By Paolo fromTOKYO

Nestled just steps away from Tsukuba Express Asakusa Station in Tokyo, Onigiri Haruchan is a charming all-female-run rice ball shop beloved by locals and visitors alike. In this heartwarming video by Paolo fromTOKYO, viewers are taken behind the scenes into the intimate world of onigiri making, guided by the passionate owner who learned the craft from her mother. The shop may be small, but its heart—and flavors—are anything but.

Onigiri Haruchan is known for its generously sized rice balls, each bursting with quality, high-grade ingredients ranging from familiar offerings like salmon to more unique and seasonal fillings. The women behind the counter work in perfect coordination to craft each onigiri by hand, a process that emphasizes the love and care infused in every bite. The shop has established itself as a hidden treasure in the historic Asakusa district, quietly building a reputation for excellence and hospitality.

Asakusa is one of Tokyo's most historic districts, home to landmarks like Senso-ji Temple and Nakamise-dori, and now Onigiri Haruchan adds a delicious culinary touchpoint to the area. Paolo explores not just the food but the stories of the women who run the shop, giving insight into the enduring importance of onigiri in Japanese comfort food culture. These rice balls are more than just snacks—they are a staple of home cooking and lunchboxes across Japan.

Adding a layer of global curiosity, the video also teases the shop’s upcoming pop-up in New York, showing just how far their reach and reputation have grown. Paolo’s engaging narration and visuals make it easy to feel connected to both the people and the place. This episode is a delightful dive into Tokyo’s local flavors and entrepreneurial spirit, all wrapped up in a piece of seaweed.