Popularity of Japan's food replicas spawns new experiences

From rural train cars to London streets, fake dishes find a home outside restaurants

Food Sample Top Omelet 2024-12

Replica of a Japanese style rice omelet is given a finishing touch with paint that looks like ketchup. (Photo by Jun Takai)  

SHOKO SAIKI, Nikkei staff writer

TOKYO -- Events featuring "food samples," or replicas of food items, are attracting attention in Japan and abroad, enabling visitors to experience the unique Japanese culture.

Developed in Japan in the early 20th century, food samples are made from plastic, wax, resin and other similar inedible materials and commonly used as mockups in restaurant display windows.

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