On April 14, 2026, Lawson—one of Japan’s leading convenience store (konbini) chains—released a surprising new product exclusive to the Chushikoku region (encompassing the Chugoku and Shikoku areas of Western Japan). It is aptly named: “Tabezurakute Gomenne! An Tappuri Melon Pan” (Sorry It’s Hard to Eat! Melon Pan Stuffed with Sweet Bean Paste).
This item is the latest entry in Lawson’s “Tondemo Gourmet” (Outrageous Gourmet) series. A Melon Pan—a popular Japanese sweet bread covered in a thin layer of cookie dough—is filled to the absolute limit with “Anko” (a traditional Japanese sweet paste made from simmered azuki beans). As the name suggests, its greatest appeal is its overwhelming volume, making it almost “hard to eat.”
Shocking Volume! Product Specs and Sales Area
First, let’s check the details of this high-impact product. If you are planning to visit the Chushikoku region for a trip or business, be sure to check the bakery corner at Lawson.
- Product Name: Sorry It’s Hard to Eat! An Tappuri Melon Pan (Stuffed with Sweet Bean Paste)
- Release Date: Tuesday, April 14, 2026
- Lawson Standard Price: 268 yen (approx. $1.78 USD, including tax)
- Sales Region: Exclusive to the Chushikoku region of Japan (Hiroshima, Okayama, Shimane, Tottori, Yamaguchi, Kagawa, Ehime, Tokushima, and Kochi Prefectures)
- Notes: In Shimonoseki City, Yamaguchi Prefecture, the product is only available at stores in the Hohoku and Toyoura districts.
The Surprising Dining Experience Proposed by “Tondemo Gourmet”
Lawson Japan periodically releases the “Tondemo Gourmet” series. These aren’t just large-portion items; they are a unique category aimed at providing consumers with an “outrageously exciting” experience through sheer volume or unexpected ingredient combinations.
This “An Tappuri Melon Pan” faithfully reproduces that concept. Traditionally, a Melon Pan is enjoyed for its crunchy cookie crust and fluffy bread texture. However, this version stuffs in “Tsubu-an” (chunky sweet bean paste) as if to say “take this!” It is a product full of Japanese playfulness that shatters the common sense of existing breads.
The Unexpected Harmony of Melon Pan and Tsubu-an
Melon Pan and Anko (specifically Tsubu-an). Both are “star” ingredients representing Japanese sweet bread, and combining them might require a bit of courage. However, these two actually pair exceptionally well in terms of both texture and flavor.
The cookie crust on the surface, marked with the characteristic Melon Pan grid pattern, provides a unique aroma and a satisfying crunch. Meanwhile, the “Tsubu-an” (the type of bean paste where the shape of the beans remains) tucked inside is characterized by its moist texture. This transition through three layers—crunchy, fluffy, and moist—creates a rhythm that you won’t grow tired of.
Additionally, the overlapping sweetness of the western-style cookie dough and the deep, Japanese-style sweetness of the azuki beans allows you to enjoy a luxurious “East-meets-West” flavor profile.
Special Value as a Chushikoku Region Exclusive
This “An Tappuri Melon Pan” is a regional exclusive that cannot be bought nationwide, but only in the Chushikoku area. The rollout is very specific, even limited to certain towns within Shimonoseki City in Yamaguchi Prefecture.
In Japanese konbini, “limited edition” products that can only be found in specific regions are highly popular. They provide a special experience not just for locals, but for tourists as well. This incredible sense of volume is undoubtedly “Instagrammable” (baé). For those visiting from outside the area, the impact is so strong that you’ll likely find yourself reaching for it if you happen to spot it at a Lawson.
Satisfaction Packed into the 268 Yen Price Point
The price of 268 yen (approx. $1.78 USD) including tax is a bit high for a sweet bread in a Japanese convenience store. However, considering the amount of bean paste inside and the sheer heft when you hold it in your hand, the cost-performance is extremely high.
This Melon Pan is the perfect choice for when you want to eat something seriously sweet or enjoy a high-impact dessert as a reward for yourself. Packed with Lawson’s passion, this “heavyweight bread” will surely satisfy both your heart and stomach with just one piece.
Enjoy the Playful Spirit of Japanese Konbini
“Sorry It’s Hard to Eat! An Tappuri Melon Pan” is more than just a bread; it is a high-entertainment product. Rather than worrying about eating it neatly, Lawson suggests enjoying its overwhelming quantity and deliciousness.
If you are traveling through the Chushikoku region, please look for this product at your local Lawson. It should stand out with a heavy presence that is clearly different from other breads. Once you take a bite, you will experience the moment when its “difficulty to eat” turns into the ultimate compliment.
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