Diego Fernando Quint… · CC BY 3.0La Colmena Fruit Fair
Grapes, melons, watermelons and plums in the town founded by Japanese immigrants, with a fruit auction and Nikkei cooking.
What it is
La Colmena, founded in 1936 by Paraguay’s first Japanese families, is famous for its fruit. In December, more than fifty vendors fill Plaza 14 de Mayo with grapes, melons, watermelons, plums and honey, as well as Paraguayan-Japanese dishes, plant nurseries and crafts. On Saturday there’s an arts festival, and on Sunday the traditional fruit and vegetable auction; more than 10,000 visitors are expected. In 2026 the town celebrates 90 years of Japanese immigration.
What to see and do
- Traditional fruit auction
- Seasonal grapes and melons
- Paraguayan-Japanese cooking
Tips
La Colmena is about 130 km from Asunción. There are few guesthouses: book early or make it a day trip. Bring cash.
Dates may shift to the nearest weekend.
What to see
La Colmena (compañía Isla Alta, límite con Borja, Guairá) · Paraguarí
Salto Cristal
A curtain of crystal-clear water over rock walls, hidden in the forest between Paraguarí and Guairá.
La Colmena · Paraguarí
La Colmena
Birthplace of Japanese immigration to Paraguay: orchards, apiaries and a hill nicknamed 'Colmena Fuji'.
Festivals and events here
Researched and reviewed in September 2026 with 3 sources. A second reviewer checked dates, coordinates and lodging. Hours and prices may change.