KURAND Co., Ltd. (Headquarters: Adachi-ku, Tokyo; CEO: Kyoro Ogihara) will begin selling 'Hajimemashite no Shimabanana' on July 14, 2026 (Tuesday) at 17:00 via its online liquor store 'KURAND'. (https://kurand.jp/products/hajimemasite-shimabanana)
About 'Hajimemashite no Shimabanana'
'Hajimemashite no Shimabanana' is a banana liqueur crafted using rare 'island bananas' that rarely circulate outside Okinawa Prefecture and the Amami region. In collaboration with the Island Banana Association—the only specialized domestic institution—KURAND has established a direct sourcing channel from farmers, enabling limited production. With its rich flavor, it can be enjoyed in various ways, such as on the rocks, mixed with milk, or poured over ice cream.
The Appeal of 'Hajimemashite no Shimabanana'
Limited Edition Using the 'Mythical Fruit' with Zero Full-Time Farmers Outside Okinawa
Due to their delicate nature, island bananas are rarely found outside Okinawa. The banana trees grow 3 to 4 meters tall and are easily toppled by typhoons, while also being vulnerable to diseases and pests. As a result, there are no full-time farmers in Okinawa who rely solely on island bananas for their livelihood. This product is made possible through a partnership with the Island Banana Association, which aims to promote island bananas, and by establishing a direct sourcing route from farmers, bypassing conventional distribution channels, thus enabling limited production.
Refreshing Acidity and Rich Umami Cultivated by Okinawa’s Subtropical Climate and Mineral-Rich Soil
Unlike common bananas (Cavendish variety), island bananas feature a unique combination of crisp acidity reminiscent of apples or muscat grapes and a dense, rich umami. This distinctive flavor is developed through Okinawa’s unique natural environment, including soil rich in minerals derived from coral reefs and intense subtropical UV radiation. Island bananas concentrate a robust acidity and thick, luscious richness similar to wild ancestral varieties that existed before modern cultivation.
A Chunky, Chewable Pulp Texture Developed Through Repeated Brewery Experiments
To preserve the island banana’s signature dense pulp texture, the brewery tested various cutting sizes to retain optimal flavor and mouthfeel, ultimately blending diced fruit into the liqueur. Each bottle is carefully filled under strict temperature control to prevent delicate flavors from evaporating due to heat, resulting in a delightfully chunky, chewable pulp experience.
Product Overview
'Hajimemashite no Shimabanana'
◯ Category: Liqueur ◯ Alcohol Content: 5% ◯ Volume: 490ml
◯ Ingredients: Island bananas (domestically grown), banana puree, vodka, sweeteners (glucose-fructose syrup, sugar, fructose)
/ Thickener (modified starch), antioxidant (vitamin C), coloring (safflower yellow), flavoring
<Plans>
[Super Early Bird] Hajimemashite no Shimabanana: ¥2,960 (tax included)
[Early Bird] Hajimemashite no Shimabanana: ¥3,140 (tax included)
[Early Bird] Hajimemashite no Shimabanana 2-Pack: ¥5,930 (tax included)
Hajimemashite no Shimabanana: ¥3,490 (tax included)
Hajimemashite no Shimabanana 2-Pack: ¥6,280 (tax included)
Hajimemashite no Shimabanana 3-Pack: ¥8,370 (tax included)
Hajimemashite no Shimabanana 6-Pack: ¥15,690 (tax included)
[Premium Fruit Liqueur Tasting Set] Hajimemashite no Shimabanana + Exclusive luxury fruit liqueur not normally sold: ¥6,810 (tax included)
[Rare Fruit Beverage Tasting Set] Hajimemashite no Shimabanana + Mythical premium grape wine not normally sold: ¥10,970 (tax included)
<Details>
◯ Product Name: Hajimemashite no Shimabanana
◯ Sales Period: July 14, 2026 (Tuesday) – August 11, 2026 (Tuesday) 24:59
◯ Shipping: Scheduled to begin sequentially from mid-September
◯ Sales Method: Crowdfunding via 'Kurafan!'
◯ Project Details: https://kurand.jp/products/hajimemasite-shimabanana
Online Liquor Store 'KURAND'
KURAND is an online liquor store that opens the world of craft alcohol. All over 500 meticulously crafted original products—including sake, plum wine, fruit liqueurs, shochu, craft beer, and wine—are available exclusively through KURAND. It’s a place where new discoveries across all genres of craft alcohol await.
Official Website: https://kurand.jp
FACT BOX
- Source: PR TIMES
- Category: New Product