This time, I’m introducing Connie’s Chocolate Banana, a small local business based in Isshiki, Hayama.
“Chocolate bananas are something you eat at festivals.”
Many people probably have that image in mind.
But Connie’s chocolate bananas are a little different.
They are adorable to look at, and one bite is enough to make you smile.
More than anything, behind them is the story of an owner who began chasing a new dream at the age of 60.
He now travels beyond Hayama to events both inside and outside Kanagawa, continuing to bring smiles to people wherever he goes.
Here, I’ll introduce what makes Connie and his chocolate bananas so special.
Charm 1: From Hayama to Events Near and Far—A Chocolate Banana Stand That Delivers Smiles
While Connie’s Chocolate Banana is based at its Isshiki location in Hayama, it also actively appears at events in many different places.
In July alone, Connie traveled to Chigasaki, Higashi-Zushi, Kurihama, Tokyo, and more.
“Where will Connie be today?”
Many fans check Instagram for the latest event schedule and go out of their way to see him.
The Hayama Isshiki location is open every Wednesday.
At events, you can enjoy the chocolate bananas together with the unique atmosphere of each venue.
Children choosing their favorite one with sparkling eyes.
Parents and children happily taking photos together.
Just watching these scenes is enough to make you smile too.
“It feels less like going to a shop and more like going to see Connie himself. I quickly understood why he has so many loyal fans.”
Charm 2: A New Chapter in Life That Began at 60
Connie started his chocolate banana business after turning 60.
“I still wanted to challenge myself with something new.”
That feeling is what inspired him to begin.
Rather than giving up because of his age, he chose to turn something he genuinely wanted to do into his work.
His decision has encouraged many people.
He has also founded the Japan Chocolate Banana Association and now works to share the appeal of chocolate bananas across the country.
His next dream is to travel around Japan in a kitchen trailer and bring smiles to even more people.
He is already taking on that new challenge.
“Not ‘already 60,’ but ‘only 60.’ After meeting Connie, I truly understood what those words mean.”
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Charm 3: One Bite Will Surprise You—the Chocolate Isn’t the Only Star
Connie’s chocolate bananas are about more than their adorable appearance.
What surprised me most when I tried one was how delicious the banana itself was.
Not overly ripe, but not too green either.
Each banana is apparently served at just the right stage of ripeness to pair perfectly with the chocolate.
The crisp snap of the chocolate and the smooth texture of the banana create such a satisfying combination that it makes you think, “I never knew chocolate bananas could taste this good.”
At the event, it was lovely to see everyone—from small children to adults—happily enjoying them with a smile.
“Honestly, this completely changed the way I think about chocolate bananas. It is a little different from the ones you find at festival stalls.”
Charm 4: An Event Favorite—Why Smiles Naturally Gather Here
People naturally gather in front of Connie’s stand.
“So cute!”
“May I take a photo?”
Voices like these could be heard one after another.
Of course, many people line up to buy a chocolate banana, but I also had the impression that plenty of visitors came because they were looking forward to chatting with Connie himself.
At some events, a long line even forms.
His cheerful, energetic service and warm personality are clearly what bring so many customers back again and again.
“I immediately understood why so many customers say, ‘I came to see you again!’”
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Charm 5: From Hayama to All of Japan—the Dream Is Just Beginning
The challenge Connie began at 60 is far from reaching its final destination.
While continuing to appear at events around the country, he is now preparing to pursue his dream of traveling throughout Japan with a kitchen trailer.
Chocolate bananas that began in Hayama may one day bring smiles to people all across Japan.
Just imagining that future is enough to make you feel excited too.
Turning something you love into your work.
Understanding that it is never too late to take on a new challenge.
Connie’s stand is filled with these positive and encouraging messages.
“You can keep chasing your dreams at any age. Watching Connie gave me a wonderful boost of energy too.”
Baby & Family Note
Since Connie mainly sells at events, it is generally easy to stop by with small children.
Chocolate bananas are a popular treat that bring the fun of a Japanese festival, and children are sure to love them.
Facilities vary depending on the event venue, so please check the individual event information if you plan to visit with a stroller.
Dog-Friendly Information
Because Connie mainly sells at outdoor event venues, it is often easy to stop by with your dog.
However, pet policies vary from one event to another, so please check the rules for each venue before visiting.
Access Information
Store Name: Connie’s Chocolate Banana Hayama Isshiki Location
Address: 1464 Isshiki, Hayama, Miura District, Kanagawa (Hayama Genbei Isshiki Store)
Opening Hours: Every Wednesday (Please check Instagram for the latest details)
Closed: Appears at events on days other than Wednesday
Parking: Not confirmed
Instagram: @koni_chocobanana
Website: Not confirmed
Summary | A Dream That Began at 60 Is Still Bringing Smiles Today
Connie’s Chocolate Banana was more than just a sweet treat—it was a place that connects people.
In addition to opening at the Hayama Isshiki location, Connie travels to events both inside and outside Kanagawa, continuing to bring smiles wherever he goes.
Behind it all is his determination to take on something new.
His decision to follow a dream regardless of age gives courage to many people.
If you spot Connie at an event, be sure to stop by.
Along with a delicious chocolate banana, you may find yourself taking home a little extra energy and inspiration too.
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References
・Connie’s Chocolate Banana Official Instagram
・Interview with Connie
・Event appearance information (July 2026)
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Hello, this is Peli from Hayama Navi!
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