Make your own umeshu liqueur using Wakayama ume (often translated as Japanese plum or apricot) in this hands-on workshop, held in collaboration with Wakayama Prefecture, Japan’s leading ume producing region.

While ume are often preserved and enjoyed as umeboshi (pickled ume), they are also widely used to make umeshu—a long-standing tradition in many households in Wakayama and across Japan. Guided by a specialist from a Wakayama-based umeshu producer, participants can create their own umeshu by steeping high-quality ume from the region in rock sugar and distilled spirits. Guests also have the option to incorporate ingredients from Ishikawa Prefecture.

The workshop includes a tasting session featuring a selection of umeshu and umeboshi.

All materials are provided, including a glass container, ume, rock sugar, and the distilled base alcohol. Umeshu made in the workshop should be taken home and stored in a cool dark place for at least three months until it is ready to be enjoyed.

A separate talk and tasting event exploring the cultural significance and cultivation of ume in Wakayama is held on Saturday 12 October from 13:00. Learn more about this event and book a place.

Please read our Terms and Conditions for Event Tickets before purchasing your ticket.

This event is held as part of the Spotlight on Local Japan Programme which accepts applications from potential collaborators based in Japan to co-create cultural events presenting Japan’s regional diversity at Japan House London.

Please note that guests must be at least 18 years of age to participate in this workshop.

Japan House London operates a Challenge 25 policy; guests who look under 25 will be asked to show proof of age.

Japan House London reserves the right to refuse to serve alcohol to guests. Please drink responsibly. Visit drinkaware.co.uk for more information.

Please note that filming and photography may take place at this event. Photos and footage of the event may then be used to promote Japan House London, helping more people to discover what we offer. If you have any concerns, please contact us online or contact a member of the team on site.

Each workshop lasts for around 1 hour.

About the speaker

Nakata Yūjirō

Nakata Yūjirō is an Executive Officer at Nakata Foods, a company founded in 1897 that produces and sells a wide variety of umeboshi pickles and umeshu liqueur. The company has always upheld its founding spirit of working alongside local producers and contributing to the development of the ume-growing region and its community. With over 125 years of history, Nakata Foods remains committed to preserving and passing down the ‘the flavours of Japan’ for future generations

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