FamilyMart, a major Japanese convenience store chain (known as konbini) with approximately 16,400 stores nationwide, is set to release the latest entry in its “Sanchi to, Kombini ni” (From the Farm to the Konbini) series—a project dedicated to supporting sustainable agriculture. The newest addition is the series’ first-ever strawberry-flavored ice cream bar, “Melting Texture: Concentrated Strawberry” (Torokeru Shokkan Gyutto Ichigo). It will be available at stores across Japan starting Tuesday, April 14, 2026.
This premium ice cream bar features a generous 27% juice content from “Tochiaika,” a next-generation strawberry variety developed in Tochigi Prefecture, which is famously known as Japan’s “Strawberry Kingdom.”
A Four-Year Ambition: Mastering the “King of Flavors”
FamilyMart’s “Sanchi to, Kombini ni” series, now in its fourth year, is an initiative that collaborates with local farmers to create attractive regional products. For the development team, strawberry was always a “special flavor” they dreamed of delivering in its finest possible form.
However, because strawberries are an incredibly popular and “classic” flavor in Japan, the team felt immense pressure not to release anything of sub-par quality. After extensive dialogue with local farmers and a search for the ideal ingredients, they finally discovered the “Tochiaika” variety from Tochigi. This encounter allowed the team to finally commercialize a strawberry ice cream they were truly satisfied with, four years after the project’s inception.
What is “Tochiaika,” the Rising Star of Tochigi?
Tochigi Prefecture is Japan’s leading strawberry producer, with over half a century of expertise. “Tochiaika” is the culmination of this long-standing technology. This variety is not only superior in taste but also possesses the resilience to withstand the intense heat of recent summers. It is gaining significant attention as a high-potential variety that will support the future of Japanese agriculture.
“Heart-Shaped” Strawberries Filled with Love for Farmers and the Future
The name “Tochiaika” incorporates the Japanese word for love (ai), reflecting the love for Tochigi. This variety was developed not just for its deliciousness, but also to reduce the physical burden on the farmers who grow them.
The berries are large and firm, making them resistant to bruising during harvest and packing. This has significantly improved work efficiency for farmers.
Farmers involved in the cultivation have expressed their joy, noting that the increased efficiency has renewed their motivation to continue producing delicious strawberries. Seeing the fruit they raised turned into an ice cream sold in stores nationwide is a source of great pride for the producers.
By purchasing this ice cream, consumers are doing more than just enjoying a sweet treat—they are supporting local Japanese agriculture. It is a new form of “Oshikatsu” (the act of supporting one’s favorites), where a delicious experience helps sustain the smiles of the producers.
Discover the Craftsmanship Behind “Melting Texture: Concentrated Strawberry”
True to its name, this new ice cream bar offers a luxurious experience by “concentrating” the deliciousness of strawberries.
Basic Product Information
- Product Name: Melting Texture: Concentrated Strawberry (Torokeru Shokkan Gyutto Ichigo)
- Price: 210 yen (Approx. $1.40 USD) / 226 yen including 8% tax (Approx. $1.51 USD)
- Release Date: Tuesday, April 14, 2026
- Availability: FamilyMart stores nationwide across Japan
- Key Feature: Made with 27% juice from Tochigi Prefecture’s “Tochiaika” strawberries.
The Ultimate Melt-in-Your-Mouth Double-Layered Structure
The defining feature of this ice cream is its meticulously crafted two-layer design:
- Outer Layer: A highly fragrant layer that concentrates the rich flavor of strawberry juice.
- Inner Layer: A smooth, gelato-like layer that melts effortlessly on the tongue.
With the first bite, the vibrant aroma of strawberries spreads from the outer layer, followed by the melting sensation of the inner core. The intense sweetness unique to “Tochiaika” stands out, providing a level of satisfaction that feels like eating a real, fresh strawberry.
The packaging prominently features the specific variety name, “Tochiaika Juice,” rather than just a generic “strawberry juice.” This reflects FamilyMart’s desire to encourage consumers to become fans of specific agricultural products and support sustainable farming. As you enjoy the rich flavor, imagine the lovely strawberries that reveal a heart shape when sliced in half.
Be sure to look for this special ice cream, filled with the passion of Tochigi’s farmers, at your local FamilyMart.
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