Setouchi Lemon: The Citrus Gem of Hiroshima

When visiting the Setouchi area in Japan, what’s the first thing you think of? Beaches? Okonomiyaki? Hot springs? While these options may all be popular in this region, the first thing that comes to mind for many people is the Setouchi lemon. This is a type of modern lemon that was introduced to Japan in 1898 at Mitarai’s old trading port on Osaki Shimojima Island and is sweeter, juicier, and larger than you’re used to; it’s even known for a skin so tasty you can eat it! Now, Hiroshima Prefecture is the most famous growing area, where over 60% of it is produced! Today, we’ll go through multiple different ways that you can enjoy this delectable citrus!

Tasty Treats!

Hiroshima Lemon Nabe

This is a hot pot dish that features seasonal vegetables and a choice of meats like chicken or pork, topped with slices of the Setouchi lemon. This is not only a tasty meal, but it’s also very healthy! With high vitamin C content, they have a reputation for skin-beautifying benefits, which makes them popular among women!

Setouchi Lemon Pie

While this hugely flavorful pie is a popular treat among tourists in the Setouchi region, there’s another snack version that many people enjoy! The crunchy snack version can be found at various convenience stores. The pie dough uses the peel of the Setouchi lemons, so the flavor is kneaded right into it and then baked to make it nice and crunchy! If you have time to try both, see which one you prefer!

Setouchi Lemon Tonkotsu Ramen

Now, this may be a bit surprising to you, as it surprised me too! Although this may sound a bit intimidating to try, many people enjoy this unique take on tonkotsu ramen! This version of
lemon-infused ramen has a hint of some sweet and sour flavor from the lemon, a refreshing twist on a classic favorite tonkotsu ramen. It is available in both instant noodle packs and at various restaurants throughout the Setouchi region. Try it out, and it might become your new favorite flavor, too!

Kappa Ebisen Setouchi Lemon

Kappa Ebisen is a long-time famous and favorite snack of many Japanese people. It is a crunchy and salty shrimp snack that comes in a variety of flavors. This includes a Setouchi lemon flavor that is only available in the Chugoku and Shikoku regions!

Setouchi Lemon Sour

As a departure from just another normal snack, you have to try out this alcoholic beverage. This sour has a very refreshing taste that makes it perfect for a hot day! It also isn’t too sweet and successfully brings out the true taste of the Setouchi lemon.

SETOUCHI Craft Gin – Lemo

This is a unique blend that is unique to Miyake Honten, a sake brewery in Hiroshima. It is aimed to have a taste that is easy for everyone to enjoy, from both beginners and experienced drinkers. Infused with fresh Setouchi lemon and a touch of green tea, this gin is crisp and refreshing. The water used is from the Haigamine Underground Water, which has a distinctly smooth and mellow taste. It is available around Hiroshima, but can also be bought online at their official store for around 2,500 yen.

Everyday Items!

Setouchi lemons aren’t just for eating; they can be used in items like scents, skincare, and household products, too! Here are a couple of items that you don’t have to eat!

LuLuLun Setouchi Lemon Face Mask

First up, we have this face mask! Lululun is a very famous skincare brand among women in Japan. This face mask has some of the juice of the Setouchi lemon mixed into the formula and is said to help balance skin oil and promote elasticity.

Room & Fabric Mist Setouchi Lemon

This is a fabric mist that is infused with Setouchi lemon essential oil. It has a refreshing scent of the lemon and also has deodorizing and disinfecting capabilities. It can be sprayed everywhere, from clothes and fabrics to the surrounding air.

In conclusion, the Setouchi lemon shows Hiroshima’s and the rest of the Setouchi region’s agricultural excellence, offering not only great flavor but also showing the region’s creativity in inventing such interesting ways to eat it. Whether enjoyed fresh, savored in dishes like the nabe, or used in daily life like the room and fabric mist, this citrus gem continues to shine.

Featured Photo Credit:  Eramiya

Ready to try Setouchi lemon and other delicious foods from Hiroshima? Come join our Best of Hiroshima food tour, and experience all the mouth-watering options the city has to offer.