Ehime Mikan — Citrus Capital of Japan

Ehime Prefecture produces 20% of Japan's mikan (mandarin oranges), making citrus the region's defining agricultural product. The mild Setouchi climate, well-drained hillside orchards, and abundant sunshine create ideal growing conditions. Mikan harvest season runs October–March, when orchards offer all-you-eat picking experiences, fresh-squeezed juice stands appear everywhere, and citrus-flavored products flood shops.

Ehime grows over 40 citrus varieties beyond common mikan, including iyokan, ponkan, dekopon, and the premium Kara mikan (¥1,000+ per fruit).