The case of Nagano, Japanese cider industry promotion from an orchard

In the field of cider research and promotion, the orchard in Nagano Prefecture, Japan, is like an “open-air” laboratory. Some producers are entering a new era with their apple trees by using their orchards to produce cider. Seven years ago, when this movement was beginning in this region, cider was an unknown drink. It has attracted attention as a means to add value to apple resources. This point of view still exists, however, some producers prefer to have their own cider brand. They are trying to improve the quality and diversity of cider, using their annual apple harvest to produce their own cider. To share their results on regional development, cooperation with research institutions is important.