#Japan #Kyoto #Takashimaya #Local Yogurt #Yogネット

A Flavorful Journey Through Local Yogurts in Japan

Starting April 23, 2025, Takashimaya in Kyoto will host an exclusive POPUP event showcasing more than 30 unique local yogurts from various regions across Japan, followed by another event at Takashimaya Shinjuku from May 7 to 13. Organized by Yogネット, the event promises to bring together an array of exquisite yogurt flavors, including some rare offerings made from milk sourced from individual cows, along with surprising fruit-infused options that can only be found at this event.

What Are Local Yogurts?

Local yogurt is made from fresh, raw milk sourced from regional dairies, typically in small batches. Each product tells a unique story rooted in its locality. For instance, some yogurts were developed by dedicated local dairy farmers as a response to crises such as the potential wastage of milk caused by national production adjustments. Others reflect the rich history of communities revitalizing their land by incorporating dairy farming as a sustainable industry. Additionally, certain products provide valuable learning and vocational training opportunities at welfare facilities through the creation of locally made yogurt.

In producing these regional delights, many dairies prioritize the natural flavor of milk, sometimes opting for extended fermentation processes to maintain the yogurt's genuine tastes. Consequently, the availability of such products is often limited, as extensive distribution is challenging due to the restricted quantities of raw milk used.

The Appeal of Yogネット's Events

Yogネット consists of local yogurt producers from various parts of Japan, allowing for a unique market platform where consumers can access a diverse lineup of products that are typically only available online or through direct orders. The event's organizer, Yogurt enthusiast Tomoka Mukai, curates the selection personally and stands in the sales area alongside producers to offer tastings and detailed product information, enriching visitors' understanding of the yogurts they enjoy.

Arrival Schedule for Newly Added Products

Due to the limited production of local yogurts, some items will be introduced during the event based on their manufacturing schedule. For example:

• - Thursday deliveries:

- Tonami Dairy Cooperative’s Maruto Yogurt Plain
- Tonami Dairy Cooperative’s Maruto Yogurt Sweetened
- Shinshu-Iida Dairy’s Ichida Yogurt Shine Muscat

• - Friday deliveries:

- Minami-no-Oka Ranch’s Guernsey Golden Yogurt
- Minami-no-Oka Ranch’s Guernsey Golden Drinkable Yogurt

Event Details at Takashimaya

Takashimaya Kyoto Store

• - Duration: April 23 to 29, 2025
• - Hours: 10:00 AM - 8:00 PM
• - Location: Takashimaya Kyoto Store, B1F Grocery section, POPUPSTAGE09
• - Address: 52 Nishibōsai-cho, Shijō-dori, Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto

Takashimaya Shinjuku Store

• - Duration: May 7 to 13, 2025
• - Hours: 10:30 AM - 7:30 PM
• - Location: Takashimaya Shinjuku Store, B1F Event Space
• - Address: 5-24-2 Sendagaya, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo

A Glimpse of Featured Products

Namachichi Yogurt Basic

• - Manufacturer: Oishi Dairy (Hanamaki City, Iwate Prefecture)

This yogurt is a revival of flavors from the 1950s, painstakingly developed after years of dedication by the third-generation owner who wished to recreate the taste of their childhood. The charming small bottle is sure to attract attention and nostalgia with its sweet aroma.

Guernsey Golden Yogurt

• - Manufacturer: Minami-no-Oka Ranch (Nasu County, Tochigi Prefecture)

Made from 100% Guernsey breed milk, which is quite rare in Japan, this plain yogurt is renowned for its rich nutrients. The fermentation is meticulously monitored for quality, ensuring the unique flavor of the milk is preserved without over-fermentation.

Grass-Fed Yogurt

• - Manufacturer: Fumoto Jersey Ranch (Fujinomiya City, Shizuoka Prefecture)

Utilizing abandoned agricultural land near Mount Fuji, this yogurt is exclusively made from free-range Jersey cow milk. Its flavor delights vary by season, and the non-homogenized process allows natural cream layers to form.

A Commitment to Reducing Food Waste

Most local yogurts are produced in limited quantities due to their unique characteristics, and to combat food waste, the goal is to sell out during the week-long event. As stock levels decrease, products may become unavailable. For real-time stock updates, Yogネット's social media channels provide the latest information, helping customers plan their visits effectively.

Advocating the Value of Dairy through Local Yogurts

The rising production costs in recent years have placed many dairy farmers in precarious positions, with some leaving the industry entirely. As populations in rural areas dwindle, the consumer and workforce bases shrink, leading to financial struggles among small dairy manufacturers and cooperatives. With further commitments to ensure the future of local yogurts, Yogネット is dedicated to fostering connections between producers online and enhancing collaborative efforts for events.

About Yogネット

Founded in June 2023, Yogネット is a non-profit organization aimed at promoting the awareness of local yogurts and reviving the National Yogurt Summit. Members include small to midsize dairy producers, researchers, yogurt fans, and various stakeholders dedicated to enhancing the yogurt community in Japan. As of April 2025, the organization comprises 29 full members, 5 associate members, and 23 supporting members.

Meet Tomoka Mukai, the Yogurt Enthusiast

Tomoka Mukai's passion for yogurt was sparked in 2011 after trying Greek yogurt. Today, she consumes over a kilogram daily while sharing detailed reviews on social media platforms like Instagram and Tumblr. With over 3,200 product reviews as of April 2025, Mukai elevates the conversation around yogurt, emphasizing its flavor, nutritional benefits, and the craftsmanship behind each product. As the representative director of Yogネット, she aims to ensure the stories of local products resonate within the community.