Satsuma Mikan (JDT Recommends)

Mikan are Japanese citrus fruits, similar to tangerines or clementines. Japan produces over 250,000 tons of mikan a year, with the majority coming from the island of Shikoku. Mikan are a variety of citrus fruits, ranging from sweet and tangy to more tart and mellow flavors. Shikoku's Ehime Prefecture produces the majority of mikan, as well as many of the varieties. Among the list, Ehime is popular for: Harehime, Kiyomi, Kawachi Bankan, and Haruka mikans. Each has a unique flavor profile depending on acidic contents and size. The mikan are more cold resistant than other citrus fruits, which allow them to thrive and grow in Ehime and the rest of Shikoku.

Ehime bases a lot of their exports on mikan, which is why the prefecture's mascot is a mikan known as Mikyan, and you can often find citrus themed-goods or snacks at various gift stores in the prefecture. It also isn't unusual to see collaboration events featuring Mikyan and Ehime landmarks with famous Anime characters or other popular brands. These collaborations are meant to improve tourism and help sell local specialties or products.

Don't think there's a difference between American tangerines and Satsuma Mikan grown in Ehime? Stop by a supermarket or ask your tour-guide to help you find delicious satsuma mikan while traveling with Japan Deluxe Tours during our fully-guided line of Southern Japan & Grand Tour vacation packages through Japan's southern islands!