All-You-Can-Eat Delight & Discovering Niigata at THE NIIGATA
Echigohime Strawberries: Taste Niigata’s Sweetest Treasure in Ginza
Echigohime Strawberries: Taste Niigata’s Sweetest Treasure in Ginza – Last week, we had the incredible opportunity to experience the exquisite taste of Niigata’s renowned Echigohime strawberries at an all-you-can-eat media tasting event. It was a delightful first encounter with these luscious berries, and we were absolutely blown away by their sweetness and juiciness.
Check out the Instagram Reel for what we ate and did in the event.
Echigohime: A Jewel from Niigata
Echigohime is a premium strawberry variety that Niigata Prefecture proudly promotes. Born from meticulous research and cultivated with passion, it truly represents the best of Niigata. These Strawberries are mainly harvested in the Niigata prefecture, especially Niigata city and Gosen city are well known harvesting areas.
The Birth of Echigohime
Echigohime came into existence in 1996, inheriting the best traits of its parent varieties: Nyohou from the Kanto region, Toyonoka from Kyushu, and Belle Rouge from the Tohoku region. It’s a testament to the dedication and innovation of Niigata’s farmers.
A Name Fit for a Princess
The name “Echigohime” translates to “Echigo Princess,” a fitting tribute to its delicate appearance and refreshing sweetness. With its fragrant aroma and juicy texture, each bite is a moment of pure bliss.
The Secret to Echigohime’s Sweetness
Echigohime strawberries thrive in Niigata’s snowy climate, maturing slowly over two months. This extended ripening period allows them to develop their signature large size and low acidity. The long winters of Niigata enable farmers to nurture each strawberry, resulting in an exceptionally sweet fruit.
Harvesting Season
Typically, Echigohime strawberries are harvested from January to June, with the peak season occurring around March to May.
Experience Niigata at THE NIIGATA in Ginza
To truly immerse yourself in the flavors of Niigata, head to THE NIIGATA in Ginza. This unique establishment offers a wide array of Niigata’s specialties, including:
- THE ONIGIRI Ya: Enjoy exquisite onigiri made with Uonuma Koshihikari rice.
- Niigata Sake, THE SAKE Stand: Sample over 40 varieties of Niigata’s renowned sake, with guidance from an AI sommelier.
- THE NIIGATA Bit GINZA: Savor Italian cuisine crafted with Niigata ingredients.
THE NIIGATA Information:
Address: SANWA Suzuran Bldg., 5-6-7 Ginza, Chuo-ku, Tokyo
Hours: 10:30 AM to 7:30 PM (varies by floor)
URL: https://the-niigata.jp/
