Fukushima is one of the most fertile fruit-growing areas in Japan, producing peaches, pears, apples, and grapes in various parts of the prefecture. In an effort to revitalize agriculture and tourism, the town of Hirono is cultivating bananas and other tropical fruits as new local specialties. Of course, tropical fruits are hard to produce in northern climates. But this project successfully cultivated the Gros Michel species by applying a new technology called the “freeze-thaw awakening method,” which helps the fruit acclimatize to colder temperatures. The tasty result, nicknamed “Kirei” (beautiful), is organically grown without any pesticides, and is characterized by its high sugar content, and creamy, rich flavor. It is rich in various polyphenols and essential amino acids, which are great for improving health, and is also rich in B vitamins, which are essential for energy metabolism. Even the peel, a particularly nutritious part, can be eaten. Visitors can tour the 800-square-meter banana cultivation facilities (the horticultural greenhouses) and purchase the bananas on weekends.