Experience the Flavors of Ehime

This fall, Uwajimaya is proud to bring you a celebration that’s close to our roots: the Ehime Food Fair, highlighting one of Japan’s most beautiful and food-rich regions.

Ehime Prefecture is located on the island of Shikoku in western Japan. It’s known as the “Citrus Kingdom” thanks to its fertile land, coastal climate, and long-standing agricultural traditions. But for us, Ehime means more than great food — it’s where our story began.

A Homecoming for Our Anniversary

As we celebrate our anniversary this October, we’re honoring our connection to Uwajima, a city in Ehime where our founder, Fujimatsu Moriguchi, trained before coming to the United States.

When he opened his first store in Tacoma in 1928, he named it “Uwajimaya” — combining “Uwajima” with “ya,” the Japanese word for store. It was his way of paying tribute to the place that shaped him.

This year’s fair is both a showcase of regional food and a way to share that legacy with you.

What to Expect

From bright citrus juices to flavorful broths and classic sweets, the Ehime Food Fair brings in carefully selected products that reflect the quality and care of the region’s makers.

🍊 Citrus Favorites

Ehime is known across Japan as the “Citrus Kingdom,” and for good reason. Enjoy a range of products made with locally grown fruits like iyokan, mikan, and yuzu. From 100% mandarin juice and candied citrus peels to citrus-flavored mochi, these items are bright, refreshing, and full of regional character.

🍲 Seasonings & Pantry Essentials

Discover the building blocks of authentic Japanese cooking, straight from Ehime producers. Highlights include mineral-rich salt from the Seto Inland Sea, all-natural dashi packs, savory miso, and other flavor-boosting essentials for your kitchen.

🍰 Sweets to Share

Satisfy your sweet tooth with a variety of handcrafted treats. Choose from soft mochis, yummy cream cakes, chewy gummies and even creamy oat milk puddings. Many are individually wrapped, making them perfect for gifting or enjoying on the go.

🐟 Seafood Specialties

With its long coastline and fishing heritage, Ehime is home to exceptional seafood. Look out for savory snacks like teriyaki hamachi, Ehime’s famous tai (sea bream) products, and even playful crab egg snacks. Whether you’re after a quick bite or something to elevate your next meal, these coastal flavors deliver.

Special Event: Live Tuna Cutting Shows

We’re excited to welcome back the students from Uwajima Fisheries High School — also known as the “Fish Girls” — for live tuna cutting demonstrations at our Washington stores.

These students impressed customers last year with their precision and professionalism, and we’re thrilled to have them return for another round of this unforgettable experience.

You’ll see a whole tuna expertly broken down, learn about Japanese seafood techniques, and get a closer look at the craftsmanship behind sabaki (cutting/preparing fish).

Tuna Cutting Show Schedule:

• 🐟 Seattle – October 25 at 12:00 PM

• 🐟 Renton – October 25 at 3:00 PM

• 🐟 Bellevue – October 26 at 1:00 PM

Live tuna shows will take place in Washington stores only. Early arrival is recommended.

Mark Your Calendars!

The Ehime Food Fair runs from October 22 through November 4, 2025, at all Uwajimaya stores. Products are available only while supplies last.

This is your chance to experience unique regional foods from one of Japan’s most special places — and from the region that inspired the Uwajimaya name.

On both weekends of the fair, we’ll also be hosting live demos featuring Ehime products in-store. It’s a great opportunity to ask questions, taste new things, and learn more about the traditions behind these ingredients.

Come celebrate with us and take home something delicious.