Its bananas - tropical fruit thriving in unexpected places

As I introduced on the 7th of last month (January), the 7th is "Dole Banana Activity Day". What I didn't mention in that post is that Japan actually grows bananas. They still import far, far more than they produce. Approximately one million tons of bananas a year, mostly from the Philippines. But there are banana farms in Japan too. 

Bananas are quietly grown in several regions across the country, creating a small yet fascinating niche within Japanese agriculture. Thanks to warm microclimates and innovative cultivation techniques, bananas can thrive in places like Kagoshima, Okinawa, Ehime, and even parts of Honshu where sheltered slopes and mild winters offer just enough protection. The photo in this post of banana plants in Higashimatsuyama, Saitama Prefecture!

Many of these plants are grown by hobbyists or small farms, adding a tropical touch to rural landscapes. But Japan has also become known for its premium domestic bananas, including varieties with exceptionally thin, edible peels. These are produced using specialized methods that encourage the fruit to develop a softer skin and a sweeter flavor. Because domestic production is limited, Japanese‑grown bananas are often sold individually, wrapped like luxury fruit, and marketed as a rare treat. Have you ever tried a Japan grown banana?