People’s preferences for Japanese sweet potatoes ... the root vegetable are capturing the attention of many. A sweet potato festival opened in Todoroki Ryokuchi Park in Kawasaki, Kanagawa ...

Japan exported 6,200 tons of sweet potato in 2023, agriculture ministry statistics showed. The shipment value rose nearly tenfold to 2.9 billion yen ($19.1 million) over the last decade.

Two halved sweet potatoes, reminiscent of a sweet potato crème brûlée, with caramelized tops rest on a white plate. A spoon pierces one, revealing its smooth, creamy texture.