Hokkaido-based confectioner Hokushin Foods is releasing a new Hokkaido-limited product called the Yubari Melon Jelly Rich Taste Mini on May 1, 2026. Developed on the foundation of over 40 years of jelly-making expertise, this mini-sized product is crafted specifically for the souvenir market. The moment the cup is opened, the aroma of Yubari melon spreads, and the vivid orange-colored jelly is designed so that the flavor peaks in a single bite.
The Company Behind the Original Yubari Melon Jelly
In collaboration with the Yubari Agricultural Cooperative Association, Hokushin Foods was among the first to develop a Yubari melon jelly back in 1984. High-quality Yubari melons are subject to strict grading standards to protect the brand, which inevitably results in produce that falls outside specifications. Wanting to avoid waste, local farmers and the agricultural cooperative asked Hokushin Foods to put these off-spec melons to use — and the Yubari Melon Jelly was born. The company spent years trialing recipes to recreate the rich aroma and juicy texture of Yubari melon in jelly form. The result, first launched in 1984, now draws praise from customers who describe it as tasting "just like the real thing." The flavor expertise accumulated over this 40-plus-year journey forms the foundation of the new mini product.
40 Years of Craft Condensed into a Mini-Exclusive Design
The Yubari Melon Jelly Rich Taste Mini builds on the flavor techniques developed for the standard size, but has been refined as a "mini-exclusive design" in which the flavor peak of Yubari melon is experienced in a single bite.
A Design Where Flavor Peaks in One Bite
As soon as the cup is opened, the aroma rises. Eating the entire cup in one mouthful maximizes the flavor peak. Alongside the signature rich aroma of Yubari melon, a deliberate touch of "green" freshness has been retained to create a more authentic and layered scent.
Standard-size jellies are formulated to sustain flavor across multiple bites, whereas this product — intended to be finished in a single mouthful — concentrates the flavor peak at one point.
A Flavor Born from 40-Plus Years of Trial and Error
The biggest challenge in recreating Yubari melon was capturing the "aroma." Push the fragrance too far and an overpowering gourd-like green note emerges; dial it back and the Yubari melon character fades. Repeated testing with different combinations of flavorings and liqueurs eventually found the right balance.
Beyond simply resembling a melon, adjustments were also made to sweetness and texture with the question in mind: "Does this actually taste good as a jelly?" Decades of accumulated refinement have resulted in a flavor that draws out the full appeal of Yubari melon in a single bite.
Approximately 9% More Fruit Juice for a More Direct Flavor
Compared to the company's existing products, fruit juice content has been increased by approximately 9%. This adjustment adds depth to the flavor, delivering an aroma and taste unmistakably identifiable as Yubari melon right from the very first bite.
A Mini Size Made for the Souvenir Market
The mini format serves souvenir-market needs by combining:
- Individually wrapped packaging that is easy to share
- A price point accessible enough to pick up without hesitation
The product is a natural fit for souvenir purchases at airports and tourist spots, satisfying both personal and gift-giving needs in a single buy. Because the smaller size still delivers a fully satisfying experience, it also makes a good treat for oneself.
Why This Product Now?
Visitor numbers and inbound spending in Hokkaido are on a recovery trajectory following the rebound of tourism. According to Hokkaido tourism data, visitor numbers from April to December 2024 recovered to approximately 39.1 million — around 86% of pre-COVID levels — while foreign visitor arrivals to Hokkaido also recovered to around 89%. Inbound consumer spending reached a record high.
The Yubari Melon Jelly Rich Taste Mini uses the iconic Yubari melon as its centerpiece to meet growing demand for "premium souvenirs that are easy to hand out." It is being rolled out primarily through airport souvenir shops and gift shops across Hokkaido.
Product Details
Product Name: Yubari Melon Jelly Rich Taste Mini
Release Date: May 1, 2026
Where to Buy: Souvenir shops and airport gift stores across Hokkaido; select appearances at Hokkaido product fairs and antenna shops outside Hokkaido.
Price: ¥920 (tax excluded)
Contents: 21g × 15 pieces per box
