Ryan Hashimoto's journey from Tokyo to the Bay Area is somewhat weird. At 7, when Ryan first stepped into the U.S., it was the beginning of love with everything American—except for the soda aisles. The lack of diversity in flavors compared to what he was used to in Japan left him longing for the familiar yet innovative tastes of home.
Bridging Two Worlds
Ryan's vision was clear: to create a soda brand that embodies the best of both worlds—Japan's diverse beverage culture and America's spirit of innovation. Shonen Soda was not just about introducing new flavors to the American market; it was about weaving together the threads of two cultures into a vibrant tapestry of taste. Ryan aimed to capture the essence of Japanese childhood treats and American cream soda, creating a unique flavor profile that's both familiar and excitingly new.
Celebrating Diversity
For Ryan, Shonen Soda is more than a beverage brand; it's a celebration of cultural diversity and the beauty of mixing traditions. He loves everything about the U.S., from its vast landscapes to its melting pot of cultures. Shonen Soda reflects this appreciation by bridging the gap between Japanese tradition and American taste, offering a soda experience that's rooted in nostalgia yet boldly forward-looking.
The Spirit of Shonen
The name "Shonen," which means "boy" or "youth" in Japanese, reflects the brand's characteristics of adventure, enthusiasm, and the joy of discovery. It's about capturing the spirit of those manga and anime heroes that inspired Ryan as a child, and translating that into a brand that invites everyone to explore and enjoy the fusion of flavors.