Explore the heart of everyday Japanese life through its iconic convenience stores! For any visitor to Japan, the importance of convenience stores (or "konbini") in daily life is immediately apparent. Unlike our understanding of convenience stores in the United States, Japan's three major chains—7-Eleven, FamilyMart, and Lawson—are the beating heart of the country.

Locals visit konbini several times a day to buy household items, umbrellas (during summer storms), manga, and, of course, food in all its forms. From instant snacks, onigiri, bento lunches, steaming oden, the fluffiest slices of cheesecake, and instant noodles.

This book celebrates the offerings, sometimes unusual, but always delicious, through recipes and stories, as well as delving into the history of this peculiar Japanese cultural icon.

English

256 pages

20.78 x 26.47 cm