“Ichidagaki” is a type of an astringent persimmon originated from Ichida, a place in Takamori town of Shimoina District. It is said that the history of farming these persimmons goes back over 500 years and the dried ones are also called Ichidagaki. Dried persimmons are vibrant candy colour coated in very fine white powder, with its subtle sweetness and unique texture make them very easy to eat bite sized snacks. They are dried fruits with natural sweetness also classified as fine desserts.
When the fruits contain lots of water, they are sundried. “Kaki Momi” is an important task using a method of rolling the persimmons to massage them and push the water out from the center, produce smooth dried persimmons without creases and create fine powders coating them.
Ichidagaki is sold all over Japan. Japan has the largest production of dried persimmons. It’s very popular throughout the country for its sweet taste. It is also a custom in the country to eat Ichidagaki in the morning on New Year’s day as good luck charms. This is called ‘Hagatame’.