Manganji Sweet Pepper (Kyoto): season, origin and where to buy

Seasonal calendar

Shipped from mid-May to late November, peaking in summer.

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

Manganji Amatou is a green pepper that does not contain spiciness. The skin of the pepper is thick and soft, and the whole part is edible. Its shoulder is narrowed and has a bent shape. It is characterized by the unique rustic aroma and sweetness.

Link with the production area

Manganji Amatou was born by the natural crossing of native variety “Fushimi Tougarashi” of Manganji District. The seed production is strictly managed in the producing area and Manganji Amatou is exclusively produced in this area.

Characteristics and link with the area: Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries website (https://www.maff.go.jp/e/policies/intel/gi_act/register/s37.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

Manganji Amato is a sweet, non-spicy chili pepper grown in Ayabe, Maizuru and Fukuchiyama cities in Kyoto Prefecture. Large and thick-walled like a bell pepper yet tender enough to eat whole, it has a narrowed shoulder, a slight curve, and a fresh, sweet aroma with a faint hint of chili.

Manganji Sweet Pepper is produced in Ayabe City, Maizuru City and Fukuchiyama City, Kyoto Prefecture.

Manganji Sweet Pepper is in season (harvested or shipped) in May–Nov. Shipped from mid-May to late November, peaking in summer.

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

Manganji Sweet Pepper was registered as a Geographical Indication on June 23, 2017 (Registration No. 37). The registered producer group is National Federation of Agricultural Cooperative Associations (ZEN-NOH).