Strawberry Day (Ichigo no Hi)

What Is Strawberry Day?

January 15th is "Strawberry Day" (Ichigo no Hi) in Japan, named for the wordplay "ii (1) ichi (1) go (5)," which sounds like "ichigo" (strawberry). This falls right as strawberry harvesting hits its peak, when bright red, fully ripened berries begin filling store shelves. With their sweet-tart fragrance, strawberries on this day offer a chance to rediscover the appeal of a fruit that hints at the arrival of spring.

When Is Strawberry Season?

Strawberries are available year-round in supermarkets, but their true season runs from January to March. Thanks to advances in greenhouse cultivation, shipments begin as early as December, around Christmas, but strawberries become sweetest and most delicious after the new year. Mid-January, when Strawberry Day falls, is exactly when they're at their best.

Different Varieties, Different Seasons

In recent years, breeding advances have produced a wide range of varieties, from early to late season. By staggering harvest times, producers ensure delicious strawberries can be enjoyed over a long stretch of the year.

Japanese Strawberry Varieties

Japan is one of the world's leading countries for strawberry variety development. Regions across the country compete to create new varieties, each with its own distinct characteristics — sweetness, acidity, aroma, and texture — giving consumers plenty to choose from based on personal taste.

• Amaou — Originating in Fukuoka Prefecture, large berries with an excellent balance of sweetness and acidity
• Tochiotome — Tochigi Prefecture's signature variety, with a moderate tartness that appeals to a wide range of palates
• Beni Hoppe — From Shizuoka Prefecture, known for its rich sweetness and aroma
• Saga Honoka — From Saga Prefecture, with a clean, refreshing sweetness that's easy to enjoy
• Skyberry — A newer Tochigi Prefecture variety, large and juicy

The Nutrition and Benefits of Strawberries

Strawberries aren't just delicious — they're also packed with nutrients. These small berries contain plenty of compounds that are great for health and beauty.

A Powerhouse of Vitamin C

Strawberries are among the top fruits for vitamin C content. Eating just 7 to 8 medium-sized strawberries is said to provide the full daily recommended intake of vitamin C, helping with cold prevention and skin health.

Other Nutrients

Strawberries are also rich in folate, dietary fiber, potassium, and anthocyanins. Folate in particular is an important nutrient during early pregnancy, making strawberries a fruit that's especially great for women.

How to Choose Delicious Strawberries

• Look for a vivid green cap (calyx) that's perky and standing upright
• Choose berries with a uniform, deep red color all over
• Pick ones with a glossy surface and clearly visible seeds
• Go for berries with a strong, sweet aroma

Ways to Enjoy Strawberry Day

On Strawberry Day, why not fully enjoy strawberries while they're in season? Eating them as they are is great, but you could also go strawberry picking or try making your own strawberry desserts. Spend a sweet moment with family or friends, getting an early taste of spring.