おにぎり (onigiri): Rice ball

 

1. Today's Japanese words

 Absolutely! Here's some Japanese vocabulary about onigiri with romaji:

**General terms:**

* おにぎり (onigiri): Rice ball 

* 具 (gu): Filling (pronounced goo)

* 海苔 (nori): Dried seaweed wrapper

* 塩 (shio): Salt

* 型 (kata): Mold (for shaping onigiri)

**Types of onigiri (by filling):**

* 梅干し (umeboshi): Pickled plum

* ツナマヨ (tsuna mayo): Tuna mayonnaise

* 鮭 (sake): Salmon (pronounced sha-keh)

* たらこ (tarako): Cod roe

* 焼き鮭 (yakizake): Grilled salmon

**Actions related to onigiri:**

* 握る (nigiru): To shape (onigiri) (pronounced ni-gi-ru)

* 詰める (tsumeru): To fill (pronounced tsoo-meh-ru)

* 巻く (まく) (maku): To wrap (pronounced ma-ku)

**Phrases:**

* おにぎり一つください (onigiri hitotsu kudasai): Please give me one onigiri. (pronounced oh-ni-gi-ri hee-to-tsu koo-da-sai)

* おにぎり屋 (onigiri-ya): Onigiri shop (pronounced oh-ni-gi-ri-ya)

2. Today's topic

In Japan, onigiri is a familiar and beloved food. It's a portable, convenient snack or light meal that reflects the cultural value of avoiding food waste [3]. They come in many varieties, with fillings like tuna mayo, grilled salmon, or pickled plum, and can even be made with flavored rice [3].

Onigiri's popularity is growing abroad as well. Social media exposure, the increasing interest in affordable lunches, and the rise of Japanese tourism have all contributed to this [2]. People are finding onigiri to be more than a cheap, basic snack – it's a delicious and convenient food option. 

Here's more on onigiri's popularity abroad:

**Growing Trend:**

* **Specialty Shops:** Onigiri's popularity has led to the opening of specialty shops internationally, offering creative and gourmet versions alongside classics [1]. This shows a dedicated market forming outside of Japan.

* **Adapting to Local Tastes:** Onigiri fillings are being adapted to local preferences. For example, Korean BBQ beef or fillings inspired by regional cuisines might be offered [2]. This customization helps onigiri appeal to a wider audience.

**Challenges Abroad:**

* **Perishability:** Onigiri is traditionally made with fresh ingredients and meant to be eaten soon after preparation. This can be a challenge in markets with longer distribution chains [1]. 

* **Unfamiliarity:** In some places, onigiri might be a completely new food. Building brand recognition and educating people about the concept is necessary for wider adoption.

**Overall, onigiri's future abroad looks promising. Its convenience, deliciousness, and adaptability are winning over new fans, while innovation is addressing challenges like shelf life.**

3- Today’s news

Japan and Thailand top list of travel destinations for Chinese tourists

https://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2024/06/22/asia-pacific/society/china-tourists-top-travel-spots/

A simple recipe for onigiri, or Japanese rice balls, with salted plums

THE ASSOCIATED PRESS

https://www.asahi.com/sp/ajw/articles/15316468