Yamauchi Turnip (Fukui): season, origin and where to buy

Seasonal calendar

Harvested and shipped from November to February, peaking in December and January.

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

Yamauchi Kabura is a conical shaped turnip and has dents and many fibers. It maintains the firmness even if it is thoroughly cooked. The turnip also has crispness when it is pickled. The leaves are also edible.

Link with the production area

Yamauchi Kabura is a native variety, which has been cultivated in Yamauchi in Wakasa Town.Its original characteristics have been passed down from generation to generation by avoiding cross-breeds with other turnips. Its seed is rigidly managed, and is not allowed to use outside of the production 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/s16.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)

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

Some shop links on this page are affiliate links; we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

FAQ

Yamauchi Turnip is a native variety long grown in the Yamauchi district of Wakasa Town, Fukui Prefecture. Conical, with many dents and fine roots on its surface, it has dense, firm flesh that holds its shape when simmered and stays crunchy when pickled. The leaves are also eaten as greens.

Yamauchi Turnip is produced in Yamauchi, Wakasa Town, Mikatakaminaka County, Fukui Prefecture.

Yamauchi Turnip is in season (harvested or shipped) in Nov–Feb. Harvested and shipped from November to February, peaking in December and January.

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

Yamauchi Turnip was registered as a Geographical Indication on September 7, 2016 (Registration No. 16). The registered producer group is Yamauchi Kabura‐Chan Association.