The Japanese convenience store chain, 7-Eleven, has announced the launch of an unprecedentedly large “onigiri” (rice ball) on the northern island of Hokkaido. Starting December 9, 2025, four new types of “Ookina Onigiri” (Large Onigiri) will be rolled out sequentially, available exclusively in the Hokkaido area.
“Onigiri” is one of the most popular fast foods in Japan. Because they’re easy to eat, they are loved by all generations as a breakfast, lunch, or a snack for when you’re a little hungry. In Japanese convenience stores, onigiri with new fillings and concepts are constantly appearing, and their diversity often surprises fans from overseas.
As the name “Ookina” (Large) suggests, the main feature of these new products is their size. The amount of rice is said to be the largest ever, so even on a busy day, just one of these should be enough to leave you feeling satisfied.
What’s even more noteworthy is its regional focus. There is a thorough commitment to using ingredients from Hokkaido and local seasonings familiar to the people of Hokkaido. These products feature special packaging with the word “Hokkaido” and a map, making it clear at a glance that they are Hokkaido-exclusive items. This is one of the interesting characteristics of Japanese convenience store culture and is sure to be a great story for travelers to take home.
Now, let’s take a look at each of the four flavors, packed with the delicious charm of Hokkaido, a treasure trove of food.
おおきなおむすび 道産秋しゃけ (Large Onigiri with Hokkaido Autumn Salmon)
Price: 278 yen (300.24 yen including tax)
Release Date: Sequentially from Tuesday, December 9th
As an onigiri filling, salmon (shake) is a timeless classic, beloved through the ages. This onigiri lavishly uses “Aki-shake” (autumn salmon) caught locally in Hokkaido. The rich umami of the fragrantly grilled salmon will fill your mouth. It’s a classic flavor that will remind you once again of the high quality of Japanese convenience store onigiri.
おおきなおむすび ザンギマヨネーズ (Large Onigiri with Zangi & Mayonnaise)
Price: 260 yen (280.80 yen including tax)
Release Date: Sequentially from Tuesday, December 9th
Here’s a little cultural explanation. “Zangi” is a soul food widely loved in Hokkaido. It’s a type of fried chicken with a robust marinade, making it slightly different from the standard Japanese “Karaage” (fried chicken). This onigiri contains a large, chunky piece of zangi, which, combined with creamy mayonnaise, creates an addictive taste and an overwhelmingly hearty volume. It’s great that a local delicacy you’d definitely want to try when visiting Hokkaido can be so easily enjoyed in an onigiri.
おおきなおむすび 和風ツナマヨネーズ (Large Onigiri with Japanese-style Tuna & Mayonnaise)
Price: 260 yen (280.80 yen including tax)
Release Date: Sequentially from Tuesday, December 9th
Tuna mayonnaise is now such a staple filling in the world of Japanese onigiri that it rivals salmon in popularity. However, this product is a little different. True to its “Wafu” (Japanese-style) name, it features a clever twist: the rice itself is flavored with traditional Japanese “dashi stock” and has tuna mixed into it. This ensures you can taste the umami in every bite. Inside, there’s a generous amount of rich tuna mayonnaise, making it a product that offers a new discovery within a classic flavor.
おおきなおむすび チャーシュー山わさびマヨネーズ (Large Onigiri with Chashu Pork & Horseradish Mayonnaise)
Price: 260 yen (280.80 yen including tax)
Release Date: Sequentially from Tuesday, December 9th
This is an appetizing flavor that combines “chashu” (braised pork), a familiar ramen topping, with “yama wasabi” (horseradish), known for its sharp spice that goes straight to your nose. Yama wasabi is also one of Hokkaido’s specialty products, and it has a refreshing and powerful flavor that differs from the common green wasabi. The umami of the tender, juicy chashu and the kick of the spicy horseradish mayonnaise create an exquisite combination. This can truly be called a taste unique to Hokkaido.
Why “Large Onigiri” Now?
According to the development manager, the driving force behind this new product was a strong desire “to deliver onigiri to customers that are both convenient and satisfyingly filling.” They have created unique added value not just by increasing the size, but also by focusing on ingredients from Hokkaido and flavors rooted in the region.
Japanese convenience stores are not just about convenience. They are like food theme parks, unearthing the charm of each region’s food culture and presenting it to us in new ways.
These products will be sold exclusively in Hokkaido. For those planning to travel to Hokkaido this winter, it’s the perfect opportunity to experience these “tastes of the north.” Be sure to stop by a local Japanese 7-Eleven.
Prices shown are subject to change. Please note that products are available while supplies last.
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