7-Eleven, the ubiquitous konbini (convenience store) chain in Japan, is hosting a special fair in Okayama Prefecture and the Shikoku region (Kagawa, Tokushima, Ehime, and Kochi Prefectures) starting May 1, 2026. This “Onigiri & Sweets Fair” features four new products born from the “7-Eleven Hit Makers” project—a collaboration with local TV station “KSB Setonaikai Broadcasting” and radio station “FM Kagawa.” These items were developed based on unique ideas from local residents, resulting in a lineup filled with regional pride.
The “Hit Makers” Project: Turning Local Audience Ideas into Reality
These new products represent a special collaboration between local broadcasting stations and a major convenience store. KSB Setonaikai Broadcasting’s program “Newsgenic” and FM Kagawa’s “WEEKEND SHUTTLE” joined forces to solicit ideas for new products from their viewers and listeners.
The development process has been featured on-air, and on May 2nd, personalities from each program will provide in-depth coverage of the products’ appeal. This is a community-focused project fully backed by local media.
At 7-Eleven stores in Okayama and Shikoku, these items will be marked by vibrant, eye-catching displays.
Recreating a Kagawa Specialty: “Bone-in Chicken Style Onigiri”
This onigiri (rice ball, a Japanese soul food) is inspired by “Honetsuki-dori” (Bone-in Chicken), a representative gourmet dish of Kagawa Prefecture.
Bone-in Chicken Style Onigiri
- Price: 170 JPY (approx. $1.13 USD) (183.60 JPY including tax)
- Sales Region: Okayama Prefecture and Shikoku region, Japan
- Allergens: Egg, Wheat
Honetsuki-dori is a punchy chicken dish seasoned heavily with garlic and spices. This product faithfully recreates that impact, offering a spicy kick that spreads through your mouth from the first bite. It’s a unique way to enjoy the authentic taste of a famous local specialty on the go.
Capturing the Essence of Okayama Ramen: “Kasaoka Ramen Style Onigiri”
An onigiri inspired by “Kasaoka Ramen,” which enjoys enduring popularity in Kasaoka City, Okayama Prefecture, has made its debut.
Kasaoka Ramen Style Onigiri
- Price: 168 JPY (approx. $1.12 USD) (181.44 JPY including tax)
- Sales Region: Okayama Prefecture and Shikoku region, Japan
- Allergens: Egg, Wheat
Kasaoka Ramen is characterized by a soy-sauce-based chicken broth topped with slices of “Nidori” (stewed mature chicken) chashu. This onigiri recreates the concentrated flavor of the chicken broth and the presence of the chicken as a filling. A traditional local favorite has been transformed into a style you can enjoy with one hand.
“Baked Panna Cotta” Featuring 35% Rich Hiruzen Jersey Milk
In the sweets category, a rich dessert has been released using a generous amount of “Hiruzen Jersey Milk,” a high-end dairy brand Okayama is proud of.
Baked Panna Cotta (Using Hiruzen Jersey® Milk and Rare Sugar)
- Price: 298 JPY (approx. $1.99 USD) (321.84 JPY including tax)
- Sales Region: Okayama Prefecture and Shikoku region, Japan
- Allergens: Egg, Milk
Made with 35% rich milk from Jersey cows raised in the Hiruzen Highlands, this dessert also includes 3% “rare sugar,” which is popular among health-conscious consumers. Unlike standard panna cotta, the addition of a “baking” process creates a fragrant and deep richness, resulting in a luxurious and satisfying treat.
“Kokepunya 2”: The Refreshing Tartness of Kagawa Kiwis
This uniquely named sweet features kiwi fruit grown in Kagawa Prefecture.
Kokepunya 2 (Using Kagawa “Kiwi no Tamago®” Juice and Rare Sugar)
- Price: 150 JPY (approx. $1.00 USD) (162 JPY including tax)
- Sales Region: Okayama Prefecture and Shikoku region, Japan
- Allergens: Egg, Milk, Wheat
This snack uses the juice of “Kiwi no Tamago” (Kiwi’s Egg), an original kiwi variety from Kagawa, and contains 1% rare sugar. The charming name “Kokepunya” is derived from the name of an FM Kagawa radio personality. It features a pleasant, squishy texture and the refreshing acidity characteristic of kiwis, making it the perfect affordable sweet for an afternoon refresh.
Limited Time Until May 18! A Special Taste Only in Okayama and Shikoku
This “Onigiri & Sweets Fair” is a very short-lived event, running for approximately 18 days from Friday, May 1, to Monday, May 18, 2026.
The sales area is strictly limited to 7-Eleven stores within Okayama Prefecture and the four prefectures of Shikoku (Kagawa, Ehime, Tokushima, and Kochi). This is a rare opportunity to enjoy flavors unique to the region, developed through deep involvement from local TV and radio stations. As items may sell out early depending on stock, we recommend checking them out as soon as possible if you are visiting for travel or business.
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