Zenbird Editorial TeamA sustainable food fair titled “Guruguru, Tsunageru” (Circulating and Connecting) is being held across station-based commercial facilities in Tokyo and Yokohama, offering visitors a chance to experience innovative dishes made from upcycled ingredients.
The first phase of the event, “Oishii Megumi” (Delicious Blessings), runs till 29 March 2026. A total of 11 shops are participating, mainly located in station complexes such as Ecute Akihabara, Ecute Edition locations in Shibuya, Yokohama, Shimbashi, Yurakucho and Ochanomizu, mAAch ecute Kanda Manseibashi, and shops at Harajuku Station. The fair features 33 circular menu items developed using 15 types of unused or surplus ingredients that typically face challenges in distribution or disposal.
Japan’s faces a number of food waste issues, including the approximately 5,000 surplus bread items generated each month at station bakeries. The food fair repurposes ingredients like brewer’s spent grain, coffee grounds, imperfect fruit, and retired egg-laying hens (typically excluded from mainstream meat markets due to their firm texture). Through tailored cooking techniques and creative combinations, participating shops have transformed them into high-quality gourmet enjoyment.
