20th Century Pear Curry is a distinctive retort-pack curry that combines the familiar comfort of Japanese curry with the refreshing sweetness and texture of Tottori’s famous 20th Century pears. It is made with pears grown at Sankoen, a historic pear orchard near the Tottori Sand Dunes that has been cultivating 20th Century pears since its founding in 1904.
One of the oldest established pear orchards in Tottori, Sankoen grows more than 10 varieties of pears, each with a different harvest season. Its trees produce abundant, juicy fruit, and the orchard is a popular destination for pear picking from late July to mid-November.
The curry brings the orchard’s homegrown pears into a savory dish, creating a fruit-based curry with a light consistency and a gently sweet, refreshing flavor. Generous amounts of pears give it a distinctive texture, while their natural fruitiness adds a pleasant sweetness that sets it apart from conventional Japanese curry.
The recipe is inspired by the popular curry served at Sankoen Sakyū Store, located near the Tottori Sand Dunes. This convenient retort-pack version allows visitors to enjoy the specialty at home, long after their trip to the region.
With its mild, sweet, and fruity character, 20th Century Pear Curry pairs particularly well with bread. It can also be served over vegetables for a simple meal with a distinctive local twist. Its approachable flavor makes it a good choice for people who prefer milder curry rather than strongly spiced varieties.
Because it comes in a retort pouch, the curry is easy to store and prepare whenever you want a quick meal. It is also an appealing souvenir for travelers who want to take home a taste of Tottori’s renowned pear-growing culture.
By combining locally grown fruit with a popular Japanese comfort food, 20th Century Pear Curry showcases an inventive side of Tottori’s food culture. Whether enjoyed with bread, rice, or vegetables, it offers a memorable way to experience the region’s famous pears beyond the harvest season.