Japan is well-known for its delicious and unique food culture, and when it comes to fruits, they are no exception. They don't just grow fruits; they put a lot of love and care into it. This dedication makes some of their fruits not only super tasty but also some of the most expensive you can find anywhere. People from all over the world want to try them. In this article, we will explore the 8 most expensive fruits in Japan. They are a treat for both your taste buds and, to be honest, they might lighten your wallet a bit too. But many say it's worth every penny. Let's take a look!
Most Expensive Mango in Japan
Taiyo no Tamago (Egg of the Sun) Mango
Japan produces some of the most premium mangoes globally, with brands like "Taiyo no Tamago" (Egg of the Sun) leading the pack. These mangoes are prized for their luscious sweetness and vibrant orange flesh. A single Taiyo no Tamago Mango can fetch several hundred dollars, making it a coveted luxury fruit.
Most Expensive Melon in Japan
Yubari King Melon
The Yubari King Melon is often called the "King of Fruits" in Japan and is a prized luxury item. These melons are grown exclusively in the town of Yubari in Hokkaido. Their perfectly round shape, bright orange flesh, and unparalleled sweetness make them highly sought after. A pair of Yubari King Melons can cost hundreds of dollars, and the most pristine specimens can reach thousands of dollars at auction.
The Shizuoka Crown Melon
The Shizuoka Crown Melon deserves an honorable mention. Hailing from Shizuoka, these melons are prized for their impeccable flavor and texture. The perfect combination of sweetness and juiciness places them among Japan's elite fruits. Prices can vary, but you can expect to pay several hundred dollars for one of these royal melons.
Most Expensive Strawberry in Japan
White Jewel Strawberries
White Jewel Strawberries are a true delicacy in Japan. These strawberries are pale white in color and have a delicate, sweet flavor that sets them apart from regular strawberries. A pack of White Jewel Strawberries can cost as much as $40, making them a luxurious treat often used in upscale Japanese desserts.
The Bizin-Hime
The Bizin-Hime, also known as "Beautiful Princess," is a premium Japanese fruit that lives up to its name. Cultivated with meticulous attention to detail, these apples are celebrated for their extraordinary sweetness and crisp texture. If you're willing to indulge, a single Bizin-Hime apple can cost you a significant sum, but the taste is truly fit for royalty.
Most Expensive Cherry in Japan
Sato Nishiki
Cherries are highly cherished in Japan, and the "Sato Nishiki" cherries take the cherry experience to the next level. These cherries are renowned for their enormous size, deep red hue, and intense sweetness. A single Sato Nishiki cherry can cost more than 10,000 yen (about $90), making them the most expensive cherries in Japan. Most Expensive Watermelon in Japan.
The Beni-Shuho Cherry
The Beni-Shuho cherry may not be as well-known as some of its counterparts, but it's a hidden gem in the world of Japanese fruits. These cherries, grown with care and precision, offer a delectable blend of sweetness and tartness that's hard to resist. While not as expensive as Sato Nishiki cherries, they still command a respectable price due to their unique flavor profile.
Most Expensive Watermelon in Japan
Densuke Watermelon
The Densuke Watermelon, grown on the island of Hokkaido, is known for its striking black rind and sweet, crisp flesh. These watermelons are rare and highly prized. The scarcity of Densuke Watermelons contributes to their high price tag, often exceeding $250 per melon.
Most Expensive Grape in Japan
Ruby Roman Grapes
Grapes are a staple fruit in Japan, and the Ruby Roman variety stands out as one of the priciest. These grapes are known for their deep red color and exceptional sweetness. Each grape is handpicked and inspected for perfection. In 2019, a bunch of Ruby Roman grapes sold for a jaw-dropping $12,000 at auction, making them one of the most expensive grapes globally.
Most Expensive Banana in Japan
Gokusen Banana
While bananas are typically considered an affordable and common fruit worldwide, Japan has managed to elevate them to luxury status with the "Gokusen" banana. Cultivated in Okayama Prefecture, these bananas are a premium variety known for their exceptional flavor and elegant packaging. A single Gokusen banana can cost around 500 yen (approximately $4.50), making it the most expensive banana in Japan. The meticulous care taken in their cultivation ensures that each Gokusen banana delivers a taste experience that goes beyond the ordinary, making it a unique and coveted fruit in Japan.
Most Expensive Orange in Japan
Dekopon (Sumo Citrus)
Dekopon, also known as Sumo Citrus, is a seedless and sweet citrus fruit that's easy to peel. It's often considered one of the best citrus fruits in the world. A single Dekopon can cost around $8 in a Japanese grocery store, making it a premium addition to Japanese snacks and sweets.
In Japan, fruits aren't just a snack; they're an art form and a symbol of excellence. While these expensive fruits may not be a part of the everyday diet for most people, they are a testament to Japan's dedication to perfection in agriculture. If you ever find yourself in a Japanese grocery store, be sure to explore the world of Japanese snacks and sweets, and perhaps, if you're feeling indulgent, try one of these extraordinary fruits for a truly unique culinary experience.