Kanda University Students Collaborate with JR East to Launch World-Inspired Rice Balls at NewDays

Partnership between Kanda University and JR East

In an exciting collaboration, students from Kanda University of International Studies have teamed up with JR East Cross Station to launch a limited-time product called "World-Inspired Rice Balls". From October 14, 2025, these unique rice balls, featuring globally inspired flavors, will be available at select NewDays stores in the JR East region.

The project is designed to provide a taste of different cultures, merging international perspectives with culinary creativity. Led by Professor Takayuki Tsuruoka from the Faculty of Foreign Languages, the initiative has allowed students to apply their language and cultural studies to real-world product development.

Unique Offerings

Three distinct rice ball flavors were developed, each reflecting the essence of a beloved international dish:
1. Seafood Paella Rice Ball (240 yen)
- Inspired by Spain’s famous paella, this rice ball features a mix of sticky rice with squid, clams, red peppers, and onions, topped with shrimp for a colorful presentation.
- Available in the Tokyo metropolitan area and prefectures including Shizuoka, Nagano, Miyagi, Fukushima, Yamagata, Iwate, and at Niigata Station.

2. Nasi Goreng Rice Ball (220 yen)
- This offering brings the flavors of Indonesian nasi goreng to the rice ball format. It combines soy sauce rice cooked with onions and ground chicken, sautéed in a spicy nasi goreng sauce, finished with colorful bell peppers and a hint of coriander powder.
- Available in the same regions as the Seafood Paella Rice Ball.

3. Bibimbap Rice Ball with Cheese and Samgyeopsal (380 yen)
- Inspired by the Korean dish bibimbap, this rice ball is packed with sesame oil-fried vegetables, kimchi, and cheesy samgyeopsal, giving it a hearty twist.
- Also available in the Tokyo metropolitan area and the specified prefectures.

These rice balls are more than just a meal; they promise to transport consumers on a culinary journey with every bite, perfect for those who have been unable to travel due to recent global challenges.

Background of the Project

Over the course of this project, the students engaged in numerous meetings and taste tests with the JR East team. They aimed to create products that would make world cuisines more accessible to a wider audience. The students, who are deeply familiar with different cultures through their studies, played an integral role in shaping the flavors and presentation of the rice balls.

Student Reflections

The lead representative of the student group, Asumi Sasame, a fourth-year student specializing in International Business Communication, shared, "Our goal was to allow people who haven’t been able to travel due to the pandemic to experience international flavors in their daily lives. Many students were eager to recreate their favorite dishes from abroad, leading to the idea for the rice balls. "

Asumi also expressed excitement about how collaboration among students has led to a richer variety of ideas, enhancing the final products. The team has worked diligently to ensure that the flavors and textures complement the rice, leading to satisfying and delicious results.

A Look into NewDays

Operated by JR East Cross Station, NewDays is committed to providing convenient shopping experiences with quality products and services that meet daily needs. Their new brand, “Nutus,” features original products designed to support their customers’ lifestyles, ensuring that every visit brings a touch of enjoyment.

This collaboration exemplifies how education and industry partnerships can yield innovative and culturally rich products that cater to diverse consumer tastes. Whether for a quick snack or a delightful culinary experience, the World-Inspired Rice Balls are set to be a hit!

Conclusion

As the launch date approaches, anticipation builds among students and faculty alike. The unique rice balls promise not only to tantalize taste buds but also to deliver a message about global connection through food. For those looking for a quick escape through flavors, these rice balls are sure to deliver an enjoyable experience, bringing the world a little closer with each bite.

Be sure to visit a NewDays location starting October 14, 2025, and dive into these delicious creations that celebrate the diversity of global cuisine!