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What is a Buntan? We will explain the different types of Tosa Buntan, a specialty of Kochi, and the best ways to eat them.

Hello, this is Okada Shoten.

This time, we will explain about pomelo.

"Pomelo" is a specialty of Kochi Prefecture, but there are several varieties and I don't know which one is the tastiest! I want to give it as a gift, but I don't know which one to send!

I'm sure there are people like you, so today I'll explain the different types in detail.

What kind of food is pomelo ?

It is a type of citrus fruit and is sometimes called pomelo.

It is believed to be native to Southeast Asia, and in Japan it is mainly cultivated in Kyushu, Shikoku, and Kochi Prefecture.

It is larger than other citrus fruits. It can reach a diameter of up to 15cm.

The skin is thick and must be peeled to access the flesh.

The skin is yellow and somewhat rough to the touch.

Tosa Buntan is a type of citrus fruit that is representative of Kochi Prefecture.

The types of pomelo harvested in Kochi Prefecture vary depending on the season.

It can be broadly divided into two categories: There are ones called " Tosa Buntan " and " Crystal Buntan ."

Now, I will explain the differences between the two.

What is the difference between Tosa Buntan and Suisho Buntan?

What is Tosa Buntan?

This pomelo is grown in Kochi Prefecture (formerly Tosa Province) and is generally grown outdoors.

* Open field means growing outdoors.

It is larger than regular pomelo, has a slightly thicker skin, and is characterized by its yellow appearance.

What is Crystal Buntan?

This fruit is also grown in Kochi Prefecture, but Suisho Buntan is specifically grown in greenhouses.

The "crystal" in the name comes from the fruit's greater transparency, shine and superior quality.

It is sweeter than regular pomelo and has a milder flavor with less sourness.


Because they are grown in greenhouses, they are more expensive than Tosa Buntans and are often treated as a luxury item.

Recommended as a gift.

How do you eat pomelo? Recommended ways to eat it.

It is common to eat pomelo raw,

Sprinkling salt on the pomelo will bring out its flavor even more.

The pomelo itself has a refreshing taste with a balanced sweetness and sourness, but adding a small amount of salt to it further accentuates its sweetness.

Salt sharpens the palate, making it easier to taste sweetness.

Also, although pomelo is a citrus fruit with a strong sour taste, adding salt helps to soften the sourness and make the overall flavor more mellow.

Also, while it is generally thought that only the flesh is eaten, the skin is sometimes used to make marmalade and jam.

Make use of both the fruit and the skin and enjoy eating it!

Okada Shoten has a wide variety of pomelo.

You can purchase them separately for home use and as gifts.

We look forward to your patronage.

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