Tokushima Sudachi (Tokushima): season, origin and where to buy

Seasonal calendar

With open-field, stored and greenhouse fruit combined, it is available year-round.

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

Tokushima Sudachi, which accounts for 98% of all sudachi shipments in Japan, is harvested when the skin is dark green, and is highly valued by consumers for its refreshing aroma and acidity.In Tokushima Prefecture, it is used as a garnish for various dishes in ordinary households, and is also in high demand at restaurants.

Link with the production area

Sudachi, whose original name "Sutachibana" comes from its unique aroma and sourness, has been native to Tokushima Prefecture since the Manyo period, and has been cultivated mainly for private use since ancient times.After the conversion to commercial cultivation since around 1965, Tokushima Prefecture developed and selected excellent varieties, and since then, it has been expanded nationwide. In 1974, sudachi was designated as the prefectural flower and has become a representative specialty product of Tokushima Prefecture.

Characteristics and link with the area: Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries website (https://www.maff.go.jp/e/policies/intel/gi_act/register/s129.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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FAQ

Sudachi citrus from Tokushima, which accounts for 98% of Japan's sudachi shipments. Harvested while the skin is still deep green, it has a refreshing aroma and tartness. Tokushima households squeeze it over all kinds of dishes, and its blossom is the prefectural flower.

Tokushima Sudachi is produced in Tokushima Prefecture.

Tokushima Sudachi is shipped all year round. With open-field, stored and greenhouse fruit combined, it is available year-round.

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

Tokushima Sudachi was registered as a Geographical Indication on March 31, 2023 (Registration No. 129). The registered producer group is Tokushima Prefecture Sudachi-Yuko Consumption Promotion Council.