Japanese cuisine, also known as washoku, is a diverse and vibrant culinary tradition that has been refined over centuries. It typically includes fresh and seasonal ingredients, and emphasizes the use of soy sauce, miso, sake, and Japanese rice vinegar. Popular dishes include sushi, sashimi, tempura, udon noodles, and ramen. Japanese cuisine also places great emphasis on presentation, with a focus on beautiful plating and garnishes to complement the flavors of each dish. Many Japanese dishes are also associated with traditional ceremonies and rituals, such as the tea ceremony and the Kaiseki multi-course meal. Overall, Japanese cuisine is admired for its balance of flavors, subtle artistry, and dedication to high quality ingredients.