Describing Japanese konbini culture is not easy for Chef Katsuya Fukushima. He says that’s a good thing because it would spoil the surprise. It’s possible to eat, really well, from 7-Eleven for weeks ...

Japan’s convenience stores, known affectionately as konbini, are the best in the world. You can find them anywhere throughout the country, tirelessly open 24/7. In fact, it’s estimated that Japan has ...

If you’ve got a rumbling in your tummy but little time or money, what could be better than a bento (boxed lunch) from the nearest convenience store? But take a minute before you join the increasing ...

As the season of hanami (cherry-blossom viewing) comes upon us, it’s timely to reflect on the single most important aspect of hanami-- the o-bento (boxed meal). I say this because I grew up in a ...

In case you weren't aware, 7-Eleven is basically a global phenomenon, and the Japanese version of the convenience store has many items only available locally.

Convenience stores are a neat and functional retail institution in Japan, where customers can access the daily essentials, from buying breakfast to paying bills Kenji Yamamoto was unsure that his ...

Add Yahoo as a preferred source to see more of our stories on Google. Grab-and-go bento boxes are available at Yutori. (Giselle Garza Lerma/S.F. Chronicle) Four years ago, Jerome Ito started searching ...

Since their arrival in Japan in 1974, convenience shops have become vastly popular with both locals and international visitors. Sean Pavone, Alamy This article was produced by National Geographic ...

In recent years, a quiet but noticeable shift has taken place in the way people travel. Instead of limiting themselves to museums, landmarks and restaurant reservations, many travellers are ...

This article was produced by National Geographic Traveller (UK). “This might be the best konbini combo yet!” says Niki Micklem, as she slides a wobble of yellow custard pudding from its plastic ...