How Many Calories Does a Japanese Cucumber Have?

December 15, 2025 •

3 min read

With only 10 to 15 calories per 100g, a Japanese cucumber is an exceptionally low-calorie food, primarily composed of water. This makes the Japanese cucumber, also known as kyuri, an excellent, hydrating addition to any health-conscious diet plan.

Quick Summary

Japanese cucumbers, or kyuri, are very low in calories, containing just 10-15 calories per 100g serving, making them a hydrating and nutrient-rich snack ideal for a balanced diet.

Key Points

Low-Calorie Count: A 100g serving of Japanese cucumber contains a very low amount of calories, typically 10-15 kcal.
Excellent for Hydration: Composed of approximately 95% water, kyuri is a great food for staying hydrated, especially in warmer weather.
Rich in Nutrients: Japanese cucumbers are a good source of essential vitamins, including K and C, as well as important minerals like potassium and magnesium.
Minimal Seeds and Thin Skin: Unlike many other cucumber varieties, the kyuri's thin, smooth skin and underdeveloped seeds mean it doesn't need to be peeled.
Supports Digestive Health: The combination of high water and fiber content aids in proper digestion and helps to prevent constipation.
Mild, Refreshing Flavor: With lower levels of bitter compounds (cucurbitacins), Japanese cucumbers have a sweeter, more pleasant taste, perfect for eating raw.

Understanding the Japanese Cucumber Nutritional Profile

Japanese cucumbers, known as kyuri, are a variety of cucumber popular for their thin skin, crisp texture, and mild flavor. As a member of the squash family, these elongated, dark-green vegetables offer nutritional benefits without a high-calorie count. Their high water content is a key reason for their low-calorie density. A 100-gram serving typically contains just 10 to 15 calories.

A Closer Look at the Calorie Count

The minimal calories in a Japanese cucumber come from its carbohydrates, with very little fat. Primarily composed of water, kyuri is excellent for hydration and an ideal food for those watching their weight or seeking a refreshing snack. This low-calorie, high-water profile allows for consuming a significant portion to feel full, making it a staple in healthy Japanese cooking.

Other Nutritional Benefits

Beyond being low in calories and high in water, Japanese cucumbers provide essential nutrients. They are a source of vitamins like Vitamin K and Vitamin C, which support blood clotting, bone health, and the immune system. Key minerals include potassium for blood pressure regulation and magnesium for muscle and nerve function. Kyuri also contains antioxidants that protect cells and fiber and water that aid digestive health.

Japanese vs. English vs. Standard Cucumbers: A Comparison

All cucumbers are low in calories and high in water, but Japanese cucumbers stand out with their thin skin and mild flavor, making them great for eating raw without peeling.


Feature	Japanese Cucumber (Kyuri)	English Cucumber	Standard Cucumber (Slicing)
Appearance	Long, slender, and uniformly dark green.	Long, straight, wrapped in plastic, with thinner skin than standard variety.	Shorter, thicker, with a waxy, thick skin.
Skin	Very thin, edible, and un-waxy. Requires no peeling.	Thin, edible, and typically unwaxed. Peeling is optional.	Thick and often waxed. Best to peel before eating.
Seeds	Very few, small, and underdeveloped.	Seedless or very few, small seeds.	Larger and more noticeable seeds.
Flavor	Mild, slightly sweet, and non-bitter, often described as melon-like.	Mild and slightly sweet with a crisp bite.	Stronger, more earthy flavor that can sometimes be bitter.
Texture	Very crisp and crunchy.	Crisp, but can be slightly softer than Japanese varieties.	Firmer flesh, but less crisp than Japanese or English types.

Versatile Uses in Your Kitchen

Japanese cucumbers are versatile in both raw and cooked applications due to their crisp texture and mild taste.

Salads: Slice for sunomono (cucumber salad) or add to green salads.
Sushi: Their seedless nature and crispness make them suitable for sushi rolls.
Pickles: Popular for quick salt-pickling methods like shiozuke.
Snacks: Enjoy sliced with seasonings like salt or shichimi.
Garnish and Infusions: Use slices in cocktails or infused water.

The Verdict on How Many Calories Does a Japanese Cucumber Have

In summary, Japanese cucumbers are very low in calories, with only 10-15 calories per 100 grams, making them highly hydrating and a great addition to a healthy diet. They offer vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, and their mild flavor and thin skin make them ideal for raw dishes. Compared to other varieties, kyuri's taste and texture are often preferred for fresh consumption. Whether for weight management or adding nutrients, Japanese cucumbers are a beneficial choice.

For more detailed information on the general nutritional benefits of cucumbers, you can refer to WebMD's article on cucumber health benefits.

Frequently Asked Questions

The calorie count of a whole Japanese cucumber depends on its size. Since a 100g serving contains around 10-15 calories and they are typically long and slender, a medium-sized kyuri weighing around 150-200g would contain approximately 15-30 calories.

Both Japanese and regular cucumbers are very healthy and low in calories. Japanese cucumbers tend to have a milder, less bitter flavor and thinner skin than many standard varieties, making them more palatable for eating raw without peeling. Nutritionally, they are comparable, both excellent for hydration.

No, you do not need to peel a Japanese cucumber. Its skin is thin, smooth, and perfectly edible. In fact, keeping the skin on provides extra fiber and nutrients like vitamin K.

Yes, Japanese cucumbers are excellent for weight loss. They are extremely low in calories and high in water, which helps you feel full without consuming many calories. They make for a great, healthy snack or addition to meals.

While both have thin skin and few seeds, English cucumbers are generally thicker and longer than Japanese kyuri. Japanese cucumbers are known for their distinctively crisp and snappy texture and a slightly sweeter, more melon-like flavor.

Yes, Japanese cucumbers are often used for pickling in Japanese cuisine. Traditional methods like shiozuke, a simple salt-pickling technique, are very popular. Their firm, crisp texture holds up well to the pickling process.

For maximum freshness, store Japanese cucumbers in the crisper drawer of your refrigerator. To extend their life, you can wrap them individually in paper towels and place them in a plastic bag before refrigerating.