Shibata Shinnosuke
Bold, Modern Niigata Rice from Shibata City — Deep Flavor, Beautiful Grains
Shinnosuke is Niigata Prefecture’s flagship next-generation rice variety, developed over eight years to stand alongside—rather than replace—Koshihikari. Grown across Niigata, including Shibata City, Shinnosuke offers a completely different expression of Niigata rice: larger grains, deeper richness, and outstanding resilience when cooled.
In Shibata, especially the Kaji River region, farmers use abundant water resources and carefully selected organic fertilizers to produce Shinnosuke of exceptional quality, combining modern breeding with traditional agricultural discipline.
What Makes Shibata Shinnosuke Special
🌾 Large, Lustrous Grains
Shinnosuke is instantly recognizable:
It is a rice designed to look as good as it tastes.
🍚 Deep Sweetness & Umami-Rich Body
Unlike Koshihikari’s light elegance, Shinnosuke emphasizes:
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Refined sweetness that grows as you chew
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Pronounced richness and depth (“koku”)
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A satisfying, full-bodied flavor profile
This makes it especially appealing to those who want rice with character and substance.
💪 Elastic Texture with Clean Separation
The texture remains stable and enjoyable even after cooling.
❄️ Excellent When Cool
Shinnosuke was bred with modern eating habits in mind:
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Resists hardening after cooling
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Maintains sweetness and elasticity
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Ideal for bento, onigiri, and prepared meals
Shibata City & the Kaji River Advantage
Shibata City is one of Shinnosuke’s key production areas, supported by:
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Clean, mineral-balanced water from the Kaji River system
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Fertile soils enriched with organic fertilizers
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Experienced growers working with local JA guidance
These conditions allow Shinnosuke to fully express its rich flavor and structural integrity.
How Shinnosuke Differs from Koshihikari
|
Koshihikari |
Shinnosuke |
| Grain size |
Medium |
Large |
| Flavor |
Light, elegant sweetness |
Deep, rich sweetness |
| Texture |
Soft, cohesive |
Springy, resilient |
| Best use |
Traditional washoku |
Bento, hearty meals, modern cuisine |
Shinnosuke is often described as “Niigata’s second deliciousness”—a bold alternative rather than a variation.
Proven Quality & Recognition
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Developed from Niigata 75 × Hokuriku 190
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Commercial release began in 2017
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Awarded Special A (TokA) rating by the Japan Grain Inspection Association
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Strict production and inspection standards across Niigata
Ideal Uses
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Bento and onigiri
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Grilled meats and rich sauces
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Modern Japanese and Western dishes
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Anyone who prefers rice with presence and bite
Who This Rice Is For
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Fans of Koshihikari looking for something different
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Those who enjoy bold flavor and firm texture
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Customers who value performance after cooling
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Anyone curious about Niigata’s newest top-tier rice
Our Commitment to Trust
We carry Shibata Shinnosuke because it represents the future of Niigata rice:
carefully bred, rigorously controlled, and clearly distinct in character.
This is not simply “another Niigata rice”—it is a deliberate, modern expression of what premium Japanese rice can be.
If you want a rice with size, strength, and depth—without sacrificing refinement—Shinnosuke delivers.
Bold grains. Lasting flavor. Modern Niigata excellence.
