Lake Abashiri Shijimi Clam (Hokkaido): season, origin and where to buy

Official registration details (MAFF)

The registered description as published by the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries.

Characteristics

Lake Abashiri Shijimi are Japanese basket clams allowed to grow to large sizes over a period of seven years or more under the cool climate of Abashiri. Lake Abashiri has pioneered shijimi shellfishing in Hokkaido Prefecture. Popular for its attractive color, gloss, and generous size, Lake Abashiri Shijimi trade at prices roughly 1.5 times higher than nationwide average.

Link with the production area

At Lake Abashiri, shellfish resources are managed rigorously in partnership with scientists and the local government. Shellfish population surveys are carried out, gross production is calculated, and annual and daily catch limits established. To ship products without loss of freshness, shellfishing vessels leave the port early in the morning in order to finish shellfishing before temperatures rise.

Characteristics and link with the area: Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries website (https://www.maff.go.jp/e/policies/intel/gi_act/register/s101.html)

Where to buy

As a rule, only products that meet the registered standard may use a GI name (with exceptions such as prior use). Check for the GI mark and the place of origin to tell it apart from ordinary products with similar names.

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These links go to Japanese-language shops; check whether they ship overseas.

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It is offered as a furusato nozei (hometown tax donation) gift by several municipalities, including Abashiri City and Ozora Town.

FAQ

Large Japanese basket clams (Yamato shijimi) that grow for about seven years or more in the cool climate of Lake Abashiri, Hokkaido. Glossy and substantial, they are harvested under catch limits set from stock surveys.

Lake Abashiri Shijimi Clam is produced in Abashiri City and Ozora Town (Abashiri County), Hokkaido.

Look for it via furusato nozei (hometown tax donation) and online shops. Check the GI mark and the place of origin before you buy.

Lake Abashiri Shijimi Clam was registered as a Geographical Indication on November 18, 2020 (Registration No. 101). The registered producer group is Nishi-Abashiri Fisheries Cooperative.