September 23rd, Nagano Grape Day in Japan

Today, and September 23rd annually, is Nagano Grape Day 長野県ぶどうの日 in Japan. The day was created by a Nagano branch of Japan Agriculture (JA). They created the commemoration to encourage more people to enjoy the delicious grapes grown in Nagano Prefecture. The date was chosen because September is one of the peak shipping periods for Nagano grapes and the numbers 2 and 3 can be read as "Fu (2) sa (3)" meaning a grape bunch. 

Nagano's climate and natural environment are well suited to grape cultivation, and the prefecture has a long history of producing high-quality fruit. Japan's first grape sanctuary is set to open in Nagano Prefecture, in Tomi City, this month. Local growers cultivate a wide range of varieties, including Shine Muscat, Kyoho, Delaware, Pione, Niagara, Rosario Bianco, and the prefecture's own Nagano Purple. 

Among these, Nagano Purple is particularly notable. Registered as a variety in 2004, it was developed in Nagano through the crossbreeding of Kyoho and Rizamat grapes. Its large dark berries, sweet flavor, seedless nature, and edible skin have helped make it a favorite among grape lovers.