Abstract
Sorghum cultivation in Japan has shown steady development, with a 2022 national harvest volume reaching a peak of 501,000 tons. The total planting area nationwide also saw a maximum of 12,000 hectares in the same year, indicating a focus on optimizing land use for this resilient crop. Miyazaki Prefecture stands out for its productivity, achieving the highest yield per 10 ares at 5.25 tons, reflecting advanced agricultural practices and favorable conditions. Past trends suggest a gradual increase in yield efficiency, driven by improved cultivation techniques and targeted regional efforts. Sorghum’s adaptability to diverse climates underscores its growing importance in Japan’s agricultural portfolio.
Sorghum harvest yield (main data).
Sorghum harvest yields in Japan have experienced significant fluctuations, peaking at 2.55 million tons in 1983. Since then, yields have declined steadily, with the 2022 figures representing just 19.7% of the peak. This drop reflects shifts in agricultural priorities, competition from other crops, and declining demand. Despite its resilience to adverse conditions, sorghum’s role has diminished due to urbanization and reduced farmland. However, recent trends indicate a renewed interest in sorghum as a sustainable crop for feed and biofuel, supported by its adaptability and low water requirements. These characteristics may help reinvigorate production amid modern environmental challenges.
The maximum is 2.55Mt[1983] of Japan, and the current value is about 19.7%
Sorghum harvest volume (by prefecture).
In 2022, Miyazaki Prefecture led Japan in sorghum production, with a harvest of 126,000 tons, marking the highest yield nationwide. This highlights Miyazaki’s favorable conditions and advanced agricultural practices, making it a key player in sorghum cultivation. Overall, sorghum yields in Japan reflect regional disparities, shaped by differences in climate, soil quality, and farming techniques. While national production has declined significantly from its 1983 peak, prefectures like Miyazaki demonstrate the crop’s potential for high yields. Recent trends suggest a growing interest in sorghum for its versatility in feed and biofuel applications, reinforcing its role in sustainable agriculture.
The maximum is 126kt of Miyazaki, the average is 25.4kt, and the total is 431kt
Sorghum cultivated area (main data).
The area of land cultivated with sorghum in Japan has seen a significant reduction since its peak in 1982, when it reached 37,500 hectares. As of 2022, the cultivated area stands at just 32% of that peak, reflecting broader trends of declining farmland and shifting agricultural priorities. Sorghum’s adaptability and resilience to harsh conditions made it a staple in earlier decades, but competition from other crops and changing economic factors have led to its reduced cultivation. Despite this, renewed interest in sustainable farming and sorghum’s potential for biofuel and livestock feed could help stabilize or increase its planting area in the future.
The maximum is 37.5kha[1982] of Japan, and the current value is about 32%
Sorghum cultivated area (by prefecture).
As of 2022, Miyazaki Prefecture leads Japan in sorghum cultivation area, with 2,400 hectares, highlighting its role as a key production hub. This reflects Miyazaki’s favorable climate, soil conditions, and efficient farming practices, which support the crop’s growth. Nationally, sorghum cultivation has declined over the decades, with the current total area significantly below its 1982 peak of 37,500 hectares. The shift away from sorghum is linked to reduced farmland and evolving agricultural priorities. However, Miyazaki’s consistent focus on sorghum underscores its potential as a sustainable crop for feed and biofuel, aligning with modern agricultural trends.
The maximum is 2.4kha of Miyazaki, the average is 581ha, and the total is 9.87kha
Sorghum yield per 10a (by prefecture).
In 2022, Miyazaki Prefecture achieved the highest sorghum yield per 10 ares in Japan, at 5.25 tons, significantly exceeding the national average of 3.63 tons. This highlights Miyazaki’s advanced cultivation techniques and optimal growing conditions. Nationally, the total yield per 10 ares was 61.8 tons, reflecting regional disparities in productivity influenced by differences in climate, soil quality, and farming practices. While sorghum remains a versatile and resilient crop, overall yield trends have been shaped by shifts in agricultural priorities and land use. Miyazaki’s performance demonstrates the potential for high productivity with targeted efforts, supporting sorghum’s relevance in sustainable agriculture.
The maximum is 5.25t of Miyazaki, the average is 3.63t, and the total is 61.8t
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