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Discover School Meals at Nakanishi Manufacturing

Nakanishi Manufacturing Co. (TSE Standard: 5941), located in Ikuno, Osaka, is excited to announce the 2nd School Lunch Time Traveler Event. Scheduled for January 27 and 28, 2026, this free event invites participants to sample and compare popular school lunch menus from the past and present.

Purpose and Background

Since its establishment in 1946, Nakanishi Manufacturing has been integral in supporting the school meal environment, starting its journey with the sale of aluminum utensils for school lunches. Through this event, we aim to enhance awareness of our commitment to the school lunch sector and provide a shared experience across generations. We hope this initiative will encourage attendees to appreciate the vital role played by kitchen staff and equipment in preparing school meals.

Last year, our inaugural School Lunch Time Traveler exceeded expectations as samples ran out shortly after the opening. The enthusiastic feedback from those unable to try the meals spurred us to expand this year's event to two full days to accommodate more visitors.

Highlights of This Year’s Event

This year’s samples will be served on actual elementary school utensils, immersing guests in an authentic school lunch atmosphere. Additionally, we will feature mini chocolates created using a 3D food printer, allowing attendees to both observe and taste the innovative creations. Our aim is to provide a memorable experience that bridges past school lunches with a vision for the future.

To avoid overcrowding and to enhance your dining experience, we will implement a timed ticketing system for this year's event.

Event Details

• - Dates: January 27 (Tuesday) and 28 (Wednesday), 2026
• - Time: 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM each day
• - Location: Nakanishi Manufacturing Tokyo Headquarters, 8th Floor Co.LAB∞ (Collabo8), 1-26-2 Shinkawa, Chuo Ward
• - Access: 6 minutes’ walk from Kayabacho Station Exit 3, 7 minutes from Hatchobori Station Exit B4
• - Participation Fee: Free (Ticket required for sampling)
• - Participants: Open to anyone interested in school lunches, from children to adults.

Sampling Area Details

Entry to the sampling area requires a timed ticket issued on the day of the event. We will offer a limited number of 90 sets of the “Past, Present, Future” tasting menu each day. Guests can enjoy nostalgic dishes like whale fried meat, modern favorites such as alphabet macaroni in ABC soup, and the ever-popular fried bread with soybean flour. Dessert will feature the 3D-printed chocolates.

Attendees will dine using student-specific utensils and cutlery, providing a nostalgic touch reminiscent of their school days.

Ticket Distribution and Entry Rules

• - Distribution: Tickets will be available at the venue on the first floor.
• - Start Time: Distribution begins at 10:45 AM each day.
• - Amount: First-come, first-served for 90 tickets each day (maximum of 2 tickets per person).
• - Time Slots: Each ticket allows for one food sample with a complete turnover every 30 minutes: 11:00-12:59, 13:00-14:59, 15:00-17:00.
• - Note: Re-entry to the sampling area is not permitted.

Free Area (No Ticket Needed)

Even those without tickets can enjoy the free area on the 8th floor. Features include:

• - 3D Food Printer Experience: Choose from 12 combinations to create your own candy.
• - Exhibit of Recreated School Lunches: Showcasing the evolution of school meals from the late 1950s, including award-winning menus from the National School Lunch Championship.
• - Displays and Quizzes: Learn interesting facts about school lunches through engaging panels. Participants in quizzes will receive small prizes.

Important Notices for Attendees

• - Waiting Protocol: Please avoid lining up before ticket distribution starts (10:45 AM). Cooperate with staff directions when forming lines. Respect the surrounding community.
• - Transportation: There is no parking or bike storage. We encourage using public transport.
• - Safety and Allergies: Children under elementary school age must be accompanied by a guardian. Those unsure about allergies are advised to abstain from tasting.
• - Photography: Photos and videos will be taken for promotional purposes. If you wish to avoid being included, kindly inform staff on the day of the event.
• - Weather Policy: The event will proceed in rainy weather. Updates about cancellations or changes will be provided on our website.