byFood Launches Japanese and Korean Versions to Enhance Culinary Experiences for Foreign Visitors

byFood Expands to Offer Japanese and Korean Versions

In a significant move to enhance culinary experiences for foreign visitors, byFood has launched its website in both Japanese and Korean languages. This initiative aims to facilitate easier access for travelers, particularly those from Korea, enabling them to effortlessly explore and book various culinary experiences and restaurants across Japan in their native languages. The platform's goal is to create a more welcoming environment where international guests can enjoy Japan's rich food culture while promoting local attractions and fostering international exchanges.

Background and Purpose

As the number of foreign visitors to Japan is on the rise, reaching an impressive 21.5 million in the first half of 2025, the demand for easier access to local experiences has surged. This increase is part of a broader trend highlighted by JTB, which forecasts that the total number of foreign visitors will surpass 40 million by the end of 2025.

In light of the post-pandemic recovery, there is a renewed interest in domestic travel, with many seeking to immerse themselves in local food cultures. As a response, byFood has expanded its language offerings beyond English and Chinese to include both Japanese and Korean, integrating an approach that makes the diverse culinary experiences and regional discoveries in Japan more accessible to both international and domestic users.

About byFood

byFood positions itself as a specialized platform dedicated to promoting Japan's unique gastronomic experiences through culinary tourism. The service caters to visitors before and during their travels: it operates as an online media outlet that shares information about Japan's food culture and local charms in English while functioning as an online travel agency that allows users to search and book food experiences and dining options.

Additionally, byFood is committed to social impact by donating 10 meals to school lunch programs in developing countries for every booking made. Since its inception, the platform has supported approximately 890,000 meals and aims to act as a bridge connecting Japan and the world through food.

Key Features of byFood

- Pre-payment System: By requiring pre-payment at the time of booking, the platform minimizes the losses from cancellations or no-shows, safeguarding the revenue of restaurants and organizers.
- 24/7 Concierge Service: Customer service is available year-round in English and Japanese to assist with bookings, changes, and special requests smoothly.
- Performance-Based Fee Structure: By charging fees only on confirmed bookings, byFood eliminates the risk for service providers, allowing them to attract customers without upfront costs.
- Compelling Content Creation: Using professionally written descriptions and captivating photographs, byFood maximizes the appeal of listed experiences and venues.
- Multilingual Support: The platform accommodates a diverse range of travelers by providing support in multiple languages, including English, Chinese (traditional and simplified), Japanese, and Korean.
- Social Contribution Feature: With each booking, users also contribute to international aid, showcasing how participation in local culinary experiences can have a global impact.

Future Developments

Looking ahead, byFood plans to expand its language offerings further to include Thai and French, thereby strengthening its outreach to markets across Asia and the West. Collaboration with local governments and tourism businesses will be prioritized to further promote regional culinary experiences in multiple languages, driving regional revitalization and facilitating international exchanges centered around food.