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Discover Miyazaki's Premium Mango: Taiyo no Tamago

Miyazaki Prefecture, often called Japan's sunny haven, boasts a warm climate and fertile lands that are home to a wealth of delicious produce. Known for its exceptional quality, Miyazaki is famous for its Miyazaki beef, chicken, pork, vegetables, and fruits. One of the pride of this region is its mangoes, particularly the renowned 'Taiyo no Tamago'.

Every year, the sale of these ripe mangoes kicks off in April, coinciding with the first auction of the season. 'Taiyo no Tamago' is a brand recognized for its rich sweetness and melt-in-your-mouth texture, making it a sought-after item across Japan. The official launch of sales for this year's mangoes is scheduled for April, with anticipation building for spring's finest fruit.

What Sets Miyazaki Mango Apart?

The 'Taiyo no Tamago' mangoes are harvested only when they are fully ripe, having matured on the tree before being allowed to naturally drop to the ground. Such rigorous farming practices guarantee a concentrated sweetness that is unmatched. To be classified as 'Taiyo no Tamago', the mango must meet specified standards for sugar content and size, ensuring it is one of the highest-caliber fruits available in the market.

In a nod to its significance, May 25 has been designated as 'Miyazaki Mango Day' by the Japan Anniversary Association, cleverly based on the phrase '5 (for mango) and 25 (for smile)', marking the height of the mango season.

Annual Debut of 'Taiyo no Tamago'

The unveiling of 'Taiyo no Tamago' mangoes has consistently garnered excitement within the local community and among fruit enthusiasts nationwide. Last year, the first auction took place on April 17, where a box containing two mangoes (4L size, approximately 1 kilogram) fetched an impressive 525,000 yen at the Miyazaki Central Wholesale Market, setting records for the highest price for this exquisite fruit.

Seasonal Highlights of Miyazaki’s Culinary Delights

Alongside the delectable mangoes, spring in Miyazaki also brings a variety of seasonal delicacies.

• - First Bonito (Hatsu Katsuo): Each year from February to May, local fishermen land the first bonito during its migration north, making it a local delicacy famously enjoyed as sashimi.
• - Meitsu Bimi Aji: Known for its flavor and freshness, this brand of horse mackerel is harvested from a top fishing port, especially popular from March to June.
• - Hyuga Natsu: Discovered approximately 200 years ago, this citrus fruit is famed for its unique sweetness and flavor, making it a must-try from December to May.
• - Miyazaki Melons: Recognized for their remarkable sweetness, these melons are inspected to ensure a sugar content of 13.5 or higher, available from November to July.
• - New Onions: With a refreshing sweetness and tender texture, these onions are harvested from January to May.
• - Miyazaki Vitamin Peppers: The first in Japan to be certified as a nutrient-functional food, these peppers are harvested from October to June.
• - Dried Shiitake Mushrooms: Known for their thick texture, these mushrooms are cultivated in Miyazaki and are available from November to April.

As we eagerly await the arrival of 'Taiyo no Tamago', it's also the perfect time to explore and indulge in other delightful spring produce from Miyazaki. The region's commitment to quality and flavor ensures a food experience like no other, inviting all to savor the richness of its agricultural bounty this season.