Akita’s Most Radiant Sweet Fruit:: Igarashi Orchard

Text by Lai Peixuan  Photography by Chi Binghui

With its beautiful mountains and pristine waters, Akita naturally produces apples that are crisp and sweet. The apple season here runs from late November to late January of the following year, with the “Fuji” and “Ōrin” varieties being the most famous. Bathed in natural sunlight, Fuji apples shine brilliantly like rubies, while Ōrin apples have yellowish-green skins with fine, tightly packed flesh. These two crispy, juicy apple varieties become Akita’s most enchanting colorful gems. In addition, Akita peaches are also highly renowned, with their season typically from mid- to late September.

Igarashi Orchard, owned by a handsome proprietor, is located in the Masuda area of Yokote City, Akita Prefecture, and offers visitors the delightful experience of apple picking (cost is 1,000 yen per person, and you can fill an entire basket). It’s a rare and memorable experience. The orchard grows various types of apples including “Ryōka,” “Shinano Sweet,” “Akita Gold,” “Hokuto,” and “Fuji,” each with its own unique flavor. Reservations for apple picking can be made by phone in advance.