Risonare Kohamajima, a private island resort in Okinawa, will host the "Brown Sugar Lab" from March 1 to May 31, 2026. This unique activity offers over 96 pairing combinations to explore the deep world of brown sugar through observation, hypothesis, and verification.
Background
Kohama Island, where Risonare Kohamajima is located, is known for its thriving brown sugar production. The island is one of eight islands selected to produce "Okinawa Brown Sugar®," which has been certified under the regional food brand standard "Authentic Local Product." Brown sugar is an important industry that supports Kohama Island and serves as a representative local specialty.
While brown sugar is familiar as a food ingredient, the varying flavors and textures of brown sugar from different production areas, as well as the diversity of tastes that emerge through pairing with various dishes, remain relatively unknown. This activity was designed under the concept of a "lab" that follows the research process of "observation, hypothesis, and verification," allowing participants to discover new aspects of Okinawa brown sugar while enjoying pairings.
Brown Sugar Academy: Learning About History and Production Methods
The activity begins by deepening knowledge of brown sugar as the first step in research. Participants learn about the history and production methods of brown sugar through a curriculum supervised by the "Okinawa Prefectural Agricultural Cooperative Kohama Sugar Factory." They also touch and smell actual sugarcane to deepen their understanding of brown sugar. The session concludes with a tasting of brown sugar syrup, allowing participants to experience the complex flavors of brown sugar beyond just sweetness. This helps participants understand the basis for the hypothesis that brown sugar harmonizes with any ingredient, building anticipation for the upcoming pairing experience.
Brown Sugar Pairing: Over 96 Combinations to Discover Your Perfect Match
After learning about the history and production methods of brown sugar, participants experience "Brown Sugar Pairing," combining brown sugar from eight Okinawan islands with various ingredients. Based on the hypothesis that "brown sugar pairs well with any ingredient," participants explore compatibility with a total of 12 types of ingredients. From classic to unexpected combinations, participants can discover their own unique brown sugar pairings from over 96 possible combinations. Verification results are recorded on a pairing sheet that participants can take home.
Fresh Brown Sugar from Production Season
During the Brown Sugar Pairing experience, participants can taste rare fresh brown sugar produced within one year. Most brown sugar on the market has been produced over a year ago and is characterized by rich flavor and mellow bitterness. In contrast, recently produced brown sugar has a fresh aroma reminiscent of young grass and a refreshing sweetness, allowing participants to experience the unique taste difference of fresh brown sugar. This is a special tasting experience available only to those staying on Kohama Island, comparing regular products with freshly made brown sugar.
Special Edition: Hearing from Sugar Factory Representatives
Every year on May 10, "Brown Sugar Day" is established by the Okinawa Prefecture Kumimitsuto Measures Council to promote brown sugar consumption. As a special version of this activity, the "Brown Sugar Lab ~ Special Edition ~" will be held for three days only: May 9 (Saturday), 10 (Sunday), and 11 (Monday), 2026. Representatives from the "Okinawa Prefectural Agricultural Cooperative Kohama Sugar Factory" will be invited, allowing participants to hear directly from those engaged in daily sugar production and explore the appeal of brown sugar.
Brown Sugar Lab Details
Period: March 1 to May 31, 2026
Time: 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM
Price: 4,000 yen (tax included)
Included: Brown Sugar Academy lecture fee, Brown Sugar Pairing experience fee, fresh brown sugar, drinks, pairing sheet
Capacity: 16 people
Reservation: Required at least 5 days in advance through the official website (https://hoshinoresorts.com/ja/hotels/risonarekohamajima/)
Note: Content may change depending on ingredient availability.
About Risonare Kohamajima
A beach resort located in the Yaeyama Islands, Okinawa Prefecture, at the southwesternmost tip of Japan. With the concept of "Yukuru Exotic Resort," guests can enjoy a relaxing stay immersed in the leisurely flow of time on a remote Okinawan island. Through cultural experiences unique to Kohama Island tailored to modern lifestyles and breathtaking views woven by Japan's largest coral reef "Sekisei Lagoon," guests can tune themselves through their stay and experience a journey found nowhere else.
Location: 2954 Kohama, Taketomi Town, Yaeyama District, Okinawa Prefecture 907-1221
Phone: 050-3134-8093 (Risonare Reservation Center)
Rooms: 60 rooms
Check-in/Check-out: 3:00 PM / 11:00 AM
Rates: From 20,700 yen per night (per person when 2 people share a room, tax included, meals not included)
Access: 25 minutes by ferry from Ishigaki Port Remote Island Terminal to Kohama Port, approximately 10 minutes by shuttle bus from Kohama Port
Website: https://hoshinoresorts.com/ja/hotels/risonarekohamajima/
About Risonare
"Risonare" is a resort hotel brand operated by Hoshino Resorts domestically and internationally. The concept is "PLAY HARD," enjoying to the fullest. Through spatial design that leverages local characteristics, diverse activities, and experiences unique to the region and season, Risonare provides stays that exceed imagination and create memorable journeys. Currently, eight facilities are operating domestically and internationally, including "Risonare Shimonoseki" opening in December 2025. Furthermore, "Risonare Fukui" is scheduled to open in 2027.
Official website: https://hoshinoresorts.com/ja/brands/risonare/
Official Instagram: @hoshinoresorts.risonare
