Yubari King

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.

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