Origin of Production: Kumamoto Prefecture, Japan
Category: Zakkan-Rui (Japanese for “citrus created through natural crossbreeding”)
Harvest Seasons: Kawachi Bankan is harvested from March to May. Unlike many other citrus fruits, Kawachi Bankan is best enjoyed after a period of storage, as this allows the fruit to develop its sweetness and mellow flavor.
Shape / Size:
Kawachibankan is medium to large in size, with a slightly flattened spherical shape. The fruit has a thick, bright yellow peel that is easy to remove. Sizes vary, but the typical diameter ranges from 80 to 100 mm.
Taste profile:
Kawachi Bankan is known for its gentle sweetness balanced by a subtle, refreshing acidity. The taste is less tangy than other citrus varieties, with a pleasant mild bitterness that enhances its complexity. Its flavor is often described as clean and smooth, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a less sharp citrus experience.
Other features and trivia:
- Kawachi Bankan is rich in Vitamin C and antioxidants, making it a healthy and versatile ingredient for both savory and sweet dishes.
- It is commonly used in salads, desserts, and drinks, while its thick peel is often candied or made into marmalade.
- This fruit improves in flavor when stored after harvest, developing sweetness and reducing bitterness.
Late-Harvest Citrus from Kumamoto Prefecture
Kawachi Bankan, a unique citrus variety, was discovered as an accidental seedling of Buntan around 1905 in Kawachi Town, Kumamoto Prefecture. Its name reflects both its place of origin (Kawachi) and its late harvest period, which typically occurs in early spring or later ("Bankan" meaning late harvest). Today, Kawachi Bankan is mainly grown in Kumamoto and Ehime Prefectures, with Ainan Town in Ehime being the largest production area, where it’s sold under the brand name Ainan Gold. It’s also cultivated in Kumamoto’s Amakusa region. Due to its sensitivity to cold temperatures, Kawachi Bankan is grown in warmer climates during the winter months.
The Grapefruit-Like Japanese Citrus
Descended from the pomelo, Kawachi Bankan is also known as "Japanese grapefruit." It blooms in May and is harvested in the spring of the following year. Its flavor varies by harvest period, and its peel contains the functional compound aurapten.
