#Japan #Yamagata #Yusa Mochi #Dewanomochi #Shonai Culture

Yusa's Maru Mochi: Preserving Tradition with a Modern Twist

In a significant step to preserve the culinary heritage of Yamagata's Shonai region, the Seikatsu Club Cooperative will introduce "Yusa's Maru Mochi" starting in winter 2025. This unique product is crafted using traditional methods to ensure a delightful texture and quality.

The Essence of Yusa's Maru Mochi

Yusa's Maru Mochi is exclusively made from "Dewanomochi," a type of glutinous rice that epitomizes the region's agricultural excellence. Known for its delicate sweetness and smooth texture, this rice is rarely cultivated outside of the Shonai area due to its challenging growing conditions. The mochi is made via an age-old technique that involves steaming and pounding the rice in a mortar and pestle, resulting in a soft, chewy consistency that melts in your mouth.

A single package contains approximately 15 pieces of mochi, each around 34 grams and 5 centimeters in diameter, providing a generous serving ideal for various culinary applications.

A Cultural Legacy

The Shonai region has a storied tradition of enjoying round mochi, which became popular during the Edo period. As trade routes expanded, particularly with the advent of the Kitamaebune (Northern Forward Ships), cultural exchanges occurred, leading to the establishment of this unique mochi culinary practice. Since 1983, Seikatsu Club has been committed to distributing products from local producers, promoting this cherished food culture.

However, recent years have seen significant challenges; aging producers, labor shortages, and aging facilities threatened the continuation of this beloved tradition. In response to these issues, the new company "Chokai Fudo" was founded by Seikatsu Club and local producers from Yusa Town, aiming to secure the sustainable production of this delicacy.

The Future of Mochi Production

In March 2025, Seikatsu Club will also begin retailing "Yuza's Chibi-chan Maru Mochi" at their stores in the metropolitan area. This initiative marks a new chapter for mochi production in the Shonai region, combining local heritage with modern sustainability practices. The mochi can be enjoyed in various ways, whether grilled, boiled, or microwaved, making it a versatile item for the everyday table.

Product Information

• - Product Name: Yusa's Maru Mochi 500g
• - Launch Date: Mid-November 2025
• - Content: 500g (approximately 15 pieces)
• - Standard: Room temperature storage
• - Shelf Life: 120 days
• - Price: ¥1,013 (tax included)
• - Partners: Shonai Midori Agricultural Cooperative (Yamagata Prefecture)
• - Manufacturer: Chokai Fudo, Co., Ltd. (Yamagata Prefecture)

Note: Availability may vary by certain regions of Seikatsu Club.

Preserving Shonai's Food Culture

The development of Yusa’s Maru Mochi encapsulates a deep commitment to sustaining the Shonai region's food culture and is an embodiment of the cooperative spirit uniting local producers. The story of this mochi is one of connection, history, and a shared vision for the future.

Chokai Fudo's President, Hitoshi Okuyama, emphasizes the importance of not only passing down traditional mochi-making but ensuring that the rice cultivation continues in the local area. This new approach to mochi production reflects the communal values and the dedication of those who have worked tirelessly to keep these traditions alive.

Collective Efforts and Local SDGs

The establishment of Chokai Fudo is a pivotal step toward achieving local sustainability goals. The production facility, partially renovated from a decommissioned local school, reflects the collaborative efforts of community members and Seikatsu Club, ensuring that the love for mochi-making continues. Funding also stems from the Shonai Natural Energy Fund, aided by profits from a local solar power project, showcasing an innovative blend of traditional practices and modern sustainability.

About Seikatsu Club

Formed in 1965, the Seikatsu Club has grown to encompass over 420,000 members with total sales exceeding 100 billion yen. Promoting safe, high-quality food products low in additives and pesticides, it operates cooperatively across 21 prefectures, facilitating a sustainable purchasing ethos.

Through the commitment to collective action and local food culture, Seikatsu Club is paving the way for a sustainable society, bridging generations and communities in the process. For more information, visit Seikatsu Club's website or follow them on Instagram.