Ehime prefecture is known across Japan for its production of mikan. Also known as mandarin oranges, Ehime grows over 40 varieties of this beloved citrus fruit. One of these is the unshu mikan, a type of mandarin orange that has few seeds and is easy to peel. The picturesque town of Yawatahama produces the most unshu mikan in the prefecture. Its unique terrace-like mikan farms on the mountain side have been recognized as a Japan Agricultural Heritage Site.

You will enjoy the fragrant air of citrus fruit while harvesting mikan in one of the female-lead mikan farms in Yawatahama. There are farms all across the town, and each one is locally owned and operated. The farmer will instruct you on how to pick the mikan properly, and how to tell which ones are ripe and sweet. Spending time outside, exploring the mikan farm in the fresh mountain air will leave you feeling invigorated, and hungry for the sweet citrus fruit.

After collecting a basketful of fresh mikan, you’ll squeeze out the juice for a refreshing drink. The freshly pressed sweet and slightly tart juice is unlike anything available in stores!

Then, you’ll be transported with your harvest of mikan to a marmalade-making facility. Before you start making the marmalade, you’ll enjoy a bento (Japanese lunch box) featuring recipes that use and highlight mikan. This delicious and visually pleasing lunch features the local ingredients of the area.

Yawatahama is the host of the world marmalade-making competition, so the locals here are experts! Create your own world-class marmalade from your freshly harvested mikan with step-by-step instructions from the local farmer. Then, design an original label for your marmalade!

You will also get to sample the marmalade made by the locals. Try different types of gold-star-winning marmalades with bread. To wrap up, you’ll be taken to a “michi no eki”, a store featuring locally made products and produce, and have time to shop for souvenirs.