Regional Revitalisation through Local Gourmet Food

Higashiosaka City, known as 'rugby city' or 'craftsmanship city', is now gaining fame as the 'City of Curry Buns'.

Curry buns, oval-shaped loaves filled with curry, are a popular snack in Japan. The most orthodox version is deep-fried but there are also baked varieties. Some curry buns are quite spicy, while others are mild enough for children to enjoy.

Why is Higashiosaka known as the city of curry buns? When asked, people usually just shake their head. This is because it doesn't have a long history. Instead, in 2009, the 'Higashiosaka Curry Bun Association' was established mainly by local bakeries in the city to create a specialty and revitalise the city through local food delicacies.

There are two main reasons why they chose curry buns as a local delicacy.

1. ① The oval shape resembles a rugby ball.
2. ② Japan's leading curry maker, House Foods has a factory in the city and the city often smells of curry!

It may seem rather contrived, but the idea of curry buns reminding people of rugby balls serves as a PR tool for the city and when people hear the reasons behind the shape, they are always amused - which is the aim!

Today, more than 20 bakeries in the city offer creative variations of these curry buns, not sticking only to its original shape. You can find a wide variety; hotdog-shaped buns with sausages, sandwich-shaped or just the traditional rugby shaped buns. If you come to the city, you will be able to experience something spicy!