Best Japanese Hanami Bento and Drinks: Shumai Bento, Noriben, Sake & Craft Beer Guide

“Ekiben” are very familiar to the Japanese people. Its history can be traced back about 140 years, and a uniquely Japanese culture rarely seen elsewhere. Ekiben are also unique to their own local specialties and tastes. Taiwanese writer Riichi Chang spoke with the PR manager of Kiyoken, Akane Yamamoto. Yamamoto mentions that the Yokohama unique “Shumai Bento” is considered to be the perfect example for the Ekiben.

Japan’s traditional portable bento meals have influenced dining around the globe, with the phrase “bento box” now being commonly recognized. Among Japan’s diverse types of bento, noriben stands out as a true classic. In this simple favorite, a sheet of nori seaweed is laid out on a bed of rice, and topped with various side dishes. Lately, noriben made with specially selected ingredients are making waves in Japan's food scene. Mr WAGATSUMA Yoshikazu, the president of Noriben Yamanobori, is credited with starting this trend. For this article, Taiwanese author Mr Riichi Chang interviews Mr Wagatsuma to learn more about the simple, yet profound art of noriben.

Have you been to Kobe City in Hyogo Prefecture? Kobe City is surrounded by the sea and mountains, blessed with both of their delicacies. Local bento boxes are filled with the charm of the area. The most famous bento is “Hipparidako-Meshi”. Chang Weizhong, a Taiwanese writer, and Japan's latest news source, interviewed the shop about " Hipparidako-Meshi".

Nihonshu specifically refers to Japanese sake. This versatile beverage pairs well with most any kind of cuisine. With varieties such as sparkling sake, junmaishu which can be served warm, and ginjoshu which is served chilled, a true diversity of flavors and drinking experiences can be found. We’ve asked a specialty sake store for some advice to beginners about the smart way to enjoy Japan’s traditional liquor.

Craft beer is a diverse genre, with as many types of beers as there are ways to enjoy them. With a little knowledge, you can enhance your enjoyment of these artisanal beverages even further. So, we have set out to learn the smart way to enjoy craft beer at “Coedo Brewery The Restaurant”, which is attached to Coedo Brewery, a craft beer manufacturer in Kawagoe, Saitama.