#Japan #Tokyo #Kumamoto #Nori-Bento #Uto-Amakusa

Unique Japanese Cuisine: Nori-Bento from Uto-Amakusa

In the heart of Japan, a culinary journey unveils the unique flavors of Kumamoto with the introduction of the latest addition to the Nori-Bento series by Nori-Bento Yamanobori Co., Ltd. Founded by CEO Yoshikazu Wagatsuma, this esteemed company from Chuo-ku, Tokyo, will launch the Nori-Bento "Kumamoto Prefecture: Uto-Amakusa's Cuisine" on September 17, 2025. This delightful offering is the eighth installment of the company's "Local Japanese Cuisine" series.

Abundant Local Ingredients

The essence of Nori-Bento lies in its signature seaweed. Since its inception, the company has committed to using the finest seaweed from Aari Bay, a staple of Uto in Kumamoto. Only the best seaweed from the Ami-ta Fishing Cooperative is selected to ensure an authentic taste. The seaweed, cultivated in a region where the land and sea are inherently connected, is complemented by local produce to create a meal that honors both the fishermen's dedication and the surrounding environment.

Two Exclusive Types of Bentos

1. Nori-Bento "Kumamoto Prefecture: Uto-Amakusa's Cuisine"

Developed in collaboration with local municipalities, including Amakusa City, the preparation of this bento took over a year. It features aromatic seaweed from Uto and provides customers with a culinary experience that includes freshly air-freighted live tai (Miyabi Tai) that is salt-grilled, and new rice (Amakusa Five-Star Rice) sourced from the mountains of Amakusa, showcasing the region's culinary excellence.

2. Nori-Bento "Kumamoto Prefecture: The Sea of Citizens - Supreme"

This bento is a collaboration with the popular local furikake brand "Gohan no Tomo" (by Futaba Co.), utilizing the same seaweed from Nori-Bento Yamanobori's production. It aims to capture the essence of Kumamoto in a delightful meal that boasts familiarity among local citizens. Additionally, limited editions of "Furikake Gohan no Tomo (Amita Nori)" will be available in stores during this period.

Collaborating Local Producers

Nori-Bento Yamanobori is proud to partner with various local producers, including:

• - Blue seaweed from Ami-ta Fishing Cooperative, Uto City
• - Sardine from Tenei Food, Amakusa City
• - Soy sauce from Maruya Co., Uto City
• - Rice from Ai-ran Farm, Amakusa City
• - Traditional eggs from Nasu Farm, Uki City
• - Spinach namul using Maruya's "Magical Dipping Sauce"
• - Homemade shiso kamaboko from Matsushita Kamaboko Store, Amakusa City
• - Lemon boiled sweet potatoes from Amakusa Food Rainbow
• - Grilled tai from Sakata Suisan, Amakusa City
• - Ageless lotus rice cake using lotus from Takahama Lotus Garden
• - Tofu and local fish shinjo using Matsushita Kamaboko's "Surimi"
• - Furikake from Futaba Co., Kumamoto City

All ingredients are sourced from the picturesque Amakusa Saki Tsukigata area, where seaweed is cultivated in a serene coastal environment, further elevating the quality of Nori-Bento's offerings.

Product Details

• - Product Names: 1) Nori-Bento Kumamoto "Uto-Amakusa's Cuisine" / 2) Nori-Bento Kumamoto "The Sea of Citizens - Supreme"
• - Prices (including tax): 1) 2,600 yen / 2) 1,350 yen
• - Sales Period: From September 17, 2025, until around December
• - Sales Locations: Nori-Bento Yamanobori stores and various wholesalers. A special sale will be hosted at the Kumamoto Tsuruya Department Store for one week starting September 17.

About the Local Japanese Cuisine Series

This initiative digs deep into regional "ingredients" and "dishes" to selflessly promote their unique stories and flavors, enriching Japan's culinary landscape.

Supporting Regional Agriculture and Fishing

As Japan faces a decline in food self-sufficiency and rural depopulation, Nori-Bento Yamanobori is committed to not just enhancing the local economy but rekindling pride in local produce among agricultural workers through dissemination of food and regional stories.

About Nori-Bento Yamanobori

Established in 2012, Nori-Bento has gained popularity, especially after being featured in Japan Airlines' international in-flight meals. With a dedication to traditional handmade recipes, they currently operate nine stores primarily in the Tokyo area, serving over 100,000 customers monthly.

For more details regarding Nori-Bento Yamanobori, visit their official website here or explore their Instagram profile.