26. Big City: 24-Hour Cheap Bento Shop

A 24-hour bento shop located in Okubo, Shinjuku Ward. All bentos, including fried chicken, grilled meat, and mapo tofu, are priced at 290 yen each, making them extremely affordable. Over the three days spanning the House of Representatives election and Halloween, customers with various circumstances come to the shop. College students drawn by the low prices, struggling comedians and hosts. Chinese immigrants nostalgic for their homeland, drawn to the Asian-style side dishes. Men working night shifts always visit at 4 a.m. What are they seeking here? A glimpse into the present of the metropolis.