Japanese fruits are globally praised for their exceptional quality and freshness. Among them, strawberries come into season from winter to spring. In addition to popular varieties like "Tochiotome" and "Amaou," newer types such as white and black strawberries are gaining attention. This article introduces these unique varieties, along with ways to enjoy strawberries in Japan, including strawberry picking, strawberry buffets, and strawberry afternoon teas.
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The Appeal of Japanese Strawberries
Strawberries are a fruit packed with nutrients, particularly Vitamin C, which they contain at roughly twice the amount found in oranges or grapefruits. They are also rich in folic acid (a B vitamin) and anthocyanins, a type of polyphenol. These nutrients make strawberries a food that can help prevent aging and illness, maintain eye health, and promote beautiful skin.
On top of that, strawberries are low in calories—just 34 calories per 100 grams (about 6–7 strawberries). They are a great choice for those mindful of their beauty and health.
Did you know that Japanese strawberries are highly regarded internationally? Their popularity comes from their "sweet, juicy flavor" and "high quality."
Strawberries are enjoyed all over the world, but Japanese strawberries stand out for their sweetness and delicious taste. This reputation stems from continuous efforts in variety improvement and innovation in cultivation techniques since strawberries were first brought to Japan in the late Edo period. As a result, there are approximately 300 varieties of strawberries in Japan today, each with unique characteristics. The balance of sweetness and tartness differs between varieties, and the appearance ranges from deep red to white, catering to diverse consumer preferences.
Additionally, Japan's meticulous quality control and freshness management play a key role in the global appeal of its strawberries. To maintain quality, Japan has developed specialized packaging and transportation methods, ensuring that strawberries remain fresh even when shipped overseas.
The Peak Season for Strawberries in Japan
The peak season for strawberries is from December to February. However, depending on the cultivation method, they can be enjoyed in some regions until early May. Recently, "summer strawberries," which are available during the warmer months, have also been developed.
Under natural conditions, strawberries typically ripen from May to June. However, thanks to greenhouse cultivation techniques, strawberries are now commonly shipped in winter to meet the demand of the Christmas season. This demand has driven advancements in cultivation, making strawberries a winter staple in Japan. As a result, prices tend to be highest during this period.
Interestingly, strawberries become sweeter in colder weather and more tart as temperatures rise. This is because colder temperatures slow down growth, allowing strawberries to accumulate more sugar. If you're looking for the sweetest strawberries, aim to enjoy them between January and February, after a period of consistent cold weather.
A Guide to Japanese Strawberry Varieties
Strawberries are enjoyed worldwide, but Japan is said to lead in global consumption of fresh strawberries. As previously mentioned, Japan excels in developing new varieties and improving existing ones, boasting over 300 types.
Here are the top 10 strawberry-producing prefectures in 2023, along with their representative varieties:
- Tochigi (Tochiotome, Tochihime, Skyberry)
- Fukuoka (Amaou)
- Kumamoto (Yubeni, Hinoshizuku)
- Aichi (Akihime)
- Shizuoka (Benihoppe, Kirapika)
- Nagasaki (Yumenoka)
- Ibaraki (Tochiotome)
- Chiba (Tochiotome, Shinku no Misuzu)
- Saga (Ichigosan, Tenshi no Mi)
- Miyagi (Mouikko)
(Source: Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, "2023 Prefectural Strawberry Production Statistics" https://www.e-stat.go.jp/stat-search/file-download?statInfId=000040235276&fileKind=0)
Japan's focus on developing branded strawberries has even led to the term "Strawberry Wars," referring to the fierce competition among prefectures.
Here are three representative varieties:
Tochiotome
This is the most widely cultivated variety in Tochigi Prefecture. Known for its high sugar content, moderate tartness, and abundant juice, Tochiotome strawberries are large and deep red. They are often priced at around ¥300–¥600 per pack in supermarkets, making them a relatively affordable choice among strawberries.
Amaou
Originating in Fukuoka Prefecture, the name "Amaou" is derived from the Japanese words for "red, round, large, and delicious" (akai, marui, ookii, umai). These strawberries are large, with a rounded shape near the stem. Amaou strawberries are typically priced at ¥600–¥1,000 per pack in supermarkets, often making them more expensive than Tochiotome.
Benihoppe
Cultivated mainly in Shizuoka Prefecture, Benihoppe strawberries are red throughout, even at the core. The name "Benihoppe," meaning "red cheeks," reflects their delightful taste, said to make your cheeks blush. They are large, cone-shaped, and feature a strong balance of sweetness and tartness. Prices in supermarkets range from ¥400–¥800 per pack.
Here are five additional distinctive varieties:
Skyberry
Developed in Tochigi Prefecture, Skyberry strawberries are large, often weighing over 25 grams per berry, with a beautiful conical shape. Their slightly firm skin makes them long-lasting, while their juicy flesh is perfect for eating fresh. They also make a striking addition to cakes or tarts due to their size and shape.
Toukun (Peach Scent)
With a pale pink hue, Toukun strawberries have a peach-like aroma and contain elements reminiscent of coconut and caramel, offering a unique flavor profile. They are in season around February and have soft skin, so it's best to check for damage before purchasing. Enjoy them fresh to savor their fruity fragrance.
Yotsuboshi
A "seed-propagating" variety, Yotsuboshi strawberries are easier to cultivate compared to traditional methods that rely on propagating seedlings from parent plants, which can carry diseases and incur high maintenance costs. With a balanced tartness, softer berries are ideal for making jams or sauces.
Tenshi no Mi (Angel's Fruit)
Known for its striking white appearance, this variety is exceptionally large, averaging 60 grams per berry. Despite its size, Tenshi no Mi has a mild sweetness with low tartness. Registered as a new variety in 2014, it is exclusively grown in Karatsu, Saga Prefecture.
Shinku no Misuzu (Crimson Bell)
Nicknamed the "black strawberry" for its dark, deep red hue, Shinku no Misuzu was developed in Chiba Prefecture and registered in 2015. This variety boasts high sugar content with low acidity, offering a rich flavor. Its dark color is due to anthocyanins, which are three times more concentrated than in Tochiotome strawberries. The firm skin enhances its shelf life.
How to Choose Delicious Strawberries
Here are some tips for selecting strawberries at supermarkets and other stores.
The fruit should be fully red.
- The skin should be firm and glossy.
- The calyx (green leafy part) should look fresh and firm.
- The seeds on the skin should be clearly visible.
Let’s go into detail about each point.
Strawberries turn bright red when fully ripe. Strawberries with poor coloration often have lower sugar content or a stronger sour taste, so aim for ones with vibrant red skin. Fully ripened strawberries are more prone to damage, which is why they are typically harvested and shipped with some white parts still visible. However, strawberries with prominent white areas may have been picked too early, so it’s best to avoid them.
That said, depending on the variety, even fully ripe strawberries can have a pale or whitish appearance. Be sure to check the specific variety and its mature color to make an informed choice.
Fresh strawberries have firm, glossy skin. Even if the strawberries are red, those with dull or loose skin may not be fresh. This also applies to white strawberries, pink strawberries, and black strawberries.
The calyx should not be wilted and should have a clean green color and firm shape. Another important point is that the seeds on the skin should stand out clearly. It’s also a good idea to check for any signs of damage or poor coloration.
How to Enjoy Strawberries: 1. Strawberry Picking
Fruit picking is a highly popular tourist activity. Many farms offer all-you-can-eat strawberries for 30 or 45 minutes, and some allow you to take home the strawberries you pick as souvenirs.
In general, the best season for strawberry picking is from January to March. The cool weather makes strawberries taste even more refreshing. Depending on the area or farm, you may be able to enjoy strawberry picking through May or even June. The peak season varies by variety, so it’s worth visiting when the type of strawberry you want to try is at its best.
Some farms also grow multiple varieties, allowing visitors to compare flavors and discover their favorite local strawberries.
Recently, many farms have adopted "elevated cultivation" systems where strawberries are grown at various heights. This setup reduces the need to bend over, making it easier on your body. Additionally, farms using "hydroponic cultivation" are becoming more common, enabling visitors to enjoy strawberry picking without worrying about getting their shoes dirty.
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How to Enjoy Strawberries: 2. Strawberry Buffets and Afternoon Teas
From December to late February each year, strawberry buffets are held at famous hotels and restaurants across Japan, including in Tokyo and Osaka. These events offer all-you-can-eat premium strawberries, as well as cakes and desserts made with strawberries.
Prices vary from ¥3,000 to ¥5,000 or more. Buffets at popular hotels like Hilton Tokyo are especially in demand, so reservations are essential.
In recent years, afternoon tea has also become a major trend in Japan. Many people enjoy visiting hotels and cafés to explore "afternoon tea activities." Hotels known for their strawberry buffets, such as The Peninsula Tokyo and Grand Hyatt Tokyo, also host afternoon tea events. Prices generally range from ¥4,000 to ¥8,000.
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Search for restaurants with strawberry afternoon teas on Ikkyu.com 👉Here
How to Enjoy Strawberries: 3. Strawberry Sweets
You can enjoy a variety of sweets made with fresh strawberries in many locations. Classic options include strawberry shortcakes, parfaits, strawberry sandwiches, strawberry daifuku, and candied strawberries. These can be found at pastry shops, department stores, and convenience stores.
Some strawberry-based treats, such as cookies, macarons, and chocolates, have a longer shelf life, making them perfect for souvenirs.
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Enjoy the best of Japan’s strawberries, a fruit loved worldwide!
References:
Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries "AFF" December issue, published on December 2, 2019 (reference date: January 5, 2025) https://www.maff.go.jp/j/pr/aff/1912/spe1_02.html
Wakasa Seikatsu "Wakasa no Secret", last accessed April 24, 2018 (reference date January 5, 2025) https://himitsu.wakasa.jp/contents/strawberry/
Trading.com "Trade Know-how by Product", last accessed 2024/11/29 (Reference date: 2025/1/5) https://boueki.standage.co.jp/strawberry/
Vegetable Information Site Fruit Navi (Reference date: January 5, 2025) https://www.kudamononavi.com/lists/strawberry
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