[Introduction: A One-of-a-Kind Treasure]

In Yubari City, Hokkaido – a land once thriving on coal mining – a special fruit has been born from passion and ingenuity. That fruit is the “Yubari Melon.” With its vibrant orange flesh, incredibly smooth melt-in-your-mouth texture, and a rich, sweet aroma, it offers an unforgettable experience. Known truly as a “miraculous taste,” it captivates people not only across Japan but all around the world.

[The Secrets of Yubari Melon: What Makes It So Special?]

  • The Chosen Variety: “Yubari King”The official variety name is “Yubari King.” It is a unique, first-generation crossbreed (F1 hybrid) created by combining the aromatic “Spicy Cantaloupe” variety with the sweet, beautifully netted “Earl’s Favourite” variety. The seeds of this delicate variety are strictly managed by JA Yubari City and are never allowed outside the region. This exclusivity is precisely why its unique, inimitable taste is protected.
  • Yubari’s Unique Natural Environment (Terroir)The distinctive climate and soil of Yubari City are also key to its deliciousness. The well-draining volcanic ash soil is ideal for melon cultivation, and the significant temperature difference between day and night dramatically increases the melon’s sugar content. The natural blessings unique to this land produce the Yubari Melon’s rich sweetness and deep flavor.
  • The Passion and Craftsmanship of the GrowersEach Yubari Melon is nurtured with the love and painstaking effort of its growers. Temperature and moisture levels are meticulously controlled inside vinyl greenhouses, and pollination occurs naturally with the help of bees. By limiting the harvest to only a few fruits per vine, nutrients are concentrated to bring out the highest quality. Determining the perfect harvest time is itself a “craft,” relying on the growers’ years of experience.
  • Nationally Recognized Quality: Geographical Indication (GI) RegistrationThe strong link between the quality of the Yubari Melon and its origin has been recognized by the Japanese government. In 2015, it was registered under Japan’s Geographical Indication (GI) protection system (Registration No. 4). This designation certifies that only melons produced in Yubari according to specific methods and standards can bear the name “Yubari Melon,” guaranteeing its high quality and brand value.

[Strict Quality Standards: A Mark of Trust]

Harvested Yubari Melons are gathered at JA Yubari City’s sorting facility and rigorously inspected by expert examiners.

  • Kyosen (共撰): The Premium GradeThese are the highest quality melons that meet all criteria, including sugar content, beauty of the net pattern, shape, and weight. They are highly esteemed as gifts. They are further classified into four ranks:
    • Tokushu (特秀 – Special Excellent): Sugar content of 13 degrees Brix or higher.
    • Shu (秀 – Excellent): Sugar content of 12 degrees Brix or higher.
    • Yu (優 – Superior): Sugar content of 11 degrees Brix or higher.
    • Ryo (良 – Good): Sugar content of 10 degrees Brix or higher. Kyosen melons are identified by a distinctive diamond-shaped sticker.
  • Kosen (個撰): The Standard GradeWhile these melons may not meet the strictest cosmetic standards of the Kyosen grade, their delicious Yubari Melon taste is guaranteed. They are primarily enjoyed at home and are available at a relatively more affordable price. Kosen melons are identified by an oval-shaped sticker.

[History: A Treasure Born from a Coal Mining Town]

The history of the Yubari Melon began in the 1960s, during a period of transition for the coal industry, as the town sought new local specialties. Initially, there were many challenges: the orange flesh was considered unusual, and its rapid ripening made long-distance transportation difficult, earning it the nickname “phantom melon.” However, through relentless efforts – establishing a growers’ association, introducing strict quality standards, and improving distribution networks – the Yubari Melon established its status as one of Japan’s leading luxury fruits.

[Experiencing the Best Flavor: Ripeness and How to Enjoy]

Yubari Melons require ripening (tsuijuku – 追熟) after purchase. Here are some tips to enjoy them at their absolute best:

  • Judging Ripeness:
    • Color: The skin changes from green (at harvest) to yellowish as it ripens.
    • Stem (Tsuru): The T-shaped stem will start to wilt and dry slightly when it’s nearing ripeness.
    • Aroma: When the melon develops a strong, sweet characteristic fragrance, it’s the perfect time to eat.
  • How to Ripen:After purchase, let the melon ripen at room temperature in a cool place away from direct sunlight. Only put it in the refrigerator just before you plan to eat it.
  • The Delicious Way to Eat:Chilling the melon in the refrigerator for 2-3 hours before eating enhances its sweetness and aroma. The simplest way to savor its natural flavor is to cut it in half, scoop out the seeds and fibrous center, and eat the flesh directly with a spoon.
  • [IMPORTANT] Checking for Ripeness:Never press the melon to check if it’s ripe. The bottom is particularly delicate, and pressing it can damage the flesh and spoil the flavor. Please judge ripeness by color, aroma, and the condition of the stem.
  • A Note of Caution:While delicious, eating too much Yubari Melon at once may cause stomach discomfort for some people. Please enjoy it in moderation.

[About Our Store]

Since our establishment in the first year of Heisei (1989), we have been dedicated to sharing the wonder of Yubari Melons with countless people. Thanks to the patronage of our customers, we have grown into a store deeply rooted in the local community.

The founding owner’s belief – “Deliver the best Yubari Melons to our customers” – has been passed down to the second generation. We carry this sentiment in our hearts, upholding tradition while embracing new challenges.

[A Message to Our International Customers]

Many international visitors from around the globe visit our store and have come to love Yubari Melons. With its unique sweetness, rich aroma, and special taste nurtured by Hokkaido’s distinctive nature, the Yubari Melon is truly a representative fruit of Japan.

Inside our store, you can actually sample top-quality Yubari Melons. We strive to create a space where you can not only enjoy this luxurious taste during your stay in Japan but also connect with Hokkaido’s nature and culture through the melon.

[To Everyone Around the World]

Through Yubari Melons, we aim to convey the excellence of Japanese agriculture. We will continue our community-based efforts while actively promoting the appeal of Yubari Melons to people overseas. If you visit Hokkaido, we warmly invite you to stop by our store and experience the true taste of this exceptional fruit.

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[Finally: A Special Experience Awaits You]

The Yubari Melon is more than just a fruit. It is an exceptional item carrying a special story woven from Hokkaido’s majestic nature, the passion and wisdom of its growers, and Japan’s rich food culture. We invite you to experience this miraculous taste and create unforgettable memories in Hokkaido.