You won't believe what's inside this pricey Japanese snack that takes 20 years to perfect!

When it comes to culinary delights, the Japanese have a knack for creating dishes that are as much about the experience as they are about the taste.

One such creation that has recently caught our attention is a Tokyo rice ball that's not only priced at a premium but also boasts a preparation time that spans two decades.

But the question on everyone's lips is, is it truly worth it?



Today, we're taking you on a culinary adventure to the bustling streets of Shinjuku, Tokyo, where a humble onigiri shop is redefining luxury in the world of Japanese comfort food.

Onigiri, the quintessential Japanese snack made of rice and often wrapped in seaweed, has long been a staple for anyone seeking a quick and satisfying bite. But what happens when this simple snack undergoes a gourmet transformation?


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A single onigiri at Manma, an onigiri specialty shop in Shinjuku, Tokyo, is being sold for 2,000 yen (US$14.30), which is significantly higher than the typical price for rice balls at Japanese convenience stores. Image source: Google Maps.



Onigiri, more commonly known as rice balls, have seen a rise in prices from the usual 120 yen or $0.85 to around160 yen or $1.02. However, Manma, an unassuming onigiri specialty shop, is making waves with its premium offering that commands a price tag of 2,000 yen (approximately US$14.30).

The Special 20-year Miso Onigiri is a testament to the art of fermentation and the pursuit of exceptional flavor.



Miso, a staple in Japanese cuisine, is a fermented soybean paste that is typically aged for several months.

However, Manma's onigiri features a miso that has been aged for an astonishing 20 years. This lengthy process results in a miso with a profound aroma and a complex flavor profile that promises to tantalize the taste buds in ways that ordinary miso simply cannot.


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The premium price is due to the use of a special 20-year-old miso. Image source: Google Maps.



Unlike the typical onigiri, which is often wrapped in nori (seaweed), the Special 20-year Miso Onigiri is bare, showcasing a deep brown hue that comes solely from the miso.

The absence of any filling might come as a surprise to onigiri aficionados, but it speaks volumes about Manma's confidence in the quality of their ingredients.



Upon taking a bite, one might expect the familiar sweetness and saltiness of miso, but Manma's onigiri offers something more—an unexpected sourness followed by a crescendo of umami that unfolds with each chew.

It's a sophisticated and unique flavor that may not cater to all palates but certainly provides an experience worth savoring for those with an appreciation for the finer things in life.


Source: @fotographeats / Instagram.​


For those who find themselves in Tokyo, a visit to Manma is a must.

Located in Tokyo-to, Shinjuku-ku, Shinjuku Sanchome 14-23 and open from 8:30 AM to 9:00 PM, it's a destination that promises to offer a memorable gastronomic experience.

Key Takeaways
  • A single onigiri at Manma, an onigiri specialty shop in Shinjuku, Tokyo, is being sold for 2,000 yen (US$14.30), which is significantly higher than the typical price for rice balls at Japanese convenience stores.
  • The premium price is due to the use of a special 20-year-old miso, which is highly aromatic and used to cover the rice ball without the need for seaweed wrapping.
  • Initially, the onigiri's taste presents an intense miso flavor with a hint of sourness, followed by a growing umami sensation, offering a sophisticated and unique eating experience.
  • Although the Special 20-year Miso Onigiri is a luxury item and may not suit everyone's taste or budget, it is considered worth the splurge for its quality and distinction.

Would you be willing to pay a premium for a rice ball two decades in the making? Have you ever encountered a dish that seemed overpriced but turned out to be worth every penny? Share your experiences with us in the comments below!
 

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