A uniquely new product is debuting exclusively at 7-Eleven stores in Akita Prefecture, located in northern Japan. The star ingredient is “Bodakko,” salted salmon with over twice the salt concentration of regular salted salmon.While those outside Japan might think “Isn’t that too salty?”, this is an indispensable “soul food” for Akita residents. Japanese convenience stores (Konbini) value each region’s unique food culture and focus on developing limited-edition products that can only be enjoyed locally.
Sesame Salmon Onigiri with Bodakko
First up is the “Sesame Salmon Rice Ball with Bodakko”. Priced at 178.20 yen (tax included), it’s quite affordable. It launched on Thursday, January 22nd, and is sold exclusively in Akita Prefecture. An “onigiri (Rice Ball)” is a classic Japanese portable food, made by shaping rice into a triangle or other form and wrapping it in nori seaweed.
The term “bodakko” is an Akita dialect word meaning “red salmon pickled in a very salty brine.” Created as a preserved food in an era without refrigeration technology, this ingredient pairs exceptionally well with plain white rice.This product uses authentic bodakko with a salt concentration over twice that of regular salted salmon. While recent Japanese convenience store rice balls increasingly feature reduced salt for health-conscious consumers, this product deliberately recreates the traditional “intense saltiness.”
The rice itself is also meticulously prepared. Instead of plain white rice, we use “dashi rice” cooked with broth extracted from the most flavorful parts of the salmon. This rich, savory broth perfectly balances the intense saltiness of the bodakko. The burst of salmon aroma and saltiness upon the first bite offers a deeply regional Japanese taste experience.
Miso-based Champon Noodles
Next up is Akita’s unique noodle dish, “Miso Ankake Champon.” Priced at ¥645.84 (tax included), it also launches Thursday, January 22nd.
While “champon” in Japan typically refers to the milky-white soup noodle dish originating from Nagasaki Prefecture, the champon beloved in Akita is distinctly different.Its defining feature is the thick, starchy sauce (“ankake”) that coats the entire soup. The broth is typically miso-based. This culinary tradition emerged from the wisdom of Akita’s ancestors, who sought to keep the dish piping hot until the last bite to warm their bodies during the region’s harsh winters.
This newly commercialized “Miso Ankake Champon” features a rich broth made from chicken and pork bones, concentrating the umami of vegetables and seafood. Using three types of miso creates a complex, deep richness. The thickened soup retains heat and coats the noodles thoroughly with flavor.The ingredients include seafood like shrimp and squid, making it satisfyingly hearty. Even amidst snowy landscapes outside, eating this dish will warm you up to the point of breaking a sweat, evoking the essence of winter in Akita.
The Developer Speaks: “Local Pride”
This product was born from deep local pride. According to the developer, they focused on balancing the saltiness of bodakko—a staple in Akita households—with the flavor of dashi broth. It also embodies the wish for foreign tourists and visitors from other prefectures to easily experience Akita’s deep culinary culture.
One of the joys of travel is visiting local supermarkets or convenience stores to discover unfamiliar regional ingredients. Even if you don’t have time for a restaurant, being able to enjoy “authentic Bodakko” at a convenience store is a major draw. While honoring the region’s food culture, Seven-Eleven has added its signature high-quality touches.
For Those Interested: Head to Akita Stores
The two items introduced here are available exclusively at 123 Seven-Eleven stores in Akita Prefecture. If you happen to visit Akita, Japan during the promotion period, be sure to check the refrigerated shelves and rice ball section. Both locals and tourists will surely grow to love Akita even more after experiencing this intense character and warmth. Savor this local gourmet treat, packed with salt and energy, especially delicious during the harsh winter cold.
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