A Cabbage for 1,000 Yen? Japan’s Leafy Vegetable Prices Surge to Around RMB 42

Leafy vegetable prices in Japan have climbed sharply, with a whole Chinese cabbage commonly selling for more than 1,000 yen, equivalent to approximately RMB 42.3. The increase has sparked widespread discussion on Japanese social media, as shoppers complain about rising grocery bills and some opt to buy only a quarter or an eighth of a cabbage.

According to a Xinhua report published on October 13, 2026, prices of leafy vegetables, including Chinese cabbage, lettuce and round cabbage, have risen substantially in recent weeks.

Data from Japan’s Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries showed that, as of October 10, prices for 11 of the 15 vegetable varieties monitored at Tokyo’s central wholesale market were above their average levels over the previous five years.

Cabbage Prices Nearly Double, While Lettuce Costs More

In supermarkets across Tokyo, Fukuoka and Ishikawa, a whole Chinese cabbage was commonly priced above 1,000 yen, or around RMB 42.3. A head of lettuce cost approximately 500 yen, equivalent to about RMB 21.2.

Compared with historical levels, prices for Chinese cabbage and round cabbage were roughly twice as high, while lettuce prices were approximately 2.5 times their usual levels.

The increases have made routine grocery shopping more expensive for households. Some Japanese consumers said online that they were surprised by the prices displayed in supermarkets. Rather than purchasing a whole cabbage, some shoppers have chosen quarter or eighth portions to reduce costs and avoid waste.

Bean sprouts have also attracted attention as a lower-cost alternative to leafy vegetables. The online discussion illustrates how rising food prices can influence everyday shopping habits and household budgets.

Persistent Rain and Limited Sunshine Reduce Supply

Industry observers have attributed the surge partly to unfavorable weather. Persistent rainfall and insufficient sunshine in several parts of Japan have affected the growth and harvesting of leafy vegetables, reducing available supplies and pushing prices higher.

Leafy vegetables are particularly sensitive to weather conditions. Extended periods of rain can complicate fieldwork and harvesting, while insufficient sunlight can slow crop development. When supply declines while demand remains steady, retail prices can rise rapidly.

Industry assessments suggest that prices may remain elevated in the short term. However, the timing of any decline will depend on weather conditions, the recovery of production in growing regions, transportation costs and adjustments by retailers.

Rising Food Costs Put Pressure on Restaurants

Higher vegetable prices are also creating challenges for restaurants and other food businesses. Leafy vegetables are common ingredients in many dishes, and rising procurement costs can squeeze profit margins when businesses cannot fully pass the increases on to customers.

The vegetable price surge comes amid broader food-price pressures in Japan. A recent survey indicated that more than 3,000 food products were scheduled for price increases in October, while approximately 20,000 products could see increases over the course of 2026.

Food affordability has consequently become an important concern for consumers and businesses across the country.

Price Outlook Depends on Supply Recovery

The price of a single cabbage exceeding 1,000 yen highlights the recent tightening of leafy vegetable supplies and the pressure that higher food costs can place on household spending. However, prices for one category of produce alone cannot fully describe the overall inflation picture.

Consumers may manage costs by purchasing smaller quantities or choosing alternative ingredients. Retailers and restaurants, meanwhile, must balance rising procurement expenses with affordability and stable business operations.

Whether Japan’s leafy vegetable prices will ease in the coming weeks remains uncertain. Further changes in weather, harvest volumes and market supply will be key factors to watch.

Sources:Xinhua, China Central Television Finance and Japanese media reports published on October 13–14, 2026.