Benzaiten, a fruit daifuku shop dedicated to crafting daifuku centered around fresh seasonal fruit, began selling a limited-edition strawberry daifuku using the rare premium strawberry variety "Niji no Ka" on May 23, 2026.
"Niji no Ka" is a rare summer strawberry grown near the shores of Lake Biwa in Shiga Prefecture. Although strawberries naturally peak in winter, this variety is cultivated year-round using fully indoor hydroponic techniques. Light, temperature, and nutrients are strictly controlled throughout the growing process, and pesticide use is kept to a minimum.
Despite being a summer strawberry, "Niji no Ka" stands out for its intensely rich flavor and aroma, with a well-balanced sweetness and acidity. Due to its exceptional quality, it is typically found only in select places such as luxury hotels and fine dining restaurants.
For this seasonal offering, skilled artisans have paired the strawberry with white bean paste carefully simmered by hand, along with a soft, melt-in-your-mouth gyuhi (sweet glutinous rice cake). The combination wraps the juiciness of the fruit while allowing the strawberry to remain the clear centerpiece of each piece.
Product Information
Available period: May 23 – approximately mid-November, 2026
Available at: Benzaiten stores (not available at all locations)
