Discover the Delicious Difference: Kansai-style vs Kanto-style Unagi in Japan When many foreign travelers visit Japan, one dish that often steals the spotlight is grilled eel , or うなぎ(unagi). Its smoky aroma, perfectly caramelized glaze, and melt-in-your-mouth texture make it a memorable culinary experience. Yet, few visitors realize that Japan has two distinct regional ways of preparing unagi — Kansai-style and Kanto-style . If you love exploring Japanese food culture, learning the story behind these two versions will add a new layer of flavor to your trip.