Is byFood Worth It?
If you’re the kind of traveller who:
- Wants authentic local experiences
- Values convenience and English support
- Is visiting during peak season
- Struggles with Japanese restaurant booking systems
Then yes — byFood is absolutely worth considering.
Spring is particularly competitive. During cherry blossom season, even mid-range restaurants can be fully booked days in advance. Securing reservations through a reliable platform can remove unnecessary stress from your trip.
Final Verdict: A Smart Way to Experience Japan Through Food
Japan’s food culture is deeply seasonal. Spring menus highlight delicate flavours, fresh seafood, bamboo shoots and sakura-themed sweets. Combining these seasonal dishes with cherry blossom viewing creates some of the most memorable travel experiences you can have in Japan.
The byFood Spring 2026 campaign makes these experiences more accessible thanks to its 30% discount on selected listings.
If you’re planning a trip between February and April 2026, I’d recommend browsing the campaign early and booking ahead.
Explore all Spring 2026 offers here
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