Fancy a few drizzles of olive oil over your ice cream? Or how about becoming a certified "olive oil sommelier"?

Olive oil is once again gaining popularity in Japan, after first coming under the spotlight in the 1990s for its health benefits. Various olive oils from several countries are entering the market, and consumption is on the rise.

At a recent tasting session organized by the Olive Oil Sommelier Association of Japan, 10 participants — men and women in their 20s to 50s — listened attentively as a lecturer explained how to properly taste the oil: Sip some onto the tongue and inhale.