My Experience with the Luxurious Crown Melon from Japan

I recently had the privilege of receiving a Crown Melon from Melissa’s Produce, and let me tell you, this $156 bad boy, referred to as the “Japanese King of Fruits” lives up to its reputation! Grown in Hamamatsu, Japan, where the region boasts the longest sunshine hours and a warm climate, Crown Melons are the epitome of elegance. Known for their delicate sweetness and unmatched juicy texture, this muskmelon is unlike any I’ve ever tasted—I don’t think I’ve ever experienced a melon this juicy.

What sets Crown Melons apart is their unique cultivation: the “one tree, one fruit” method, a 100-year-old tradition. By allowing only one fruit per sapling, all the plant’s nutrients and flavor concentrate into a single, perfect melon. Each melon undergoes rigorous inspection and sugar content analysis, ensuring only the best make it to market. You’ll know it’s authentic by the signature “T” shaped stem, and it arrives in a beautiful gift box, making it a ceremonial treat.

To check for ripeness, gently press the bottom—if it feels slightly soft, it’s ready. To prepare, cut off the bitter stem, wash your knife, then slice the melon vertically. Scoop out the seeds (I saved mine to plant in spring!), and cut into smaller sections. For the best experience, chill it in the fridge for 2–3 hours before serving. 

As a hybrid, the seeds I harvested might not yield a melon as sweet as this one, but I’m excited to try growing them in my Zone 6B garden next spring. It’ll be a fun experiment, even if the results don’t match the original’s perfection. If you ever get the chance to try a Crown Melon, don’t miss out—it’s a taste sensation worth every penny!