The most expensive mushroom sold in Japan
Matsutake mushrooms (Pine mushrooms) are one of the Japan's most representative autumn mushrooms and are considered a luxury food. They are highly valued for their unique aroma and flavor. Matsutake mushrooms grow only in pine forests because this mushroom is symbiotic with pine roots. So, we cannot grow Matsutake artificially like other mushroom such as Shiitake mushrooms. Recently almost no Matsutakes have been harvested in Japan except in certain area. This resulted in very expensive price in a market. In fact, almost all matsutake mushrooms sold in supermarkets in my area are imported ones. Incidentally, I went to Kongorinji Temple in Aisho Town, Shiga Prefecture again to see the autumn leaves, and on my way back, I saw these Matsutake mushrooms for sale at a temporary shop in front of the parking lot. They had a wonderful aroma. When I asked where the origin of this is, I was told these Matsutake mushrooms were harvested at Jilin Province, China, near the border between North...
