TOKYO GROWN | Agriculture, forestry and fisheries general site in Tokyo

Characteristics of Naito Chili Pepper: The land that is now the Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden was formerly the location of the suburban residence of the Naito family, who were the daimyo (feudal lords) of Takato Domain (what is today Ina City, Nagano Prefecture). The area was richly cultivated with chili peppers—so much so that it is said that the fields would turn completely red during the harvest season from late autumn to early winter. The cultivar grown was the large Yatsubusa chili pepper, which was used as a familiar condiment for such foods as soba (buckwheat) noodles by the natives of Edo (the old name of Tokyo). Cultivation ceased for a while, but when it became possible for designated farmers to grow/produce it, the Naito chili pepper was certified as an Edo-Tokyo Veggie in 2013. Shinjuku Ward, which is the home of the Naito chili pepper, is making efforts to spread it, including growing it at schools and holding exhibition and sales events.

Name	Naito Chili Pepper

Naito Chili Pepper