Harvest the Scent of Yuzu:
A Rural Experience in Umaji Village

Yuzu, known for its refreshing aroma and mellow acidity, is one of Japan’s most familiar citrus fruits and a beloved ingredient that plays a supporting role in bringing out the flavors of a wide variety of dishes.

Kochi Prefecture accounts for approximately 50% of Japan’s domestic yuzu production, and Umaji Village is one of the region’s major yuzu-producing areas. With a population of around 800, this small village has no traffic lights or convenience stores, and time seems to pass at a wonderfully leisurely pace.

Surrounded by abundant nature, approximately 96% of the village is covered by forest. In autumn, the steep mountain slopes come alive with yuzu trees cultivated on terraced fields. From late October through November, during the harvest season, the refreshing aroma of yuzu fills the village and has become one of the defining scents of autumn in Umaji.

Yuzu in Umaji is grown without the use of chemical fertilizers, pesticides, or herbicides. Every part of the fruit is put to good use, from the juice to the peel and even the seeds.

On this tour, you will visit a yuzu orchard in Umaji Village and experience harvesting yuzu and hand-squeezing the fresh fruit together with local farmers. An English-speaking guide will accompany you, allowing you not only to communicate with the farmers but also to fully immerse yourself in the beauty and charm of the Japanese countryside.