
If you’re a fan of fresh, vibrant fruits, Japan’s ...
- Jan. 16. 2025
Strawberries in Japan are on another level. These delicate ruby-red gems have transformed strawberries from a simple snack to a highly coveted delicacy. Japanese strawberries are much more than just a fruit – they symbolize generations of devotion. Japanese farmers have cultivated more than 300 unique varieties since developing the first in the 1890s: the “Fukuba Strawberry.” These berries arrive in full bloom from late autumn through spring, enchanting everyone with their signature blend of sweetness and tang. Japan is one of the few places in the world where strawberries are considered a true delicacy. Whether you’re a casual berry lover or a true strawberry enthusiast, here’s why Japan’s strawberries are worth a closer look—and a bite.
Tochigi Prefecture wears its “Strawberry Kingdom” crown proudly. As Japan’s leading strawberry producer for over 50 years, Tochigi has the highest purchase rate per household and the largest strawberry fields.
Tochigi owes much of its strawberry success to the region’s distinctive growing conditions. Strawberries thrive in Tochigi’s distinctive climate, where they slowly ripen in a delicate balance of long winter days, striking seasonal contrasts, and the day-to-night temperature swings that are essential to concentrate the berry’s sugars. Additionally, the rich, mineral-laden underground water and nutrient-dense soil, create the perfect environment for the infamous deeply colored, intensely flavorful Tochigi strawberries.
There’s a bit of a ritual when enjoying Japanese strawberries in their prime condition. When looking to buy berries, find the ones that are red all the way up to the stem, are firm, and slightly glossy — an indication they’ve hit peak ripeness. Contrary to popular opinion, it is said to eat the strawberries from the stem and work your way to the tip, saving the sweetest bite for last. For an extra treat, add a bit of freshly whipped cream or blend the berries with milk in a simple 8:2 (milk to strawberries) ratio to make a delicious strawberry milk drink.
There’s a reason parfaits are such a crowd favorite for showcasing strawberries. The seasonal strawberry parfait at the Shiseido Parlour, features specially crafted ice cream topped with premium berries handpicked from across Japan. This treat is not only luxurious, but it’s incredibly delicious, with the rare, carefully sourced strawberries taking center stage.
Strawberry daifuku is a springtime classic that combines the freshness of a ripe berry with a smooth layer of sweet bean paste, all wrapped in a soft mochi shell. Azabu Juban An’s “Ichigo Milk Daifuku” elevates this treat further by blending creamy Belgian white chocolate into the filling and pairing it with the “Tochiotome Strawberry”, which is known for its bright, juicy sweetness.
Japan’s iconic strawberry shortcake is a staple for special celebrations. Unlike Western-style cakes, which favor dense layers and rich buttercream, Japan’s shortcakes are delicate with a light sponge and airy whipped cream. The cake and the strawberries create a soft balance of flavors that feels perfectly in tune with Japan’s love for subtle, harmonious textures. The red and white cake, reflecting the colors of Japan’s flag, symbolizes joy and is a cherished choice for special occasions.