On February 12, 2025, Japanese television viewers were treated to a vibrant exploration of Hong Kong through the eyes of actress Hisako Manda and former Japan national soccer player Tomoaki Makino, as they featured on the popular gastronomic show, Sekai Chou Gourmet. Airing on Nippon Television, the show set the stage for Manda and Makino’s whirlwind 1-night, 2-day culinary trip, immersing audiences in the delectable offerings of the city.
Manda, noted for her engaging personality, teamed up with the affable Makino, who is famous for his ability to connect with people. Throughout their adventure, the duo not only indulged their taste buds but also engaged audiences with their charming dynamic, bringing to life Manda's nostalgic ties to Hong Kong—a place filled with romantic memories for her.
Their culinary escapade kicked off at a popular restaurant known for its delectable xiao long bao (soup dumplings). During their walk to the restaurant, Makino playfully threw out the question, "Are you dating anyone lately?" to which Manda responded with confidence, "I’m dating every day." This humorous exchange set the tone for their jovial interactions throughout the episode and made for compelling viewing.
Upon arriving at the restaurant, they were greeted by the enticing aroma of freshly steamed dumplings. After savoring the crab miso xiao long bao, Manda exclaimed, "This is delicious!" echoing Makino's sentiments about the rich flavors. Their ability to connect over food and fond memories showed how culinary experiences can forge friendships, drawing viewers closer to their shared adventure.
The trip was not only about food; it was also about exploring Hong Kong’s rich culture. Manda, who expressed her desire to wear a traditional Chinese dress, took the opportunity to don one during their visit. Makino, always willing to indulge her whims, suited up as they prepared to dine at one of the city’s high-end restaurants. The images shared on social media showcased both the elegance of Manda's red dress and Makino's sharp suit, portraying them as stars from a classic film.
Manda's dream to wear the Chinese dress was more than just about fashion; it symbolized her connection to the culture and her appreciation for the beautiful traditions of Hong Kong. Consequently, the pair's dressed-up outing to the upscale restaurant was capped off with Manda proclaiming, "The flavors here make me tear up—they're just so good!" Her enthusiasm for the meals served throughout their culinary adventure highlighted the deep emotional ties food can evoke.
Taking on the vibrant street food scene, the duo ventured next to various stalls serving Hong Kong’s culinary classics. Makino, who is referred to as "the genius of shortening distances," enthusiastically probed Manda's culinary preferences, asking her about her past experiences with food. Their culinary tour continued with other famous dishes, including the spicy crab at the popular "Typhoon Shelter Fried Crab" stall and savory Swiss sauce chicken wings, reportedly favored by movie star Jackie Chan. Each sushi piece and street food sampling served to create delightful moments of surprise and joy for the two explorers.
Throughout the show, the mix of food and genuine conversation provided warmth, prompting studio guests like Yoshiko Imori and Ami Kikuchi to join hosts Haraiti and Shiori Sato for discussions on how food cultivates connections. The joy on Manda's face echoed the series' goal: to make viewers want to explore the world and its flavors.
Reportedly, after their escapades, Manda and Makino shared shots from their travels on social media, with followers praising the beautiful visuals of Hong Kong alongside compliments about Manda's style, calling her "a beauty" and "stylish"—a nod to her enduring charm even as she reaches the age of 66.
The episode aired as part of Japan's national network schedule, appealing not just to food lovers but anyone seeking inspiration for their travel destinations.
Released with stunning visuals of the city’s skyline, street markets, and cozy eateries, viewers walked away not only with the savory taste of Hong Kong’s rich cuisine but also the warmth of human connections forged over shared meals. Whether through Makino’s light-hearted questions or Manda’s heartfelt appreciation of the delicious offerings, the pair's trip encapsulated the show's mission: to inspire people to connect with the world, one meal at a time.