MasterChef: Japan week

MasterChef episodes set off for their annual international jaunt next week, with episodes in Tokyo and rural Japan.

There’s also a Japanese Masterclass to wrap the week.

Sunday night’s mystery box challenge sees the contestants explore the hustle and bustle of downtown Tokyo, for fresh produce and local ingredients, to create an amazing dish. Then on Monday, the contestants must make an eight-course menu for the judges and some of Tokyo’s top foodies in a Kappo (degustation-style) restaurant.

In a game-changing episode on Tuesday night, the judges welcome the contestants to the Obuchi Tea Plantation, with the majestic Mount Fuji in the distance. By the end of the day’s challenge, the contestant with the most impressive dish will be awarded an immunity pin.

Tokyo comes alive in the neon and bright lights of Shinjuku on Wednesday night when the contestants take over the local Yokocho, an alleyway packed with street stalls. In teams of three, they will take over three stalls and feed hundreds of diners.

Thursday night sees one contestant leave the competition after an elimination challenge inspired by the past and the future at the historic Akagi Shrine in the heart of Tokyo. Japan Week wraps with a very special MasterClass on the hilltop of Tateyama Castle with Michelin star and third-generation sushi chef, Kagehisa Imada.

In what promises to be a once-in-a-lifetime culinary experience, Japan Week will delight and amaze, showcasing the best of Japan’s fresh produce, innovative local chefs and cooking trends.

7:30pm Sunday – Thursday on TEN.