From the sea to 2000m high mountains, Tsuruoka's natural landscape offers a wide range of temperatures. This region is blessed with diverse and bountiful produce as the plentiful snowfall and accumulated biomass from the surrounding vegetation create the optimal environment for the growth of mountain vegetables. Kogomi (Ostrich fern) is gathered in spring. It can be enjoyed as tempura, in soup, or boiling without having the need to remove the astringent taste. Kogomi can be preserved for a long time by sun drying.