Alice Gordenker

Alice Gordenker is a Tokyo-based writer. She started her career in journalism reporting from Washington, DC for food industry trade publications on regulation and legislation. Since relocating to Tokyo more than 20 years ago, Alice has made it her "life work" to provide insight on Japan through various media including newspapers, magazines, television and film.

She is delighted to be an early contributor to Japanese Food Guide, where she can once again focus on great things to eat, and how they are grown or made.

What is Chuhai and Why does Alcohol Content Vary Depending on Flavor?

Chuhai is a common Japanese alcoholic beverage but what exactly is it and why does the alcohol content differ depending on what flavor you choose?

A corner of a bento box can be seen with sushi grass separating the meat and vegetable items. Via Getty Images.

The Actual Reason There’s Plastic Grass in Your Bento

Ever wondered why there’s plastic grass in your bento box? We’ll explain why bento grass (or sushi grass) exists and where the culture of using it came from.

A black bowl filled with fluffy white Japanese rice and some sesame seeds sprinkled on top. © Mgg Vitchakorn.

Why do Japanese wash rice and what is “no-wash rice”?

Why wash rice? Is washing rice really necessary? The science behind washing rice and why the Japanese are turning to “no-wash rice” instead.