Kameya Yoshinaga, a Kyoto confectionery shop with approximately 220 years of history, has launched a new flavor of its signature wagashi, "Ubatama." The latest addition, "Apricot Lemon," brings a fruity, sweet-and-sour summer twist to this long-beloved treat.

The packaging features a textile design by SOU·SOU, giving the product a fresh, summery feel. Inside, a smooth white bean paste combined with generous lemon purée forms a lemon filling, which is then wrapped in a gentle apricot paste that carries a delicate sweetness with a hint of tartness. Dried apricot pieces adorn the top of each piece, and the whole confection is finished with a glossy coat of agar jelly.

The two-layer structure — apricot bean paste on the outside and lemon filling on the inside — creates a flavor that is both fruity and refreshing. The subtle sweetness of apricot and the bright, juicy quality of lemon complement each other, leaving a clean, light finish. The combination is designed to be approachable even for those who typically find traditional wagashi too sweet, while retaining the characteristic moist, melt-in-the-mouth texture that Ubatama is known for.

The apricot lemon Ubatama pairs well with both Japanese tea and black tea, making it a versatile treat for various occasions.
Product Information

Ubatama (Apricot Lemon)
- Price: 972 yen (tax included) for a box of 6
- Shelf life: 14 days (room temperature)
- Sale period: Until around mid-August
- Available at: Main store, official online store, JR Kyoto Isetan, Kyoto Takashimaya Kyoto Meika Corner, and select department stores nationwide