Nissato Green Onion (Tochigi): season, origin and where to buy

Seasonal calendar

Harvested from around December to March, when the cold makes it sweeter, with the peak around December.

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

NISSATO GREEN ONION is a heirloom vegetable. It is characterized by its arch in the white stalk portion. It has a soft texture and sweetness, and is often traded at a high price.

Link with the production area

The soil (Clay-like black coarse soil with small pebbles) and the climate (a good amount of sunlight and cold temperature in winter) promote the growth and increase the sweetness of NISSATO GREEN ONION. The area has cultivated NISSATO GREEN ONION for more than 100 years without changing the cultivar and the production method.

Characteristics and link with the area: Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries website (https://www.maff.go.jp/e/policies/intel/gi_act/register/s35.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.

It rarely reaches wholesale markets and is sold mainly locally or as gifts.

FAQ

Nissato Green Onion is a curved negi grown in Nissato, Utsunomiya City, Tochigi Prefecture, using the same variety and methods since the late Edo period. Its white blanched section bends like a bow, and it is tender and very sweet, making it a popular year-end and New Year gift.

Nissato Green Onion is produced in Nissato Town, Utsunomiya City, Tochigi Prefecture.

Nissato Green Onion is in season (harvested or shipped) in Dec–Mar. Harvested from around December to March, when the cold makes it sweeter, with the peak around December.

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

Nissato Green Onion was registered as a Geographical Indication on May 26, 2017 (Registration No. 35). The registered producer group is NISSATO GREEN ONION Production Cooperative.