Fukuyama Kuwai Arrowhead Tuber (Hiroshima): season, origin and where to buy

Official registration details (MAFF)

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

Characteristics

Fukuyama Kuwai arrowhead tuber is characterized by its pleasantly floury texture and the vibrant blue hue of its exterior. It is in high demand as an auspicious food to eat during New Year celebrations. It is rated highly by the market for its consistent quality, little yearly fluctuation of supply, and rigorous program of product selection.

Link with the production area

Local production began around 1902, when the crop was planted on fertile soil inside the moats surrounding Fukuyama Castle. Local conditions are ideal for kuwai production--warmth and abundant sunshine are provided by climate typical of coastal areas of the Seto Inland Sea, and the network of irrigation canals built during the Edo period (17C-19C) supply the abundant water required for kuwai production.

Characteristics and link with the area: Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries website (https://www.maff.go.jp/e/policies/intel/gi_act/register/s97.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.

We have not found a reliable online or furusato nozei listing yet. Ask local farm stands or the producer group.

FAQ

Kuwai (arrowhead tubers) from Fukuyama City, Hiroshima. They have a vivid blue skin and a fluffy, tender texture, and are in demand as an auspicious ingredient in osechi New Year dishes. Cultivation began in the moats around Fukuyama Castle in the Meiji era.

Fukuyama Kuwai Arrowhead Tuber is produced in Fukuyama City, Hiroshima Prefecture.

We have not confirmed a reliable online or furusato nozei listing. Local farm stands or the producer group are your best bet.

Fukuyama Kuwai Arrowhead Tuber was registered as a Geographical Indication on June 29, 2020 (Registration No. 97). The registered producer group is Fukuyama City Agricultural Cooperative.