#Japan #Tokyo #Melon Dessert #Ibaraki Melon #Ibaraking

Experience the Sweetness of Ibaraki Melons at the Pop-Up Cafe

Ibaraki Prefecture is launching a unique initiative to promote its original melon variety, the 'Ibaraking', with a limited-time pop-up cafe called 'Mero Mero Mero Ibaraki Melon Cafe'. This exciting event will take place from May 29 to June 1, 2025, at NANATEA and Tsutsumi located in Tokyo's Omotesando area.

During the event, guests can create their own customized half-melon bowls using the sweet and juicy Ibaraking as a base, and choose from a diverse selection of toppings including ice cream, fresh fruits, mont-blanc, pudding, prosciutto, and even edible flowers. The cafe is designed to engage young people and boost awareness of Ibaraki melons, which historically have not received the same recognition as Hokkaido melons, despite Ibaraki's position as the top melon-producing region in Japan.

The Promotion Rationale

A recent survey conducted by Ibaraki Prefecture revealed that approximately 40% of respondents associate melons primarily with Hokkaido, leaving Ibaraki with barely 15% recognition despite its impressive production volume. The survey, which included over 1,000 participants aged 10 to over 60, highlighted a significant gap in awareness among younger generations, particularly those aged 10 to 20. To address this, the Ibaraki Melon Cafe aims to introduce the sweet delights of Ibaraki melons to younger audiences, showcasing unique and photogenic dessert experiences that encourage sharing on social media.

Customizing Your Experience

The Ibaraking is a specifically cultivated melon that has undergone over 10 years of meticulous selection processes, resulting in a fruit known for its sophisticated sweetness, refreshing aroma, and smooth texture, all worthy of a royal title. Guests to the 'Mero Mero Mero Ibaraki Melon Cafe' can enjoy the experience of cutting their half melon and selecting up to four toppings of their choice for just 1,800 yen (including tax). Additional toppings can be added for 100 yen each.

The variety of toppings available promotes creativity and personal flair, ensuring that everyone can craft their perfect melon dessert bowl. Whether you prefer the decadence of whipped cream or the freshness of mint sprigs from Shimota Farms, you can mix and match to your heart's content. Once you’ve built your unique bowl, a photo booth will await you for memorable snapshots with your creation.

The Menu Highlights

Here are some of the delightful toppings to choose from:

• - Kasama City Mont-Blanc
• - Cut Ibaraki Melon
• - Roasted Sweet Potatoes
• - Dried Sweet Potatoes
• - Mint from Shimota Farms
• - Shiitake Edible Flowers from Shibata Farm
• - Pudding
• - Cherries
• - Whipped Cream
• - Prosciutto
• - Mozzarella Cheese
• - Ice Cream (Vanilla/Chocolate)
• - Marble Chocolate
• - Chocolate Sticks

Looking Ahead: The Ibaraki Melon Week

The Ibaraki Melon Cafe is just the first event in the Ibaraki Melon Week, followed by activities such as a melon picking experience and a sales event in Shibuya. From June 5 to 8, participants can enjoy a hands-on melon picking experience at the 'Shibuya Melon Village' event, showcasing the region's finest melons.

So, whether you’re a local or a visitor, mark your calendars and prepare for an unforgettable melon experience that celebrates the sweet, succulent flavors of Ibaraki’s melons. Discover why the Ibaraking should be at the top of everyone's list when they think of melons!

For updates and further announcements, check the official Ibaraki food and agriculture portal: Ibaraki Shokusai.

Event Details

• - Cafe Name: Mero Mero Mero Ibaraki Melon Cafe
• - Dates: May 29 (Thu) to June 1 (Sun), 2025
• - Hours: 11:00 AM - 6:30 PM (Last order at 5:00 PM)
• - Location: NANATEA and Tsutsumi, 3-15-5, Kita Aoyama, Minato, Tokyo
• - Price: 1,800 yen (includes 4 toppings)

Come and indulge in this one-of-a-kind melon paradise, where you can create desserts as unique as yourself! Expect a delightful blend of flavor, creativity, and a fun atmosphere all dedicated to the beloved Ibaraki melon.