Special Talk | Inside Japan’s Hyper-Realistic Food Replicas

Step into the captivating world of shokuhin sampuru, Japan’s ultra-realistic food replicas that have become a cultural icon and a cherished part of the country’s culinary heritage. This immersive event traces the origins of food replicas back to before 1868, when produce vendors displayed samples of vegetables that were in season. From the early 1900s onward, as unfamiliar Western-style dishes such as curry rice, beef stew, and tonkatsu (a breaded, deep-fried pork cutlet) gained popularity in Japan, a demand grew for realistic and detailed food models to illustrate these dishes to Japanese diners.

In 1932, Takizo Iwasaki founded the pioneering Iwasaki Co., Ltd., and created the first official food replica, a commemorative omelet, marking a pivotal moment in the development of this craft. Since then, the art and industry of food replicas have continually evolved, blending skilled craftsmanship with modern production techniques to become an integral part of Japan’s culinary presentation and marketing.

A special guest speaker at the event, Takashi Nakai of Iwasaki Co., Ltd., will be flying in from Japan to share firsthand insights into this fascinating craft. Nakai will explore the intricate process of creating food replicas, the cultural significance behind them, and their continuing evolution today.

Beyond their stunning realism, food replicas serve a practical role by removing language barriers in dining, acting as a universal language that makes menus accessible and understandable to people from all backgrounds. This accessibility enhances the dining experience for locals and tourists alike, bridging cultures through visual storytelling. Today, the use of food replicas has expanded beyond restaurants to industries such as hospitals, schools, and manufacturing, where they aid in nutrition education, medical training, and quality control.

From humble beginnings rooted in seasonal ingredients to the rise of Western-inspired dishes and cutting-edge artistry, food replicas have become a global phenomenon admired for their lifelike detail, cultural depth, and unique ability to communicate universally. Perfect for food lovers, history buffs, artists, and curious minds alike, this event offers a rich, deliciously visual journey into one of Japan’s most unique and enduring cultural expressions.

We strongly encourage participants to visit the “Looks Delicious! Exploring Japan’s Food Replica Culture” exhibition before the program to enhance their understanding during the event. See information below.

About the Speaker

Born in 1979, originally from Tokyo. After graduating from the Faculty of Human Environment at Hosei University in 2004, he worked at a sales and installation company affiliated with a major electronics manufacturer. In 2005, he joined Iwasaki Co., Ltd. After gaining experience in sales, manufacturing, and headquarters operations, he participated in launching a new business—a manufacturing and retail (B2C) brand—as the promotion lead in 2010. Later, as the business manager, he dedicated himself to establishing the B2C business as a core pillar alongside the company’s existing operations. Since 2025, he has been in his current position. Drawing on over 15 years of experience in public relations and new business development, he is engaged in legacy succession and organizational transformation. His hobbies include soccer and playing the guitar.

Looks Delicious!

Exploring Japan’s Food Replica Culture

Looks Delicious! | Exploring Japan’s Food Replica Culture is the first U.S. exhibition dedicated to shokuhin sampuru, Japan’s astonishingly realistic food replicas. Found in restaurant windows across the country, these handcrafted models are so lifelike they’re often mistaken for the real thing. Originating in the early 20th century, food replicas were first made from wax to showcase unfamiliar dishes in department store restaurants. Today, they’re crafted from durable resins and have become a beloved part of Japanese dining culture, also appearing as novelty items like keychains and phone cases. Visitors can explore seven themed areas, learn about the history and craftsmanship of food replicas, and even create their own bentō to photograph and share.

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Image Credit: ©IWASAKI Co., Ltd.

Host or Publisher JAPAN HOUSE Los Angeles