On April 1, 2025, viewers tuned in to the popular morning show 'Momochi Store,' broadcast on TNC TV Nishi-Nippon, for an exciting lineup that showcased the charm of Fukuoka Prefecture. The episode featured a delightful mix of segments, including a spotlight on a new cafe in Hirokawa Town, Yame District, and a heartwarming feature on a local 74-year-old duo.
The segment titled 'Sneak Attack! Neighbor's Grandma Gohan' introduced audiences to the inspiring story of 'Hero & Eri,' a duo of grandmothers who have been performing as senior idols for over 20 years. Their journey began as elementary school classmates, and they have shared a bond for more than six decades. The pair continues to engage with the community by performing at elderly facilities and public centers, offering both entertainment and wisdom to younger generations.
During this segment, viewers were treated to not only the duo's touching stories of love and loss but also to the delicious home-cooked meals they prepared. This week, they shared a special dish that encapsulated their years of friendship and partnership, providing viewers with both culinary delight and life lessons.
Meanwhile, the show also featured the 'Paraburari' segment, which is part of a new project launched by the paratrooper squad, Yuu Saito and Peta Yano. This segment, dubbed 'Meshitori,' challenges the duo to explore local culinary spots while playing a game of shiritori, a Japanese word chain game. The first episode of this new mission took place in Kitakyushu City's Tobata Ward, where viewers could win a TVQ original QUO card by completing the shiritori challenge.
As part of the 'Abe-chan Camera Goes!' segment, the show highlighted the opening of 'Ichijo no Mori Cocochi,' a folk house cafe nestled in the forests of Hirokawa Town. This new establishment, which opens its doors on April 15, 2025, is a branch of a popular dining hall from Kurume, known for its exquisite 'Chikin Nanban' and 'Seiro Mushi' dishes. The cafe promises a unique dining experience that blends the beauty of nature with culinary excellence, making it a perfect spot for the upcoming season.
Located at 1400-5 Hirokawa Town, Yame District, the cafe will operate lunch hours from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM and cafe hours from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM. Menu highlights include the Ebi Fry & Chikin Nanban Lunch, the Teppan Hamburger Lunch, and a limited menu item featuring Kurobuta and Wild Vegetable Steamed Shabushabu, all priced at 2400 yen (tax included).
As the show aired, the hosts, including announcers Yuka Isokazu and Haruna Takagi, expressed their excitement about the fresh content and engaging stories. The audience was encouraged to tune in regularly to discover more about Fukuoka's hidden gems and seasonal highlights.
In addition to the culinary segments, the show has also undergone some changes in its hosting lineup. Akira Okazaki has been appointed as the new MC for FBS's morning show 'Bari Haya!' which airs from Monday to Friday at 5:20 AM. Okazaki, who has garnered popularity for his refreshing personality, previously served as the MC for 'Momochi Store' until March 2025. He will continue to make appearances on 'Momochi Store's' segment 'Udon MAP.'
FBS highlighted Okazaki's likeability, stating, 'He has outstanding likeability and is loved by a wide range of generations. He can deliver the most refreshing morning in Fukuoka.' Okazaki himself expressed his enthusiasm for his new role, stating, 'I want to create a program that makes you feel refreshed and want to spend the day in a good mood.'
With the combination of heartfelt stories, culinary delights, and engaging personalities, 'Momochi Store' continues to be a staple of morning television in Fukuoka. Viewers can look forward to more segments that not only entertain but also celebrate the rich culture and community spirit of the region.
As the show evolves, it remains committed to bringing the best of Fukuoka to its audience, showcasing the people, places, and flavors that make this area so special. Whether it's through the touching stories of local performers or the introduction of new dining experiences, 'Momochi Store' is poised to remain a beloved part of the morning routine for many.
