May 1, 2023
After hiking in Japan for over 7 years, I've discovered that convenience stores like 7-ELEVEN, Family Mart and LAWSON offer not only convenience but also the best food selection for hikers on-the-go. In this article, I will introduce my top food choices from 7-ELEVEN so you know what to buy before hitting the trail. Additionally, I'll also highlight some foods that you may want to avoid.
Top 5 Foods at 7-ELEVEN
1. Onigiri, aka Rice Balls
The ultimate hiking food in Japan, with a variety of fillings to cater to different taste preferences. With their rich cultural significance and nutritional value, onigiri have been a go-to meal for warriors and farmers for centuries.
Their triangular shape is said to be inspired by the shape of mountains, which have long been viewed as sacred places where gods reside in Japan. Eating onigiri on the mountain is not only a practical choice for hikers, but also a symbol of respect for nature and the divine.
2. High-Protein Chicken Sandwich
In Japan, high protein has become a huge trend since 2020 and can be found in almost every convenience store. The 23.9g protein sandwich is perfect for hikers as it provides sustained energy throughout the hike. The packaging ensures that it doesn't become soggy, but it is important to handle it carefully to prevent it from getting squashed.
3. Dried Sweet Potato Sticks
Dried sweet potato sticks are perfect to snack on, providing hikers with sustained energy and essential vitamins and minerals. These nutrients help to maintain steady blood sugar levels and prevent fatigue during prolonged physical activity like hiking, making them an ideal snack for the trail. The taste may surprise you as sweet potatoes from Japan are known for their exceptional sweetness and deliciousness.
4. Sweet Red Bean Paste Pancakes (Dorayaki)
If you are not a hater of red beans, this is my go-to snack for a quick energy boost. Unlike many Western sweets, Dorayaki are typically lower in fat and calorie-dense, providing a space-efficient snack that can give you an instant energy boost on the trail.
Fun fact: Dorayaki is Doraemon's favorite snack (the famous robotic cat from a Japanese manga series).
5. Curry Meshi (Instant Curry)
Curry Meshi is my favorite instant curry, and is my go-to lunch whenever I have access to hot water. It requires less water than instant noodles and has lower sodium levels. In addition, since it is not allowed to dispose of excess soup into nature in Japan and there are very few trash cans available in nature, instant curry like Curry Meshi is an ideal hassle-free meal for nature hikes as there is no excess soup to dispose of.
History of Instant Curry: it was invented in Japan in the 1960s for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. Despite its Indian origin, curry is a beloved food in Japan, especially among children. I recall being overjoyed whenever we had curry for school lunch, and the entire class was always thrilled. Surprisingly, the average Japanese person eats over 80 curries per year, which is equivalent to 1-2 times a week.
Foods to AVOID
Milk Products
I would advise against packing milk products, including protein shakes, when going on hikes in Japan. The country is known for its hot and humid climate, particularly during the summer months, which makes it challenging to keep dairy products fresh and safe to consume.
Large Size Instant Noodles
Not only do they require a lot of water to cook, some can be as much as an entire 500ml bottle, but they also contain upwards of 8~9 grams of salt. In Japan, it's prohibited to dispose of excess soup into nature, so hikers are left with two options: drink all of the soup or take it home. This can add extra weight to your backpack and be an inconvenience on the trail. Instead, opt for smaller-sized instant noodles or other foods such as instant curry.
With so many food choices available, it can be overwhelming to know what to bring on a hike, especially when traveling to a new country like Japan. Hopefully, this article has provided some insight into the best and worst foods to look for at 7-ELEVEN, making it easier to plan your next hiking trip.