Yubari King

The Yubari King is a highly prized and exclusive type of cantaloupe melon cultivated in Yubari, Hokkaido, Japan. Known for its perfect round shape, smooth skin, and unparalleled sweetness, it is considered a luxury fruit often given as a gift or used for special occasions.

Half cut of Yubari melon

Yubari melons in the cardboard box

History

The Yubari King was first cultivated in the 1960s in the city of Yubari, Hokkaido. It is a hybrid of two other cantaloupe varieties, the Earl's Favourite and Burpee's "Spicy" Cantaloupe. The melon was named after its place of origin and has since become a symbol of status and wealth in Japan.

Cultivation

Cultivating the Yubari King is a meticulous process that requires careful attention to detail. Each melon is grown in a greenhouse and is hand-pollinated. To ensure the melon grows into a perfect round shape, all but one fruit per plant is pruned. The remaining melon is then allowed to mature while being supported by a small cradle.

Price

The price of a Yubari King melon can vary greatly, depending on its quality and the time of year. However, they are generally very expensive. The highest price ever paid for a pair of Yubari King melons at auction was 5 million yen (approximately $45,000 USD) in 2019.

Taste

The Yubari King is renowned for its sweetness. The melon's high sugar content, combined with its juicy texture and fragrant aroma, makes it a highly sought-after delicacy.

See Also

• Japanese Cuisine
• Luxury Goods
• Agriculture in Japan

External Links

• Official Yubari King website (Japanese)
• Yubari Travel Guide