Sweet Potato

さつまいも

A quintessential autumn food in Japan. Versatile in cooking — baked, tempura, or as sweet potato dessert. Kagoshima Prefecture leads production

Taste & Texture

Sweetness intensifies when heated, with a creamy texture. Varieties range from dry-fluffy to moist types

Season

MONTHLY AVAILABILITY

Sep - Nov

PEAK

※ Season is based on domestic field-grown availability

How to Choose

  • Choose ones with uniform, glossy skin that feel heavy.

  • Avoid any with cuts or cracks.

How to Store

  • Do not refrigerate.

  • Wrap in newspaper and store in a cool, dark place at 13-15°C.

Shelf life 1-2 months at room temperature

Nutrition Facts

Retail Price

Price Trend

Cheapest Apr ¥636/1kg
Most Expensive Aug ¥718/1kg

Annual Average

¥675/1kg

Source: Statistics Bureau Retail Price Survey (2026)

Production Ranking

Kagoshima30.1%
Ibaraki28.0%
Chiba12.8%
Miyazaki9.6%
Tokushima3.8%
Others15.8%
10%+
5%+
2%+
0.1%+
None

Map data: National Land Numerical Information (MLIT Japan)

#
Prefecture
Harvest (t)
Share
1
215,400
30.1%
2
200,200
28.0%
3
91,300
12.8%
4
68,900
9.6%
5
27,100
3.8%

Source: MAFF Crop Statistics (2023)

Top 5 Prefecture Harvest Trends (2018-2023)

Kagoshima
Ibaraki
Chiba
Miyazaki
Tokushima