
Nikuman is a popular snack in Japan. It is served hot so you may not see it during the hot seasons but you can see them sold at many places during autumn and winter. It is established as a snack during the cold seasons in Japan, reminding us of the approaching winter.
History of Nikuman in Japan

Nikuman was originally introduced to Japan as "chukaman" (Chinese-style steamed bun). Initially it was sold only at specialty shops in Chinatown, then started to be sold to Japanese consumers around 1927. Chukaman sold at an old established food company in Shinjuku, Tokyo is still very popular today. Among chukaman, nikuman with meat filling inside was especially a hit, and gradually spread throughout Japan. Convenience stores started selling nikuman in the 1990's and became a big hit. It's a popular snack food for students after school and business persons.
Nikuman Ingredients

Nikuman is a steamed bun with meat filling wrapped by white fluffy skin. The ingredients are finely chopped pork meat, onion and shiitake mushrooms. The soft texture of meat and juicy gravy make it appealing. It tastes good as is or is eaten with sauce and mustard depending on the shop.
Where to eat Nikuman in Japan

People often buy nikuman at convenience stores. You will find warm nikuman placed in a clear case next to the cashier. Ask the store staffer to take it out for you. You can eat it straight away. At specialty shops you can order freshly made nikuman. In Osaka there is a famous chain store specializing in nikuman. It is so popular that some visitors to Osaka buy nikuman as souvenirs. Some supermarkets sell nikuman to heat it up in a microwave.
"man" other than Nikuman

In Japan, there are food called "man" filled with various kinds of ingredients other than nikuman. A representative is "an-man" which is filled with "anko" red bean paste and has a distinctive rich sweetness. "Pizza-man" is made with meat and vegetable filling seasoned with tomato ketchup. Similarly, "curry-man" is made with meat and vegetable filling then seasoned with curry powder. In addition, each convenience store chain introduce their own flavor every year such as the ones with cheese as well as with hamburg steak.
- Category
*Prices and options mentioned are subject to change.
*Unless stated otherwise, all prices include tax.
Recommended places for you
-
ISHIDAYA Hanare
Yakiniku
Kobe, Sannomiya, Kitano
-
Kambei Sannomiyahonten
Yakiniku
Kobe, Sannomiya, Kitano
-
Kanzenkoshitsuyakinikutabehodai Gyugyu Paradise Sannomiya
Yakiniku
Kobe, Sannomiya, Kitano
-
Appealing
Rukku and Uohei
Izakaya
Sapporo / Chitose
-
Jukuseiniku-to Namamottsuarera Nikubaru Italian Nikutaria Sannomiya
Izakaya
Kobe, Sannomiya, Kitano
-
Goods
Yoshida Gennojo-Roho Kyoto Buddhist Altars
Gift Shops
Nijo Castle, Kyoto Imperial Palace
-
'Is It Really Clean If...' 10 Things That Shocked an American Woman About Japan
-
Ad
Lapoppo Farm, one of Japan's leading makers of sweet potato treats! An in-depth guide to the secrets behind its popularity, including best-selling products and facilities!
-
Hachiji juppun mae – A Japanese phrase that even Japanese people can’t agree on the meaning of
-
23 Quirky and Fun Things to Do in Akihabara
by: Himanshi Shah
-
Japan Summer Sales 2025: Your Ultimate Guide to Shopping Deals In Tokyo, Kansai & More!
-
Police to ticket cyclists riding on sidewalks, which amounts to almost all cyclists in Japan
-
Ueno Ameyoko: Here's Where To Find Tokyo's 6 Best Street Food Shops!
-
Aizu-Wakamatsu Sake Crawl: Enjoy the Heart of Fukushima's Sake Culture
-
20 Best Things to Do in Fukushima Prefecture (Sightseeing Attractions, Local Foods & Activities)
-
Shibuya Crossing: Getting the Best View from the Deck at Magnet by Shibuya109!
-
8 Unfamiliar (But Totally Normal) Customs in Japan!
-
Exploring Tokyo Station: 11 Must-Visit Spots Around the Heart of Tokyo
- #best sushi japan
- #what to do in odaiba
- #what to bring to japan
- #new years in tokyo
- #best ramen japan
- #what to buy in ameyoko
- #japanese nail trends
- #things to do japan
- #onsen tattoo friendly tokyo
- #daiso
- #best coffee japan
- #best japanese soft drinks
- #best yakiniku japan
- #japanese fashion culture
- #japanese convenience store snacks