Experience the Uniqueness of Umeboshi and Umesu
A unique collaboration event is set to take place in Tokyo and Yokohama this spring, organized by the Ume Boys, a group of young ume farmers from Wakayama. From May 6, 2025, at selected public baths, patrons will have the chance to soak in the innovative ‘Umeboshi Bath’ while also tasting and purchasing ume-based products that emphasize sustainability.
Collaboration with Local Public Baths
This year, Ume Boys joins forces with three local public baths: Kōbō Yu and Suehiro Yu in Shinagawa, and Manten no Yu in Yokohama. The main highlight of this collaboration includes utilizing discarded ume pits and ume vinegar to offer a sensory bathing experience and a refreshing taste of traditional Japanese flavors.
Sustainable and Flavorful Baths
The ‘Umeboshi Bath’ is particularly noteworthy because it utilizes the ume pits, which are often discarded in the umeboshi production process. These pits still have traces of fruit flesh, offering aromatic properties and contributing to a relaxing bath experience. Bathers can expect a delightful scent of ume, combined with the benefits of the natural salts from the ume, creating an entirely new feel-good experience through food and fragrance. This initiative not only reduces food waste but also serves as a reminder of the importance of sustainability in food production and consumption.
Revitalizing with Umesu
Moreover, visitors can enjoy tasting salty, tangy ume vinegar drinks, which are known for their high citric acid content and excellent mineral replenishment after sweating. Made simply from ume and salt, ume vinegar is an underappreciated byproduct of umeboshi production, and this event aims to raise awareness about its culinary potential. With rising interest in healthy and traditional ingredients, ume vinegar can truly shine as a versatile kitchen staple.
Popular Food Offerings
At Manten no Yu, a special food menu will be unveiled featuring umeboshi-infused dishes. Last year, the ume-flavored drinks and food items garnered immense popularity, selling over 500 drinks and 1,500 food items. This year, the experience will include delicious offerings such as Udon with Steamed Chicken and Ume Sauce, and various ume vinegar-based drinks.
A Celebration of Tradition and Modernity
The Ume Boys initiative emphasizes not only the joy of traditional Japanese flavors but also the need to uphold and transform cultural practices to meet contemporary needs. Their passion for ume reflects a commitment to pass down the legacy of this cherished fruit to future generations. By hosting the ‘Umeboshi Bath’ event, they are keen to engage the community in discussions about food waste and sustainability and encourage a fresh perspective on the culinary use of ume products.
Join the Movement
Participating in this unique collaboration event offers a chance to experience the depth of Japanese food culture while consciously addressing food waste issues. The Ume Boys aim to inspire more people through this event, expanding their reach and fostering appreciation for ume-based products.
For more details about the event:
- Date: May 6, 2025
- Address: 3-18-8 Oosaki, Shinagawa, Tokyo
- Access: 8 min walk from Osaki Station, 10 min walk from Togoshi Ginza Station
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- Dates: May 17-18, 2025
- Address: 1-42-4 Ooi, Shinagawa, Tokyo
- Access: 4 min walk from Oimachi Station
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- Dates: May 21 to mid-August 2025
- Address: 3-1-1 Kamihoshikawa, Hodogaya, Yokohama
- Access: 1 min walk from Kamihoshikawa Station
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About Ume Boys
Founded on the vision to preserve Japanese traditional foods, Ume Boys focuses on high-quality, additive-free umeboshi made solely from ume, salt, and shiso. They utilize social media to share recipes and further ignite interest among various generations. As part of the Ume community, Ume Boys is set on a mission to innovate and breathe life into traditional agriculture while engaging younger audiences in the beauty of nature's offerings.
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