#Japan #Shizuoka #Seven-Eleven #Local Food

Unveiling Exclusive Local Delicacies in Shizuoka

From June 17 to June 30, 2024, Seven-Eleven Japan is launching a remarkable initiative aimed at showcasing the rich culinary heritage of various regions across the country, starting with Shizuoka. The event, titled 'Tokai Umai Mono Festival', aims to provide a platform for local flavors and ingredients, captured in a range of 8 specially crafted products only available in Shizuoka.

Focus on Local Ingredients

The emphasis is on using the bountiful local ingredients that Shizuoka has to offer, reflecting the region's natural richness. Among the exciting new products is the 'Shizuoka Only Shichikin Soy Sauce Onigiri', which features high-quality yellowfin tuna seasoned with a robust soy sauce, all neatly wrapped in perfectly cooked rice. This dish promises a comforting taste familiar to both children and adults alike.

Also featured is the 'Aburi Chicken Oyako Don', made from succulent local chicken that is carefully grilled to enhance its natural flavors, prepared with traditional seasonings known to locals. To satisfy sweet cravings, there's the 'Motonoyama Tea Double Cream Puff' that appropriately showcases Shizuoka’s famous Motonoyama tea, enveloped in delicious choux pastry.

Beyond Just Distribution

This initiative signifies more than just a local food festival; it’s a challenge to transform the notion of 'local production for local consumption' into 'expanding local consumption'. As part of a larger vision titled 'Creating Tomorrow’s Smiles Together', this project aims to strike tangible connections between the community and the local economy, encouraging consumers from neighboring areas to embrace Shizuoka's culinary treasures.

One should note that this food launch is part of a broader plan they are rolling out until the end of June, encompassing various regional promotions throughout 11 distinct areas across the nation including regions from Hokkaido down to Okinawa. Adopting a unique approach, the festival focuses on regional cuisines rather than sticking to prefecture-based promotions, ensuring alignment with the values of 'community living'.

Fresh Ingredients from Shizuoka

Shizuoka is home to a variety of high-quality local produce, most notably fresh strawberries known as 'Kirapika'. These strawberries are characterized by their sweet-and-fruity aroma, gentle acidity, and elegant sweetness. Another important ingredient is Shizuoka tea, one of Japan's most renowned tea varieties, with local flavors ranging from Hon-yama and Kawane to Kakegawa tea, each offering unique taste experiences.

Product Range Overview

• - Shizuoka Only Shichikin Soy Sauce Onigiri

Price: ¥140 (Tax included ¥151.20)
Available from June 17 across Shizuoka.
This Onigiri combines yellowfin tuna with rich soy sauce and fluffy rice, making it a beloved choice for many.

• - Shizuoka Chicken Edamame Onigiri

Price: ¥160 (Tax included ¥172.80)
Incorporates flavorful Shizuoka edamame into rice cooked with dashi, topped with salted kelp as a zesty touch.

• - Chicken Aburi Oyako Don

Price: ¥510 (Tax included ¥550.80)
Grilled chicken elevated to maximize its flavors, served in a classic oyako don style.

• - Shizuoka Tsuna Salad Udon

Price: ¥490 (Tax included ¥529.20)
A substantial salad udon topped with tuna and fresh vegetables, perfect for summer days.

• - Japanese Style Chilled Pasta with Tuna and Grated Daikon

Price: ¥440 (Tax included ¥475.20)
A refreshing dish perfect for hot weather, featuring a soy-based dressing.

• - Nabe Nabe Salad with Shizuoka Green Onion

Price: ¥238 (Tax included ¥257.04)
A refreshing combination of sticky ingredients mixed with local green onions.

• - Kirapika Strawberry Sauce Whipped Melon Bread

Price: ¥268 (Tax included ¥289.44)
Melon bread filled with sweet Kirapika strawberry jam and smooth cream.

• - Motonoyama Tea Cream Puff

Price: ¥220 (Tax included ¥237.60)
A delightful cream puff infused with the rich flavor of Motonoyama tea.

Conclusion

As Shizuoka showcases its culinary talents, Seven-Eleven Japan is not merely selling products; it’s building connections with the local community and encouraging everyone to appreciate the unique flavors deeply rooted in this vibrant region. This festival is an invitation to explore Shizuoka through its gastronomy while fostering a profound sense of local identity and pride among its residents.