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Volume 1
The King of Pears and Kumamoto Castle
We heard there are large pears that grow as big as a human face. It is said they grow at Hikawa Town, Yatsushiro District, in central Kumamoto Prefecture. So, we will visit the pear farm with KUMAMON and reporter MISAKI!
KUMAMON is very excited to experience the harvest of giant pears.
After that, we will explore the inside of Kumamoto Castle, one of the most famous castles in Japan!
fruit
Famous placefruit
Niitaka Pear
This variety was created in the early Showa period and is known for its large fruits, the big one is over 1 kg.
Please enjoy the mellow aroma that fills your mouth, pleasant texture and sweet fruit.
Season
Harvesting starts in September every year, and distribution starts around early September.The best time to eat them is from early September to late October.
Hikawa Town, Yatsushiro District, Kumamoto Prefecture.
The birthplace of pear farming in the prefecture with 100 years of history.
Hikawa Town, Yatsushiro district is located in the center of the prefecture, where agriculture is active and a variety of products are grown.In 37th year of the Meiji period, Mr. Kumasaburo Yamada planted the first pear seedlings in former Yoshino Village, from there pear farming spread throughout the prefecture.The pears produced in the hills of the eastern part of town are known as ‘Yoshino pears’ and have been presented to the Emperor of Japan.
Every year at the end of the cherry blossom season, you can see the beautiful white pear blossom in the fields.The valley of Hikawa River running through the town called ‘Tategamikyo’ is famous.
In summer season, it is a resort where you can play in the river. In late autumn, it is a famous spot for viewing the autumn leaves.
Famous place
Kumamoto Castle
Don't miss visiting the castle when you are in Kumamoto!
It is the famous castle where Japan’s history is engraved
‘Kumamoto Castle’ is known as one of the three most famous castles in Japan, it was built in 1599 by the famous general Kiyomasa Kato.
The castle has been the stage of many historical events in Japan for about 400 years. Since its construction it has attracted many people and has become a spiritual center for the citizens of Kumamoto.
The site is also famous as a "cherry blossom viewing spot" with about 800 cherry trees of three types: mountain cherry, Higo cherry and Someiyoshino.
＊Kumamoto Castle was severely damaged by the earthquake that struck in April 2016 and is currently undergoing restoration work, so access is partially restricted.
©2010 Kumamoto Pref. Kumamon