#Japan #Karuizawa #Apple Pie #Asanoya #Yahata Ya Isogoro

A Perfect Blend of Tradition and Innovation

The renowned Asanoya bakery, nestled in the heart of Karuizawa, has joined forces with Yahata Ya Isogoro, a time-honored producer of seven-spice pepper since the Edo period. This partnership results in the creation of the "Yahata Ya Isogoro x Asanoya Original Blend Spice," launched on July 1, 2026, available for a limited time.

This collaboration uniquely combines the expertise of both brands—Asanoya's dedication to promoting bread culture and Yahata Ya Isogoro's rich heritage of spice blending. The endeavor started with Asanoya's bakers visiting Yahata Ya Isogoro for extensive tasting and trial sessions, focusing on elevating the flavors of beloved pastries, particularly the apple pie.

The final spice blend features an invigorating kick from domestically produced Japanese pepper, harmonized with the floral scents of yuzu and lemon. A sprinkle on the apple pie enhances the natural sweetness and tartness of the apples, resulting in what they describe as a "grown-up apple pie experience." This versatile spice can also be paired with toast and croissants, or even used as an accent in drinks and desserts, adding a special touch to everyday bread moments.

Additionally, to celebrate the launch, Asanoya will offer limited-edition craft cola made with the original spice blend at select stores. This initiative brings forth a new way to enjoy the art of baking and spices as envisioned by two of Nagano's prestigious establishments.

Product Details of the Original Blend Spice

Three Key Features:

1. Exquisite Japanese Pepper and Citrus Flavor:
The spice blends rare Japanese pepper, providing a tingling heat that combines beautifully with refreshing citrus notes from yuzu and lemon, creating a deep, nuanced flavor profile.

2. Perfectly Pairs with Apple Pie:
Alongside cinnamon and lemon, the combination of pepper and citrus accentuates the sweet and sour notes of the apples. Just a sprinkle on Asanoya's famous apple pie transforms it into an unparalleled adult dessert experience.

3. Unlimited Culinary Possibilities:
From topping for toast and croissants to an enhancing element in café lattes, hot wine, or sodas, and even on vanilla ice cream, the spice invites endless creativity in the kitchen.

Release Schedule:

• - Available from: July 1, 2026, until sold out.
• - Price: 1,080 yen (including tax).
• - Where to Buy: Select Asanoya locations and online shop (please refer to the website for participating locations).

Exclusive Collaboration Menu

To fully showcase the allure of the "Yahata Ya Isogoro x Asanoya Original Blend Spice," Asanoya will also introduce a limited menu featuring a special apple pie enriched with the spice and a craft cola that complements the blend beautifully.

Limited Edition Offerings:

• - Apple Pie made with Original Blend Spice:

- Availability: Starting July 15, 2026, until sold out.
- Price: 594 yen (including tax).
- Location: Available at all Asanoya stores.

• - Craft Cola made with Original Blend Spice:

- Availability: Starting July 1, 2026, until sold out.
- Price: 540 yen (including tax).
- Locations: Available at Asanoya Jiyugaoka, Asanoya Saitama Shintoshin, Asanoya Karuizawa Old Town, and Asanoya Chikubushima Museum.

For additional information, visit the official Asanoya website at Asanoya.

About Yahata Ya Isogoro

Founded in 1736, Yahata Ya Isogoro has been producing and selling seven-spice pepper for over 290 years near Zenkoji Temple in Nagano City. With a mission to deliver "small happiness to dining tables across the nation," they pride themselves on offering sensory delights through their spices.

About Asanoya

Since opening in 1933 in Tokyo’s Kojimachi, Asanoya has evolved into a prestigious bakery known for its artisan breads, with shops now spread throughout Karuizawa and the Kanto area. Their continued commitment to quality has solidified their reputation as a cornerstone of local bakery culture.