#Japan #Tokyo #Nexco #Local Delicacies #Highway Cuisine

The 2nd NEXCO East Japan Highway Cuisine Championship

The 2nd NEXCO East Japan Highway Cuisine Championship is in full swing, aimed at determining the top gourmet dish among the 'Highway Meals' offered at service areas and parking areas across the region. This year, 14 finalist dishes have emerged from an impressive pool of 125 entries, all thanks to the enthusiastic participation of customers who cast a remarkable 89,897 votes during the preliminary rounds.

Championship Details

The final championship will be held from January 15 until March 15, 2024, with the announcement of results slated for April of the same year. Customers eager to participate can share their taste preferences by voting for their favorite dishes. The goal is to not only crown the number one dish but also to promote local ingredients and culinary traditions as part of attracting tourism and enhancing the overall experience at service areas.

How to Participate

Voting can be done in two ways:
1. In-Person Voting at SA/PA: Customers dining on the finalist dishes can receive a voting card to cast their votes on the spot.
2. Social Media Voting: For those unable to visit in person, there’s an exciting option to vote through social media platforms. Voters will also be entered into a lucky draw for a chance to win digital gift vouchers worth 10,000 yen.

To celebrate the 20th anniversary of this event, every customer who orders a finalist dish during the championship will receive a 200 yen shopping coupon to use at the store. Additionally, there are special prizes available, including an exclusive JTB gift, regional specialties, and local souvenir sets for lucky voters!

Highlighting Local Flavors

NEXCO East Japan strives to transform service areas and parking areas into showcases of local culinary delights. This initiative not only aims to provide a satisfying dining experience but also stresses the importance of regional flavors, making every visit a flavorful journey. The collaboration between local characters and the championship highlights the unique offerings of each region, encouraging a sense of community and pride.

Meet the Highway Cuisine Ambassador

The role of promoting these local delicacies is taken up by the Highway Cuisine Ambassador, Hashi (Hayashi Hashimoto). Possessing qualifications as a meat expert and rice sommelier, Hashi has traveled extensively across Japan, tasting food from 15,000 establishments out of his own pocket. With a social media following exceeding 600,000, he is dedicated to celebrating the nation's culinary diversity and has taken up advisory roles to promote local strengths.

A Road Trip Enhanced

NEXCO East Japan has launched the 'ENJOY! Yoriguchi' promotion to enrich the experience of drivers traveling the highways. When on the road, consider taking a detour to explore the unique 'Highway Meals' available, making your trip not just about the destination but an engaging culinary adventure.

For more details on the championship and dishes, check the special website: Drive Plaza Highway Cuisine. Get ready to indulge in some delightful flavors and create lasting memories on your journey!

For inquiries related to the championship, please reach out via email to:
[email protected]