#Japan #Tokyo #Ibaraki #Workshop #Keisui Pear

Discover the Sweetness of 'Keisui' Pears

As summer vacation draws to a close, many parents find themselves grappling with the anxiety of unfinished school projects. To alleviate this stress, Ibaraki Prefecture is hosting a special one-day event titled "The Great Research Workshop on Ibaraki Pear 'Keisui'" on August 28th, 2025, at Six Gallery in Harajuku, Tokyo.

This unique workshop is designed for elementary school students who may not have completed their summer research or those who simply adore pears. The event, titled "Aim to Become a Pear Scholar! - A Deep Dive into the Secrets of Sweetness," offers an engaging learning experience centered around the 'Keisui' pear, a special cultivar from Ibaraki Prefecture.

Meet the Instructors

The workshop features two esteemed instructors: Kouta Onuma, a renowned talent and produce wholesaler from the agriculturally rich city of Hokota, and Minato Ogata, a high school student and the youngest certified vegetable sommelier ambassador for Ibaraki. Together, they will guide participants through various entertaining and educational activities.

Fun Activities

Participants will delve into the world of pears through hands-on experiments and tastings, including:
1. Exploring the mystery behind the pear's crisp texture by observing thinly sliced samples under a microscope.
2. Measuring sweetness with a digital refractometer to discover just how sweet the 'Keisui' pear can be.
3. Learning about the pear's history and cultivation secrets from its origins to harvest.
4. Conducting buoyancy tests to see if 'Keisui' pears float or sink in a fun water experiment.
5. Tasting luxurious 'Keisui' pears and comparing their flavors.
6. Creating original pear-based drinks and desserts that showcase the coolness of summer.

An Oasis of Coolness

In addition to the workshop activities, attendees will enjoy a refreshing atmosphere with features such as mist showers, ice columns filled with pears, a wind chime display that creates soothing sounds, and a chance to experience pear picking—all set in a space designed to provide a cool escape from the summer heat. It’s an event that promises to be an oasis for the senses, allowing participants to experience both coolness and deliciousness simultaneously.

As summer vacation comes to a close, why not wrap it up with an enjoyable and educational experience?

Event Details

• - Title: The Great Research Workshop on Ibaraki Pear 'Keisui'
• - Date: August 28th, 2025
• - Time: 11:00 AM / 1:00 PM / 3:00 PM (Reservation required)
• - Location: Six Gallery, 6-32-1 Jinguumae, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
• - Participants: Elementary students (grades 1-6), maximum of 10 per session
• - Cost: Free

For more information and registration, visit the application form.

Interesting Insights

Interestingly, a recent survey conducted by Ibaraki Prefecture revealed that over 60% of participants aged 20 to 60 were unaware of the taste differences among pear varieties. Moreover, more than half of those surveyed admitted they do not consciously consider the pear variety when making a purchase. While many recognize the names of varieties like Kousui, Toyosui, and Nijisseiki, few understand their unique characteristics.

In light of these findings, Ibaraki Prefecture aims to promote the 'Keisui' variety, a product of 17 years of careful cultivation, showcasing its exceptional sweetness, pleasant texture, and exquisite taste. As a high-quality pear with an average sugar content of 13° and a refreshing flavor profile, 'Keisui' is set to become a staple in high-end fruit markets and specialty shops across Tokyo. Come and be a part of this exciting event that promises to educate and inspire young minds while enjoying the deliciousness of Ibaraki's own 'Keisui' pears!