#Japan #Tokyo #Seven-Eleven #Local Products #Gourmet Fair

Seven-Eleven Japan's Gourmet Fair: A Taste of Local Delights

Seven-Eleven Japan, headquartered in Chiyoda, Tokyo, is set to launch its exciting nationwide gourmet fair, titled the "Umai Mono Ketteisen" (Delicious Food Championship), from November 4 to 17. This initiative divides the country into 11 distinct regions, each offering exclusive local ingredients and beloved regional menu items. The fair aims to celebrate Japan's rich food culture with regional specialties and valuable local ingredients, further driving local economic growth as well as social value creation through food education initiatives.

What to Expect

This year’s fair responds to consumer demand for trying popular regional items outside their own locality. Seven-Eleven will introduce an array of national selected products including traditional rice balls and warm noodles from different regions. Notable selections include:

• - Kim-Taku Fried Rice Rice Ball from Nagano, capturing the essence of school lunch recipes.
• - Yuzu Mentaiko Rice Ball, prominently featuring the renowned spicy mentaiko from Fukuoka.
• - Nagaoka Ginger Soy Sauce Ramen, a comfort food that embodies the regional flavor from Niigata.
• - Yokohama Tanmen, known for its hearty taste from Kanagawa.

The fair not only promotes selected nationwide items, but also highlights local favorites that can only be found in specific areas, allowing shoppers to experience culinary diversity. Consumers are encouraged to compare the flavors of national products with local offerings.

Commitment to Local Consumption

The nationwide fair is part of a more extensive initiative that began in October 2024, focusing on connecting local communities and economic resilience. One of the guiding principles of this initiative is fostering a society that thrives in harmony with the community. Seven-Eleven is committed to showcasing the unique food cultures across Japan by actively utilizing local produce, thus supporting local farmers and contributing to regional economies. The philosophy extends beyond simply providing tasty choices; it's about connecting customers with the producers and enhancing the community’s future through their purchasing decisions.

Featured Products: National Selected Items

Week 1 (Available from November 4)

1. Chicken and Burdock Flavor Rice Ball
Price: ¥140 (tax included: ¥151.20)
Description: A beloved rice ball from Tohoku using Aomori burdock root and chicken, featuring a hearty texture.

2. Kim-Taku Fried Rice Rice Ball
Price: ¥170 (tax included: ¥183.60)
Description: A school meal-inspired dish from Shiojiri, combining kimchi and pickled daikon for a crunchy flavor.

3. Yuzu Mentaiko Rice Ball
Price: ¥138 (tax included: ¥149.04)
Description: Delightful rice ball flavored with yuzu and spicy mentaiko, perfect for lovers of traditional tastes.

4. Nagaoka Ginger Soy Sauce Ramen
Price: ¥598 (tax included: ¥645.84)
Description: A comfort staple featuring ginger and tender pork, simmered to extract deep flavors.

5. Yokohama Tanmen
Price: ¥530 (tax included: ¥572.40)
Description: Definition of a classic Tanmen, robustly flavored with a perfect mix of chicken and pork stock.

6. Buried Burdock Tempura Udon
Price: ¥460 (tax included: ¥496.80)
Description: A striking dish boasting crispy burdock tempura paired with a delicious broth.

Week 2 (Available from November 11)

1. Special Sauce Stir-fried Rice with Shrimp Rice Ball
Price: ¥168 (tax included: ¥181.44)
Description: A popular dish from Okayama, featuring sweet and spicy shrimp sauce with a delightful Mai.

2. Tarako Butter Soy Sauce Rice Ball
Price: ¥150 (tax included: ¥162)
Description: A savory twist combining butter-soy sauce and roe, creating a comforting experience.

3. Kitakata Ramen
Price: ¥560 (tax included: ¥604.80)
Description: Celebrated nationwide, featuring a light soy sauce broth with savory pork flavor.

4. Nagoya's Taiwanese Ramen
Price: ¥550 (tax included: ¥594)
Description: A local favorite featuring spicy minced meat and a bold flavor that captivates taste buds.

5. Gunma's Okirikomi
Price: ¥530 (tax included: ¥572.40)
Description: A specialty noodle dish simmered in a delicious broth packed with flavors from vegetables and chicken.

Conclusion

Through this fair, Seven-Eleven aims to connect people with regional specialties that celebrate unique gastronomic traditions. The initiative truly stands for more than just promoting local food, but rather, it aspires to foster community growth and consumer awareness in appreciating the heritage behind these culinary treasures. As you stop by your local Seven-Eleven, be sure to explore not only the local selections but also the exquisite flavors from other regions across the nation. Enjoy!

[Please note that prices may vary by location and are inclusive of a reduced consumption tax.]