Nagoya Station’s Hidden Gem ‘Shachibon’ Paused Sales: ‘Decided on a Grand Departure’

Shachibon, a cream puff shaped like a Shachihoko (mythical carp) and a hidden favorite among delicacies at Nagoya Station, ended its sales on April 10th. It was known as the “senior” to the chick-shaped pudding ‘Piyorin,’ a Nagoya Station specialty.

Characterized by an ichigo (strawberry) tongue and eyes made of whipped cream and chocolate, each Shachibon is uniquely crafted by hand, ensuring no two expressions are alike. Shachibon first went on sale in 2000 at the ‘Bon Voyage’ cafe that was once located at Nagoya Station, merging the shop’s name with Shachihoko. Initially, only six pieces were sold daily, but its unique appearance quickly garnered popularity.

After the closure of Bon Voyage in 2004, its sales continued at various cafes, but on February 28th, 2011, it was put on a “rest” hiatus. Due to popular demand for its return, Shachibon made a comeback on June 8th, 2022, after approximately 11 years, becoming available at the ‘Denmark’ cafe inside Nagoya Station.

However, barely two years after its revival, Shachibon announced its “departure” on its official X (formerly Twitter) account on April 2nd this year. Declaring a significant departure “to look within,” it conveyed that sales would pause again after April 10th.

According to JR Tokai Food Service, which manufactures and sells Shachibon, the pause is for taste improvement, among other reasons, with plans to resume sales once preparations are complete. “While the specific timeframe is currently undecided, we will definitely return,” the company stated.

Shachibon left a powerful message on X, saying, “I’ll be back!”.