Tottori Nijisseiki Pear Tart

**Fresh vs. packaged:** If you visit the shop in person, order the individual fresh tart (¥450) and eat it in the adjacent café seating area (small table near window). The tart is best within 3 hours of preparation when the custard is still soft and the crust maintains its flakiness. The packaged airport version uses preservatives to extend shelf life — convenient for gifts but noticeably different in texture. For personal consumption, always choose fresh. **Seasonal variations:** While the signature 20th Century pear tart is available year-round (using preserved pears in off-season), the shop offers seasonal fruit tarts May–October using fresh strawberries, peaches, and grapes. The fresh pear tart (using pears picked within 48 hours) is available only August–October. If visiting during pear season, request the 'nama-nashi tart' (生梨タルト, fresh pear tart) — the pear flavor is markedly more pronounced. **Whole tart option:** For groups or special occasions, order the full-size tart (¥2,800, serves 6–8). It requires 24-hour advance reservation (call or visit shop day before). The full tart showcases the concentric pear arrangement more dramatically than individual servings — the visual presentation is Instagram-worthy. Pickup time is flexible. **Pairing suggestion:** The shop also sells Tottori pear cider (¥380/bottle) — a sparkling non-alcoholic drink made from 20th Century pear juice. Drinking the cider with the tart creates a pear-on-pear flavor amplification that is absurdly indulgent but genuinely delightful. **Gift purchase:** The shop packages tarts in elegant boxes (¥1,200 for 6 mini tarts) suitable for omiyage (Japanese gift-giving). The mini tarts use the same recipe as the full-size version but in individual portions. Shelf life: 5 days refrigerated. Can be transported in carry-on luggage if purchased on departure day.