Iyokan facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Iyokan |
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Citrus × iyo
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The iyokan (伊予柑 - Citrus × iyo) is a special Japanese citrus fruit. It looks a lot like a mandarin orange. People also call it anadomikan or Gokaku no Iyokan. This fruit was created by crossing two other citrus types: the Dancy tangerine and another mandarin called kaikoukan. In Japan, the iyokan is the second most popular citrus fruit, right after the satsuma mandarin.
Iyokan was first found in Yamaguchi Prefecture during the Meiji era in Japan. The Meiji era was a time of big changes in Japan, from 1868 to 1912. Today, most iyokan fruits grow in Ehime Prefecture. The fruit gets its name from Ehime Prefecture, which used to be called "Iyo-no-kuni" (meaning "Iyo Country").
What is an Iyokan?
The skin of an iyokan is thicker than a mikan (another type of mandarin), but you can still peel it easily by hand. The skin is very shiny and has a bright orange color. Once you peel it, the fruit inside has a very strong and pleasant smell.
When you taste an iyokan, you'll notice it's a bit sour and a little more bitter than a regular orange. However, it's usually sweeter than a grapefruit.
Special Iyokan Shapes
Sometimes, iyokan fruits are grown in a special pentagon shape. A pentagon is a shape with five straight sides. These unique pentagon-shaped iyokan are meant to bring good luck. They also help make the fruit more popular. This special version is sometimes called Gokaku no Iyokan, which means "Pentagonal Iyokan."
Iyokan in Japanese Culture
In Japan, iyokan is more than just a fruit. It's sometimes used in fish feed to help hide the fishy smell.
You might also see iyokan during springtime as a special KitKat candy flavor. These KitKats often have "good luck" messages on their wrappers for students taking exams. This is because the name "iyokan" sounds a lot like the Japanese phrase for "good feeling." This makes it a popular symbol of good luck and positive vibes!
