When you think of Japanese fruit, the strawberry is a true star. Among the many varieties, one name stands out for its incredible presence: the Amaou strawberry. This premium brand from Fukuoka Prefecture is famous throughout Japan. People love its large size, brilliant red color, and intensely sweet flavor.
This article is your complete guide to the king of strawberries. We will explore the basics of the Hakata Amaou, its unique history, and what makes it different from other popular varieties. We will also show you how to pick the best ones and introduce top Tokyo restaurants where you can taste this exceptional fruit.
What is the Hakata Amaou Strawberry?
The Amaou is a luxury strawberry brand grown exclusively in Fukuoka Prefecture, Japan. Its name is a clever acronym of four Japanese words: Akai (Red), Marui (Round), Okii (Large), and Umai (Delicious). These four words perfectly describe the fruit.
The berries are a vibrant, deep red. They are known for their cute, rounded shape. Each one is impressively large, with an average weight of over 20 grams. The biggest ones can even exceed 50 grams. The Amaou strawberry is also very sweet, with a sugar content (Brix level) of over 11 degrees. A gentle acidity balances this sweetness, creating a rich and memorable flavor. The peak season is from December to May, but they are sweetest during the cold months of January and February.
The Defining Features of the Amaou Strawberry
The Amaou is loved for its outstanding taste and appearance. Its most notable feature is its size. The berries are significantly larger than other varieties, making each one a satisfying treat. The skin is a glossy, brilliant red, and the flesh is also red all the way through. This beautiful look makes the Hakata Amaou a popular choice for gifts.
The texture is firm but not hard. Each bite delivers a burst of juice. The strawberry has a rich, sweet aroma that is delightful even before you taste it. Like all strawberries, the Amaou is also an excellent source of Vitamin C.
The History and Origin of the Amaou
The Amaou strawberry was not created overnight. Instead, it is the result of years of passionate work by developers in Fukuoka. The project officially began in 1996. At that time, the main local variety was “Toyonoka.” While tasty, the Toyonoka had some weaknesses — its color was often pale, and the berries could be quite small.
To address these issues, the Fukuoka Prefecture Agricultural Research Center set a clear goal: to create Japan’s number one strawberry. It had to be large, beautifully colored, and taste amazing. With this vision in mind, researchers started by crossbreeding two varieties, “Kurume 53” and “92-46.” Over the next six years, they carefully selected only the best plants from countless trials.
Eventually, their dedication paid off. They developed a new variety, “Fukuoka S6,” which excelled in every category. This was the strawberry that would later become the Amaou. A few years later, in 2003, the now-famous name was chosen through a public contest. Thanks to its catchy name and exceptional quality, the Amaou quickly became a nationwide sensation.
How Amaou Compares to Other Strawberries
Tochiotome
The Tochi otome strawberry is from Tochigi Prefecture and is the most widely produced variety in Japan. It is slightly smaller than the Amaou and has a classic cone shape. It has a great balance of sweetness and acidity. Its flavor is more refreshing and juicy, while the Amaou offers a deeper, richer sweetness. The flesh of the Tochi otome is also a bit softer.
Awayuki
The Awayuki is a “white strawberry” known for its pale, pinkish-white color. Unlike ordinary strawberries, it is a rare and beautiful fruit, often given as a luxury gift. In terms of flavor, it is very unique. Because it has almost no acidity, it offers a mild and gentle sweetness. Furthermore, many people notice a distinctive aroma, similar to that of a peach or coconut. Overall, its delicate taste provides a striking contrast to the bold, powerful flavor of the red Amaou strawberry.
Where Are the Best Amaou Strawberries From?
This question has a simple answer. To begin with, Amaou is a registered trademark. Its cultivation is exclusive to Fukuoka Prefecture. Therefore, every authentic Amaou strawberry is grown in Fukuoka. As a result, the brand’s quality is kept at a consistently high standard across the region. In particular, key growing areas include Yame, Chikugo, and Okawa.
To find the best Amaou, look for these signs:
- The green caps (calyx) should be fresh and pointing up.
- The skin should be glossy and uniformly deep red.
- The berry should feel firm and heavy for its size. This indicates it is full of juice.
3 Top Tokyo Restaurants to Enjoy Amaou Strawberries
During peak season, many Tokyo restaurants and cafes feature desserts made with fresh Amaou. Here are three exceptional places to try them.
Hotel New Otani Tokyo “Garden Lounge”
The “Super Sweets Buffet” at this hotel is a legendary event for dessert lovers. During strawberry season, the buffet becomes a paradise of Amaou creations. You can enjoy everything from the famous “Super Amaou Shortcake” to tarts, pies, and jellies. You can even sample and compare fresh Amaou berries. It is a luxurious experience in an elegant setting overlooking a traditional Japanese garden.
Shiseido Parlour Ginza Salon de Café
This historic parlour, founded in 1902, is famous for its artistic fruit parfaits. The “Special Amaou Strawberry Parfait,” available only in season, is a true work of art. It features perfectly placed, large Amaou berries, homemade strawberry sorbet, rich vanilla ice cream, and traditional sauces. Served in the elegant atmosphere of Ginza, it is a perfectly balanced masterpiece.
The Strings by InterContinental Tokyo “Melodia”
Located on the 26th floor with stunning city views, this restaurant offers a sophisticated escape. Its seasonal parfaits and afternoon teas are always popular. During the Amaou season, the chefs create stylish desserts that highlight the strawberry’s brilliant red color. The parfaits are made with layers of complementary ingredients, offering new flavors with every spoonful. It is the perfect place to enjoy seasonal tastes in a chic, modern setting.
Conclusion
The Hakata Amaou is a strawberry born from the passion and pride of Fukuoka Prefecture. In fact, its charm is perfectly captured by its name: Red, Round, Large, and Delicious. Moreover, this exceptional fruit is the result of years of dedicated research. Its powerful yet delicate sweetness truly sets it apart from all other strawberries. Whether you enjoy it on its own or as part of an elegant dessert, the experience is always delightful. Ultimately, we invite you to discover the unforgettable taste of the Amaou strawberry — the true king of fruits.
FAQ
What is Amaou?
Amaou is a premium strawberry variety from Fukuoka Prefecture, known for its large size, bright red color, and rich sweetness.
What does “Amaou” mean?
(akai = red), MA (marui = round), O (ookii = big), and U (umai = delicious).
Where is Amaou grown?
Mainly in Fukuoka, on Japan’s Kyushu Island, under carefully controlled greenhouse conditions.
When is Amaou in season?
From December to May, with the sweetest fruits usually available between January and March.
How does Amaou taste?
It has a perfect balance of sweetness and acidity, with a juicy and dense texture.
Where can I buy Amaou strawberries?
You can find them at department store food halls, supermarkets, and strawberry farms in Fukuoka and across Japan.
Can tourists try strawberry picking?
Yes! Many farms in Fukuoka offer Amaou strawberry picking experiences during the season.
Are Amaou strawberries expensive?
Yes, they are a luxury fruit in Japan and often sold in gift boxes, especially during the New Year season.
How should I eat Amaou strawberries?
They’re best eaten fresh, but also delicious with condensed milk, on cakes, or in parfaits.
Can I bring Amaou strawberries home as a souvenir?
They are delicate and perishable, so it’s best to enjoy them in Japan or buy preserved Amaou sweets instead.
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