About
About This Blog
So… what exactly is Zen in Onigiri?
It’s my cozy corner to share simple plant-based food and cozy living from Japan and the Netherlands ― about food, culture, and the joy of ordinary life.
Ah, that explains the name! The peaceful warmth and happy moments found in simple food.
From both Japanese and Dutch perspectives, I share simple recipes, articles, and reflections inspired by everyday people, daily life, and the small moments that connect both cultures.
So whether you’re into plant-based food, slow living, or just curious about Japan and the Netherlands…
…I hope these small stories bring a smile to your day!
About the Author
I’m Emika (えみか), a 25-year-old Japanese flexitarian.
Born and raised in Nagano, a mountainous region in Japan. Growing up surrounded by nature and my mother’s home cooking nurtured my love for food.
I lived in the Netherlands for a year with a Dutch family.
Being surrounded by a wide range of vegetarian and vegan options and meeting passionate people broadened my perspective on food and inspired me to shift toward a more conscious plant-based lifestyle.
Back in Japan, I started a plant-based cooking club at an international university in Tokyo.
We organized workshops, talks, and a pop-up stall selling homemade vegan pastries.
Curious about fermented food, I worked part-time at a miso brewery with its own store and restaurant.
From making miso in huge wooden barrels to guiding brewery tours for overseas visitors, the experience deepened my passion for traditional Japanese food culture.
I currently work in Tokyo.
Besides, I have a Dutch partner, who keeps me connected to the Netherlands.
I speak English, Dutch and Japanese.
Media
- “ICU Plant-BASE” (college plant-based club)
Zen in Onigiri は、日本とオランダの食文化・ささやかなひとときを綴りながら、プラントベース食や和食文化の魅力・素朴な暮らしの豊かさを伝えるブログです。
読んでくれたあなたの中に温かい気持ちが芽生えたら、とても嬉しいです。
プラントベース食・和食・エシカル消費やサステナビリティに関心があり、あなたの活動や想いを記事として海外に紹介させていただける方、ぜひ気軽にご連絡ください。👉 こちらから。