Japan has a reputation as being one of the most expensive countries in Asia, and you’re correct to a certain extent. But we’re here to tell you that enjoying good food in Japan doesn’t necessarily have to be expensive.

For the budget conscious travellers, you would already know that their ubiquitous convenience stores (called Konbini in Japanese) are legendary. You can easily score a 3-course meal for ¥2000 or less. Now, this brings us to the topic of freshness and quality of food sold in Konbinis. Generally, most of the bento boxes, sandwiches, sushi roll, and other meals are prepared and packed at a central cooking facility, then shipped to the various convenience stores. The food tastes awesome, nonetheless. Japan’s convenience store truly lives up to its reputation.

But where is the best konbini according to the headline?

Seico Mart in Sapporo, Hokkaido

Image credit: Japan Ski Guide

Image by raymond_kyosuke on Instagram.

If you’re travelling around Hokkaido, the northernmost island of Japan, you’d probably have seen Seico Mart, one of the major convenience stores in this region.

There is one particular Seico Mart in Sapporo, Hokkaido that offers freshly made sushi on-site and the quality is surprisingly good! The rice is evenly seasoned with vinegar, there isn’t any overpowering smell, the taste of the rice and fish is a balance of sweet and savoury. Yes, there is an in-house sushi chef!

Image credit: SoraNews24

Image by raymond_kyosuke on Instagram.

For about ¥400 (approximately SG$5) you can enjoy freshly made sushi set on-site that comes with inarizushi (sushi rice wrapped in fried tofu) and natto maki (fermented soybean rolls). There is only one such Konbini in Japan at the moment located in the capital city of Hokkaido, that is Sapporo. If you’re travelling on a budget in Sapporo, be sure to make a pit stop at this Seico Mart.

Address

Seico Mart (Minami Hachijo branch) / セイコーマート（南8条店）

Hokkaido, Sapporo-shi, Chuo-ku, Minami 8-jo Nishi 4-chome 422-banchi 5, Grand Park Building

北海道札幌市中央区南8条西4丁目422番地5グランドパークビル

Opening Hours

Daily 24 Hours