ABOUT CHOYA 蝶矢について

One hundred ways to enjoy ume fruit.

Ume was brought to Japan about 2000 years ago. Revered among Japanese for its health benefits, the usage of ume (whether it’s food provisions for warriors, natural remedies, or luxury items) has been evolving with the passage of time.

CHOYA UME EXPERIENCE, a ume specialty shop where people can experience the ume culture of Japan in a modern style to engage "a culture that fosters connections with loved ones," we continue to develop it while preserving traditional culture. From the historic cities of Kyoto and Kamakura, it is shared with the world.

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CEO
Ume Meister
Kentaro Suga

Message from CEO

Creating new value for umes to suit modern lifestyles, umes have long been deeply intertwined with the daily lives of the Japanese people.

They have been passed down through generations as a unique part of Japanese culture.
However, ume-producing regions are now facing a shortage of successors. This is because, with the advent of artificially flavored ume products, demand for real umes has decreased, leading to a drop in prices.
Umes are carefully cultivated with great attention to the condition of the trees, soil preparation, and pruning each branch to allow sunlight to reach deep inside. Despite severe climate changes, these umes are nurtured with a refined sensitivity. Under the rainy season skies, they are harvested one by one with great care, ensuring perfect ripeness.
Since 1959, we have been working diligently alongside producers to improve the quality of umes.
That is why we are determined to address the challenges facing ume-producing regions today.

We, “CHOYA UME EXPERIENCE”, seek to create new value for umes by offering unique varieties from across Japan, tailored to modern lifestyles.
Our goal is to increase future demand for umes, ensuring that producers can confidently pass the baton to the next generation, thereby preserving Japan's ume culture for years to come.

What is Ume Concierge?

Choya Ume Concierge, with a Deep Love for Ume
We share the unique ways to enjoyume from various regions of Japan with you, both in-store and online.
For those making ume drinks for the first time, we provide detailed guidance so you don't have to worry about making mistakes.
We also offer new ways to enjoy ume for those who have crafted ume drinks multiple times, ensuring fresh findings each day.
Our Ume Concierges love communicating with you, so please feel free to ask any questions, no matter how small, or seek advice on selecting ingredients. We’re here to help you.

What is Ume Concierge?