Tokyo Prefecture has developed a new blueberry variety, "Fusatori," which has become the top harvested blueberry in Japan. The new variety allows for easy harvesting, reducing the burden on farmers. The Tokyo Metropolitan Government's Agriculture and Forestry Department has been promoting the development of new blueberry varieties since 2014. They aimed to create a variety that could be harvested all at once, reducing the labor required for harvesting. The department has developed the "Fusatori" blueberry, which has large clusters of berries that can be harvested by simply cutting the stem. This method eliminates the need for individual berry picking, significantly reducing the workload for farmers. The "Fusatori" blueberry has gained popularity among farmers and consumers, contributing to the increase in blueberry production in Tokyo. In 2022, Tokyo Prefecture produced 383 tons of blueberries, accounting for 35.5% of Japan's total production. The Tokyo Metropolitan Government plans to continue promoting the "Fusatori" blueberry and other new varieties to support the growth of the blueberry industry in Tokyo. The government also aims to increase the consumption of blueberries, which are rich in antioxidants and have health benefits. By developing new varieties and improving production efficiency, Tokyo Prefecture aims to maintain its position as the top blueberry-producing region in Japan.
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