Awaji Island Unveils ‘Hilltop Milk Laboratory’: A Sweet Revolution for Dairy Lovers and Local Farmers
Awaji Island is set to enchant visitors with a delightful new culinary destination: the “Awaji Island Hilltop Milk Laboratory.” Opening its doors on January 24, 2026, this innovative project at Uzunooka Onaruto Bridge Memorial Hall is dedicated to making Awaji Island milk “more delicious, more fun” through playful yet rigorous research.
This unique laboratory concept, the first of its kind on the island, aims to thoroughly experiment with both the “taste” and “ingredients” of Awaji Island milk to develop groundbreaking new products. It inherits the legacy of the beloved “Awaji Island Hilltop Milk Bread,” which sadly closed last year, promising to continue sharing the exquisite taste of local milk with a broader audience.
A Project Rooted in Community Support
Beyond crafting delectable treats, the “Awaji Island Hilltop Milk Laboratory” is deeply committed to supporting the island’s dairy farmers. These dedicated individuals, who work tirelessly to maintain the quality of Awaji Island milk, face severe challenges such as soaring feed and fuel prices, declining profits, and a critical shortage of successors. The project seeks to address these pressing social issues by promoting Awaji Island milk through innovative new products.
Data reveals the urgency of this support: as of February 1, Reiwa 7 (2025), Awaji Island is home to 69 dairy farms with 3,247 dairy cows. However, the broader Hyogo Prefecture has seen a dramatic decline in dairy cow populations, decreasing by over 15,000 head in the last 15 years, with raw milk production plummeting to less than one-third of its previous levels. By highlighting the appeal of Awaji Island milk, the laboratory hopes to contribute, even in a small way, to the revitalization of the local dairy industry.
The Inaugural Research Breakthrough: White Financiers and More
The first fruits of the laboratory’s delicious research are three distinct financiers, available from the grand opening. The star of this debut collection is the “Awaji Island White Milk Financier.” Unlike traditional financiers that boast a golden-brown crust, this innovative creation is baked just enough to preserve its pristine white color, delivering an intense milk flavor without any charring. Its moist texture and the gentle, lingering aftertaste of Awaji Island milk offer a truly novel experience.
Joining this pioneering white financier are two other enticing flavors:
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Awaji Island Onion Butter Financier (324 yen, tax included): A harmonious blend of the delicate sweetness of Awaji Island onions – a local specialty – and rich butter. Upon opening the package, a fragrant and rich aroma fills the air. The synergistic effect of umami creates a profound, multi-layered sweetness that surprises and delights the palate.
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Awaji Island Milk Coffee Financier (324 yen, tax included): This financier masterfully combines the deep notes of coffee with the creamy mellowness of Awaji Island milk, achieved through a unique preparation method. A moist texture leads to a rich aroma and subtle sweetness, followed by a pleasant coffee aftertaste. It’s a small, sweet experiment that promises quiet happiness.
These financiers are priced at 324 yen each (tax included), inviting everyone to savor the unique tastes born from this dedicated research.
Visit the Laboratory of Sweet Discoveries
The “Awaji Island Hilltop Milk Laboratory” is located on the first floor of Uzunooka Onaruto Bridge Memorial Hall, a prominent tourist facility in Minamiawaji City, Hyogo Prefecture. This area is famous for its stunning views of the world-class Naruto whirlpools and attractions like the giant onion monument, “Ottama-negi,” which draws visitors from across Japan for memorable photo opportunities. The facility, operated by Uzunokuni Minamiawaji Co., Ltd., also offers local delicacies such as “Uni-shabu” (sea urchin hot pot) and award-winning “Awaji Island Burgers.” The company welcomed approximately 730,000 visitors across its facilities in fiscal year 2024.
A representative from the project shared their enthusiasm: “The Awaji Island Hilltop Milk Laboratory will continue to develop new products as a ‘milk-love-never-stops research lab,’ and all staff will transmit the charm of Awaji Island milk nationwide! As a result, we hope to support dairy farmers and Awaji Island milk. Please stop by when you come to Awaji Island!”
This project not only offers a new culinary experience but also represents a heartwarming effort to sustain local traditions and livelihoods. The laboratory’s ongoing commitment to exploring and sharing the deliciousness of Awaji Island milk ensures a future filled with sweet discoveries, inviting both locals and international travelers to experience the unique charm of this Japanese island.
For more information, visit the official website:
https://uzunokuni.com
