Japanese plum liqueur umeshu gains new identity

13 mars 2026

Rapporté par l'IA

Long viewed as just a sweet sip, umeshu is now getting the spotlight thanks to a growing breed of producers. These producers are showcasing the exciting possibilities of the beverage.

Umeshu, a Japanese liqueur made from plums, has traditionally been regarded as a simple sweet drink. However, a growing number of producers are now highlighting its broader potential, elevating its status beyond a mere sweet sip.

Wakayama, a key plum-producing region mentioned in related keywords, appears central to these developments. Producers are exploring new ways to enjoy umeshu, including variations in alcohol content and applications in bars, as noted in the coverage.

This shift was featured in The Japan Times on March 13, 2026, underscoring umeshu's evolving role in drinking culture.

Articles connexes

Shizuoka focuses on matcha to reclaim top tea producer status

The Shizuoka Prefectural Government has intensified efforts to regain its position as Japan's leading green tea producer after losing the top spot to Kagoshima Prefecture. Capitalizing on the global boom in matcha-powdered green tea, the region is shifting production from sencha, Japan's most commonly consumed green tea, to tencha, the raw leaves used for matcha, while also expanding organic tea cultivation. Long bolstered by its strong brand, Shizuoka now confronts several challenges in rebuilding its standing in the tea market.

Kyoto successor preserves traditional amanatto with new ingredients

14 décembre 2025 Rapporté par l'IA

Takeshi Kondo, the 35-year-old fourth-generation owner of Torokuya in Kyoto's Mibu district, is innovating traditional Japanese confectionery amanatto using cacao beans and nuts. His Shuka brand, launched in 2022, targets younger customers and global appeal. This effort preserves cultural heritage through adaptation.

Asie

Edo-period candy shop sells traditional snacks in Tokyo temple

Asie

Fish paste production rebounds in Japan

Asie

Noto's suzu ware reemerges from earthquake rubble

Six Japanese items added to UNESCO intangible heritage list

A UNESCO intergovernmental committee decided on Thursday to add six Japanese items, including the Murakami Festival in Niigata Prefecture, to the agency's Intangible Cultural Heritage list. This marks the first registration of a Japanese intangible asset since traditional sake brewing was added last year.

Saga's underwater restaurant to get new vessel this summer

27 février 2026 Rapporté par l'IA

An underwater restaurant in the Yobuko district of Karatsu, Saga Prefecture, known for Yobuko squid, will receive a new vessel as early as this summer to continue operations. Opened in 1983 as Japan's only underwater eatery, it features the signature dish 'ika shumai,' or steamed squid dumplings. President Junko Ota notes that the facility has endured thanks to customer support and aims to evolve as a local symbol.

Asie