KYOTO - Kyoto’s prized bamboo shoots, a seasonal delicacy that graces dining tables each spring, are facing an unprecedented crisis this year. The culprit is the Chinese bamboo moth (Sinachiku nomeiga), whose larvae feed on bamboo leaves, weakening the plants and severely reducing harvest yields.
The damage has spread even to the scenic bamboo groves that attract tourists from around the world. In response, Kyoto Prefecture has authorized the emergency use of pesticides effective against the moth to curb further damage.
Ogawa Foods Industry, based in Nagaokakyo City, which handles the production and processing of Kyoto’s bamboo shoots, reports that this year’s harvest has fallen to roughly one-third of that in 2021. Kyoto’s bamboo shoots are known nationwide for their soft texture and pale white color, making them highly sought after by chefs across Japan.
The infestation first appeared in Aichi Prefecture about five years ago, likely introduced through imported bamboo carrying eggs or larvae. Since then, it has been confirmed in Kyoto, Hyogo, and Osaka. The larvae feed on bamboo leaves, weakening the plants and preventing new shoots from developing properly.
Drone footage taken in June and September revealed widespread damage, with once-vibrant green groves turning brown. Experts have identified not only the Chinese bamboo moth but also other species of moths originating from China, suggesting multiple infestations spreading throughout the region.
In Arashiyama, one of Kyoto’s most famous tourist areas, field surveys led by entomologist Yoshiyoshi confirmed similar damage patterns, with evidence of larvae feeding and droppings on bamboo leaves. According to researchers, Kyoto’s dense, contiguous bamboo forests and the lack of natural predators have accelerated the infestation’s spread.
Kyoto Prefecture has begun implementing emergency pest control using microbe-based pesticides, which authorities say have minimal impact on humans. The rapid response is seen as vital not only to protect Kyoto’s spring delicacy but also to preserve the city’s iconic bamboo landscapes that define its cultural heritage.
Source: KTV NEWS
