Hello! I’m Tabeena, an avid traveler and lover of Kumamoto’s rich culinary culture.

Did you know that Yatsushiro is the second-largest municipality in Kumamoto Prefecture? It’s not just big in size—it’s also a powerhouse of agriculture. The region produces an astounding 27,700 tonnes of tomatoes each year, making it Japan’s No. 1 producer. But Yatsushiro’s agricultural bounty doesn’t stop at tomatoes. The area is also known for its iconic Banpeiyu citrus, as well as a variety of other fruits and vegetables that rank among the highest in production volume across the country.

The region’s geography plays a big role in this agricultural success. To the west lies the Shiranui Sea, while the central plains are filled with sprawling rice paddies. To the east, the Kyushu mountain range provides a stunning backdrop, with pristine rivers like the Kuma and Hikawa weaving through the landscape. This natural abundance makes Yatsushiro one of Japan’s premier agricultural hubs.

In this second chapter of “Exploring Yatsushiro’s Culinary Delights,” we’re turning the spotlight on the region’s iconic Banpeiyu citrus. Join us as we introduce delectable Banpeiyu-based sweets crafted by Yatsushiro Sunny Side Farm and share stories from local farmers about their dedication to cultivating this extraordinary fruit.

Stay tuned as we uncover the flavors and stories that make Yatsushiro a true culinary treasure.

Yatsushiro Sunny Side Farm’s Banpeiyu

Located in Kagami Town, Yatsushiro City, Yatsushiro Sunny Side Farm specializes in cultivating citrus fruits like Banpeiyu and Amanatsu.

Banpeiyu is a cultivar of pomelo which produces extremely large fruits.

This year, their Banpeiyu became a sensation on Twitter, gaining nationwide attention.

The buzz was so strong that their products sold out instantly on online stores! If you’re looking to try this viral Banpeiyu for yourself, you can purchase it directly from the farm.

In addition to fresh Banpeiyu, the farm has expanded its reach through several initiatives:

1. Food Truck Events

Yatsushiro Sunny Side Farm offers fresh juices made with “imperfect” fruits through a food truck, a project that achieved 180% of its crowdfunding goal. You’ll often spot their truck in various locations across the prefecture, serving freshly made juices using local ingredients.

2. Unmanned Stands

For those seeking the elusive Banpeiyu that sold out online, Sunny Side Farm operates unmanned stands where these special fruits can still be purchased. Check their Instagram for the latest information on where to find them! https://www.instagram.com/asis.farm/

3. Collaborations with Sweet Shops

The farm has also partnered with popular sweet shops in Tokyo. Limited-edition desserts featuring Banpeiyu have been a hit, including:

• Parfait Bar Agari (Setagaya Ward, Tokyo): Banpeiyu parfaits available for a limited time (https://www.instagram.com/parfaitbar_agari/)
• Premier Mai (Yoyogi Hachiman, Tokyo): A special “Night Parfait Plate” event (https://www.instagram.com/premiermai_tokyo/)

Farmers’ Dedication: Interview with Kenta Kuwahara

The passion behind Yatsushiro Sunny Side Farm starts with its owner, Kenta Kuwahara. Raised in Yatsushiro, Kuwahara was inspired to take up farming after multiple farm stays during his university years in Tokyo, where he studied developmental economics. In January 2022, he finally returned to Yatsushiro to establish the farm.

Kuwahara emphasizes raising the value of Banpeiyu through education and outreach. He explains, “Many people still don’t know about Banpeiyu or have never tried it. To change that, we started selling fresh juice from a kitchen truck at local events last December. Collaborating with local businesses like SUNABACO has helped us perfect our flavors and enhance our offerings.”

Additionally, Yatsushiro Sunny Side Farm is working on new processed products and collaborative projects with other farmers. “We have so many ideas in the works!” Kuwahara adds.

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Supporting the Future of Yatsushiro Agriculture

Kenta Kuwahara is also part of an exciting initiative involving 14 young farmers from the region. Together, they are tackling critical challenges facing agriculture in Yatsushiro through the newly launched project: Smart Agriculture Yatsushiro: Future Creation Council.

Launched in August 2022, the council is a collaboration between Yatsushiro City, JA Yatsushiro, and Kumamoto Prefecture. It aims to address major issues like rising production costs, labor shortages, and expanding distribution channels. Kuwahara and his peers have divided into three specialized teams, conducting research and implementing solutions over a three-year period:

1. Labor Efficiency & Workforce Development
2. Enhancing Yatsushiro Agriculture’s Appeal
3. Sustainable and Clean Farming Practices

Though each team has a unique focus, they share the common goal of creating a profitable and sustainable agricultural model while attracting the next generation of farmers. They’re also exploring innovative approaches to make agriculture more inclusive and accessible for young people and women.

You can follow updates and progress on their official Instagram account: Smart Agriculture Yatsushiro Instagram.

Wrapping Up

How did you enjoy this installment of “Exploring Yatsushiro’s Agriculture“? Stay tuned for more stories as we continue to highlight the people and flavors that make Yatsushiro a truly special destination. Until next time!