“20th Century Asian Pears” produced in Tottori Prefecture. Now on Sale in California.

Governor Hirai promotes the Asian Pear’s delicious taste in LA

Tottori’s Famous “20th Century (Nijisseiki) Asian Pears” Now Available in California’s Tokyo Central Stores!

As of October, the famous “20th Century (Nijisseiki) Asian Pears” from Tottori Prefecture is now available at approximately 10 Tokyo Central stores across California. On October 14th, a promotional event was held at Tokyo Central Gardena to celebrate the launch. In-store tastings, Asian Pears sales, and the distribution of novelty goods were offered to customers. Tottori Governor Shinji Hirai and Hiroaki Ozaki, Director of JA Zen-Noh Tottori, attended the event, promoting the Asian Pears and the region’s charm while dressed in traditional bright green happi coats.

This year marks the 120th anniversary of 20th Century Asian Pears cultivation in Tottori Prefecture. Though other regions in Japan also began growing the Asian Pears in the early 1900s, many had to cease due to disease outbreaks. Tottori, however, successfully overcame these challenges through careful cultivation methods such as bagging the fruit for disease prevention and quality improvement, making it the leading producer of 20th Century Asian Pears in Japan. The first export to the U.S. began in Hawaii in 1969, followed by Alaska in 1979, and the U.S. mainland in 1984. While exports had decreased in recent years, a partnership with Pan Pacific International Holdings and support from JA ZEN-NOH International have revitalized efforts to expand exports.

“The 20th Century Asian Pears may be a 120-year-old variety, but its glossy, pale green skin, balanced sweet-tart flavor, and crisp texture continue to attract both loyal fans and new, younger audiences. There’s a sense that a second wave of popularity is coming,” said Governor Hirai. “Tottori Prefecture is not only home to scenic beauty, like its famous sand dunes, but also a paradise of delicious foods—Asian Pears, crabs, wagyu beef, and sake. We would love for people in the U.S. to experience these flavors and visit us in Tottori.”

Governor Hirai humorously promoted the 20th Century Asian Pears, saying, “Since ‘pear’ in English is pronounced the same as ‘pair,’ I hope we can work together as a pair with the people of America to spread the deliciousness of 20th Century Asian Pears.”

Ozaki, General Manager of JA Zennoh Tottori Headquarters.

<Quick facts by Google>
Tottori is a coastal prefecture in southern Honshu, Japan’s main island. To the east lie the Tottori Sand Dunes, the largest sand hills in Japan. The nearby Sand Museum displays elaborate sand sculptures. In the capital, also called Tottori, is the French Renaissance–style mansion of Jinpūkaku and the cherry trees of Kyusho Park. Midway up Mt. Kyusho, the Tottori Castle Ruins offer panoramic views over the city.