#Japan #Tokyo #Wakayama #FamilyMart #Ice Bar

FamilyMart's New Ice Bar: A Taste of Wakayama's Mandarins

On September 15, 2026, FamilyMart will release its highly anticipated ice bar, "Torokeru Shokkan Gyutto Mikan," which boasts 67% juice from Wakayama prefecture's mandarins. This launch marks an exciting addition to the company's wide-ranging product lineup as it celebrates its 45th anniversary. With a commitment to sustainability and local agriculture, FamilyMart's private brand, "Famimaru," aims to support fruit production while delighting customers with delicious options.

The Unique Two-Layered Delight

This ice bar features a unique two-layer design: one layer made from rich and flavorful Wakayama mandarin juice and the other providing a creamy, melting texture reminiscent of gelato. Known for their sweetness and balanced tartness, these mandarins are carefully harvested to ensure the highest quality and flavor. FamilyMart is making it accessible at approximately 16,100 stores across Japan, excluding Okinawa, showcasing its mission to deliver premium local flavors to a broader audience.

The Beauty of Wakayama's Terraced Fields

Wakayama is renowned as a leading citrus farming region, famed for its naturally formed terraced fields crafted from stones accumulated by hand. These dry-stone walls not only prevent soil erosion but also serve as natural heaters, reflecting sunlight and helping to intensify the sweetness of the mandarins. The dedication of local farmers, who nurture these trees passed down through generations, ensures that this tradition of cultivation continues. The breathtaking landscapes of this region tell a rich story of heritage and passion, intact amid the challenges posed by modern agriculture.

Obstacles Faced by Farmers

Despite the high demand for domestic mandarins due to supply shortages caused by imported oranges, local farmers are grappling with increasingly severe climate changes. They battle unpredictable weather conditions that threaten their harvests, including heavy rains that can damage the terraces. Farmers employ strategies such as using cool suits and sprinklers to protect their crops from intense heat and pests, ensuring that the trees and fruits continue to thrive. The cost of agricultural supplies has surged due to rising raw material prices, burdening the farming community in times of need.

Preserving Imperfect Fruit

Even after the stringent quality control of the market, some perfectly flavorful mandarins may not meet aesthetic standards for sale. FamilyMart has chosen to incorporate these so-called "imperfect" fruits into their ice bar, thereby showcasing their commitment to sustainability and reducing food waste. By using exceptional quality juice from these fruits, FamilyMart guarantees that taste is never compromised, delivering the delightful flavors from Wakayama straight to consumers.

Connecting Seasonal Delights With Ice Cream

Winter may evoke images of mandarin harvesting, but FamilyMart is determined to share the zest of Wakayama mandarins with customers year-round. The expectation is that introducing these seasonal flavors in a novel form such as ice bars can not only promote the mandarins but also energize agricultural communities, creating a positive cycle that safeguards the future of mandarin cultivation.

Local Fair Celebrating Wakayama's Richness

In conjunction with this launch, FamilyMart is also hosting the "Eel Flavors of Wakayama" fair at about 2,650 stores across the Kansai region, showcasing various products made with local ingredients. In collaboration with local producers and shops, customers will have the chance to sample unique offerings that reflect the essence of Wakayama. Promotional materials will feature the adorable Wakayama PR mascot, "Kii-chan," further enhancing local engagement and pride.

Ready For a Tasty Future

The newly launched ice bar is just one of the many developments initiated by FamilyMart as it celebrates its rich history while looking toward the future. As farmers continue to cultivate their passion for mandarin production and FamilyMart connects the produce with consumers across Japan, every bite contributes to preserving the history and beauty of Wakayama's mandarin orchards. The collaboration embodies the essence of "Local Produce, Local Convenience," and aims to resonate with customers who relish seasonal delicacies.

Conclusion

FamilyMart invites everyone to indulge in the amazing flavors found in their frozen creations, a true testament to the hard work and dedication of Wakayama's farmers. Enjoy the layers of flavor from the harvest whilst supporting sustainable local agriculture, and let each ice bar transport you to the vibrant fields of Wakayama where these sweet joys begin!

Visit FamilyMart's official website for more details and information about ongoing promotions.