Arakawa Peach (Wakayama): season, origin and where to buy

Seasonal calendar

With varieties ripening one after another, they are available from mid-June to early August.

Timing shifts with the weather and conditions in each region.

Official registration details (MAFF)

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

Characteristics

Because of its excellent appearance and good taste, as well as its several hundred year history and high profile, Arakawa Peach is traded at a high price in the wholesale market.The spectacular pink carpet-like view during the blooming season, reminiscent of Shangri-La, is a seasonal tradition in the region and attracts many tourists.

Link with the production area

In this region, peaches have been cultivated since the Edo period owing to natural conditions such as the mild climate and sandy-gravel soil with good drainage, and the production of high-quality peaches has been established through the accumulation of cultivation techniques, etc. over many years. By promoting the production of peaches throughout the region, an integrated peach field called “100,000 peaches at a glance” has been formed.

Characteristics and link with the area: Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries website (https://www.maff.go.jp/e/policies/intel/gi_act/register/s133.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.

Find on furusato nozei (opens in a new tab)Find online (opens in a new tab)

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

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FAQ

Peaches grown around Momoyama, Kinokawa City, Wakayama, since the Edo period. Their good looks, flavor, long history and reputation earn high prices at wholesale markets. In spring the orchards bloom in a carpet of pink that draws many visitors.

Arakawa Peach is produced in Momoyama Town and Takebusa, Kinokawa City, Wakayama Prefecture.

Arakawa Peach is in season (harvested or shipped) in Jun–Aug. With varieties ripening one after another, they are available from mid-June to early August.

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

Arakawa Peach was registered as a Geographical Indication on July 20, 2023 (Registration No. 133). The registered producer group is Arakawa Peach Promotion Council.