Buzz-Worthy: Yuzu and Honey from Sugi Bee Garden

I have to start by saying this: I’m not paid for this, just a honey fan sharing a happy find.

Honey has always been special to me. My parents are beekeepers, so it’s more than something you drizzle on toast, it’s part of my family story. Funny thing: I got stung plenty of times running around in our garden as a kid, but never when I was helping my parents tend to the bees.

Finding Sugi Bee Garden honey at my local Japanese supermarket felt like a little gift. I love the smooth taste. And the Yuzu & Honey? That’s my favorite. Bright, citrusy, and just the right amount of tang to break the sweetness. I love it in tea or straight from the spoon (no shame).

The packaging deserves a mention too. It’s clever and practical, easy to hold, no sticky mess, and looks good enough to leave out on the counter. It’s one of those small details that makes you appreciate how much thought goes into everyday things in Japan.

I also learned a bit about their story. Sugi Bee Garden started in Kumamoto, Kyushu, back in 1946, with just three hives and a dream. Today, they’re still guided by the same philosophy: respect for nature and healthy beekeeping. That makes me want to use their product even more.

And here’s the thing about beekeeping: we do kind of steal from the bees. We take their honey and give back sugar water, which is nowhere near as nice. Sorry, bees, but honey is just too good to forgo!

It helps that honey is good for you. It’s a natural alternative to sugar, packed with antioxidants, and soothing for sore throats. I’ve even heard that bee stings are supposed to help with arthritis, so I should be safe with all the stings I got when I was little!

If you’re looking for a better alternative to sugar, honey is hard to beat. And honestly, this is the perfect season for it, I can already feel that scratchy throat creeping in, which sounds like a great excuse for another spoonful!

And, if you want to study some bee-related Japanese you can watch the original company video here: https://sugi-bee.com/company_overview/?lang=en