EKIBEN JAPAN Season 1

E1: A Feast Nurtured by a Volcano

Sakurajima, an active volcano in southern Japan. Surprisingly, there is a technique called “Haiboshi” that maximizes the flavor of seasonal fish using its volcanic ash. Let's explore the phantom technique that was once lost.

E2: Comfort Food from the Northern Seas

At Bokoi Station in Hokkaido Prefecture, a family trio makes just 40 ekiben per day. The surf clam called hokkigai, a regional comfort food, is locally sourced, along with the kombu and even the salt.

E3: Ocean Delicacy Meets Mountain Delights

On the scenic Izu Peninsula, there's a bento made with local horse mackerel, rice, wasabi and salted cherry leaves. Discover an ekiben of nature's bounty and heartfelt artistry.

E4: Octopus Cuisine Inspired by Tradition

A bento from Akashi, Hyogo Prefecture features a local octopus specialty. The container of this unique bento is also interesting as they're shaped the same as the pots used in traditional octopus fishing.

E5: Mythical Flavors of Fermentation

Shimane Prefecture's miso-stewed beef bento features beef simmered in naturally fermented miso and soy sauce with cooking sake, highlighting the Izumo region's koji culture. It pairs well with the quality rice!

E6: A Bento Shaped by Layers of Tradition

In Nagaoka, there's an ekiben shaped by layers of tradition, featuring chicken meatballs with local chili, 100-year-old abura-age, thrice-pickled eggplants in miso and more, each with their own story.