#Japan #Aqua Ignis #Confiture Aash #Hayama Farm #Owase

World Champion Pastry Chefs Transform Organic Citrus into Gourmet Sweets

The renowned pastry chef, Masanori Hata, who achieved victory at the 2025 Coupe du Monde de la Pâtisserie, is embarking on a remarkable journey to showcase a unique flavor of Japan. In collaboration with Hayama Farm located in Owase City, Mie Prefecture, he is crafting exquisite sweets utilizing organically grown 'Amagaki' citrus fruits. These delectable creations are set to debut at a media tasting event on March 18, 2026.

The Inspiration Behind the Sweets

Hayama Farm, led by representative Atsushi Hayama, is dedicated to cultivating 'Amagaki' citrus without the use of chemical pesticides or fertilizers. Instead, they employ homemade organic fertilizers, ensuring the produce retains its natural flavors and nutritional quality. This dedication to organic farming makes their 'Amagaki' citrus a rare and sought-after ingredient.

Masanori Hata, filled with pride for his roots in Mie, has expressed a desire to create sweets that represent the region. The pastry chef meticulously prepares a soft paste from the 'Amagaki' peel, capturing the fruit's essence while allowing a hint of bitterness for complexity. This process preserves the taste and extends the fruit's shelf life, creating a rich ingredient to blend into various pastries and desserts, significantly the renowned financier that exemplifies the flavor of Mie.

Sweet Delights at Confiture Aash

The Confiture Aash was established within the Aqua Ignis resort, a holistic hot spring facility in Mie Prefecture. This venue is not only a sanctuary for relaxation but also a culinary destination, showcasing the finest produce, thanks to the local farms. During the tasting event, attendees will experience firsthand, the delightful blend of textures and flavors Mie has to offer through seasonal desserts such as the 'Amagaki financier'ai and limited edition cakes and drinks.

The financier, infused with the 'Amagaki' citrus paste, is available year-round for around 430 yen, while the 'Amagaki' fruit will be available from March 23 to August 31, priced at 880 yen. Additionally, a lightly carbonated citrus drink will be introduced until the end of September, priced at 740 yen.

Exclusive Media Tasting Event

On March 18, from 1:00 to 2:00 pm (with reception starting at 12:30), Confiture Aash will host the media tasting event. Masanori Hata will provide insights into the innovative dessert making process and the significance of using locally sourced 'Amagaki' citrus. He will be joined by Atsushi Hayama, who will share his farming philosophy and commitment to organic cultivation.

This collaboration represents a perfect blend of agriculture and culinary excellence, showcasing the importance of utilizing regional ingredients while maintaining sustainability in food production. This will undoubtedly mark a highlight for Mie Prefecture as it steps into the spotlight in the world of gourmet sweets.

About the Venue

Aqua Ignis, an integrated hot spring and wellness resort, offers guests a chance to indulge in a variety of culinary delights crafted by top chefs from across Japan. With unique features like 100% spring water sourced directly from Kataoka Onsen, guests can enjoy a multitude of flavors in a serene environment characterized by both relaxation and culinary explorations. The resort also includes accommodations offering organic farming experiences and strawberry picking during the winter months.

Visitors can find Aqua Ignis at 4800-1 Komono, Komono-cho, Mie, accessible by the Yuinoyama Onsen train station, just a short walk from the picturesque hot springs of Mie. For inquiries or reservations, you can reach out to them via phone at 059-394-7733 or through their website for accommodation details.