Onigiri: The Evolving Face of Japan’s Beloved Rice Ball

An ancient onigiri unearthed at the Sugitani Chanobatake Ruins. (© Nakamura Yūsuke)

A ripening rice paddy. Japanese culture is deeply rooted in rice farming. (© Nakamura Yūsuke)

The basic makeup of a rice ball. (© Nakamura Yūsuke)

The four standard shapes of rice balls. (© Nakamura Yūsuke)

Bale-shaped tawara onigiri. (© Pixta)

An array of vibrantly decorated onigiri shows the endless possibilities of the food. (© Nakamura Yūsuke)