Japanese Plum

すもも

A juicy summer fruit. Yamanashi Prefecture ranks first nationally, followed by Nagano and Wakayama. The Japanese name 'sumomo' derives from 'sour peach,' reflecting its more tart character compared to peach. Oishi Wase is the most widely distributed cultivar, recognized by its red skin and white flesh

Taste & Texture

A vivid contrast of sweetness and tartness. The skin is tart while the flesh is sweet. Juicy and rich. Flesh color ranges from red to yellow depending on cultivar; tartness mellows as the fruit fully ripens

Season

MONTHLY AVAILABILITY

Jul - Aug

PEAK

※ Season is based on domestic field-grown availability

How to Choose

  • Look for fruits with a natural waxy bloom and uniform color characteristic of the cultivar.

  • Slight give when gently pressed indicates optimal ripeness.

  • Avoid fruits with bruises or dents.

How to Store

  • Ripen underripe plums at room temperature.

  • Once ripe, store in a plastic bag in the refrigerator vegetable compartment.

  • Avoid over-chilling to preserve flavor; bring to room temperature for 30 minutes before eating.

Shelf life 4-5 days refrigerated, 2-3 days at room temperature while ripening

* High ethylene producer — store separately from other produce.

Nutrition Facts

Wholesale Market Data

MARKET INSIGHTS

CHEAPEST Nov ¥306/kg
BUSIEST Jul 2,489t
Volume (t)
In season
Price (yen/kg)

Source: MAFF Wholesale Market Survey for Fresh Produce (2023)

Production Ranking

Yamanashi39.1%
Nagano15.5%
Wakayama14.3%
Yamagata11.8%
Aomori5.8%
Others13.4%
10%+
5%+
2%+
0.1%+
None

Map data: National Land Numerical Information (MLIT Japan)

#
Prefecture
Harvest (t)
Share
1
5,690
39.1%
2
2,260
15.5%
3
2,080
14.3%
4
1,720
11.8%
5
844
5.8%

Source: MAFF Crop Statistics / Agricultural Census (2019)

Top 5 Prefecture Harvest Trends (2018-2023)

Yamanashi
Nagano
Wakayama
Yamagata
Aomori