Monday, June 16, 2025
Overview of first shipment
On Wednesday, June 11th from 2:30 pm, the first shipment of sunflower watermelon, a specialty of Hokuriku Town, took place at the agricultural product collection and shipping facility of the JA Kitasorachi Hokuriku Branch.
Production Status
- The Sunflower Watermelon Producers Association (Chairman Takada Akimitsu) explained that seven farmers are planting three hectares.
- On the first shipping day, 64 boxes were shipped from four farms to markets in Sapporo and Asahikawa.
- This year's watermelons are of excellent quality, with a sugar content of 12 degrees, exceeding the standard of 11 degrees.
commemorative photograph
Tasting
After taking a commemorative photo with the producers, the watermelons were cut and tasted, and they were well received, with some saying, "They're crisp, refreshingly sweet and delicious!"
Interview with Akihiko Takada, president of the association
President Takada spoke about the characteristics of "Sunflower Watermelon," this year's harvest, and future prospects.
h4>Characteristics of Sunflower Watermelon
- The fruit is yellow, juicy, and has a refreshing sweetness.
- It is recommended to drink it instead of juice on hot days.
This year's accomplishments and challenges
- Due to lack of sunlight and low temperatures in April, shipments were delayed by about five days compared to last year.
- Due to the large temperature difference, the sugar content is high.
- One of the challenges we face is to raise awareness of the "Sunflower Watermelon" (Kokodama), and we would like to spread the word about the "Yellow Watermelon" to children as well.
- The image matches the yellow of the sunflower, which is the symbol of Hokuryu Town, and we hope that more people will experience it.
Chairman Takada said.
Sunflower watermelons from the town of Hokuryu are full of sunshine, full of love from the growers, and grown healthy and delicious!
We send our endless love, gratitude and smiles to "Himawari Suika," a sparkling yellow watermelon that reminds us of sunflowers.
First auction at Kyokuichi Co., Ltd. (Asahikawa)
The first auction of Sunflower Watermelon was held at the Kyokuichi Fruit and Vegetable Auction in Asahikawa City early in the morning on Thursday, June 12th, the day after the first shipment.
In the center, the shipped "sunflower watermelons" are lined up in a row. "One case contains 5 excellent melons" - these are magnificent Hokuryu sunflower melons!
As in last year, the taste test will be conducted.
As the sunflower watermelons are sliced with large knives and lined up, many buyers gather around, drawn by the sweet aroma.
"It's delicious!" a smile spreads across their faces.
Greetings from Mr. Akimitsu Takada, Chairman of the Association
"I would like to take this opportunity to thank you for your continued efforts in selling sunflower watermelons.
This year, work progressed smoothly, but due to lack of sunlight in April, shipment was delayed by about five days.
The final shipment is scheduled for September 10th.
We are also looking to increase the area of land we cultivate, so we are currently recruiting and training new farmers. In the future, the association is considering training new farmers with the aim of increasing the area of land we cultivate.
Thank you for your continued support this year," said Chairman Takada.
First auction of Hokuryu Town's specialty "Sunflower Watermelon"
The first auction begins, and the brokers' spirited shouts ring out!
A quick bid!
The gift price is 50,000 yen (1 box of 5 Hide balls)! Congratulations!
Breakfast: Social gathering
After the first auction ended without incident, we moved to the dining room on the second floor for breakfast and a social gathering. It was a precious moment of lively conversation while enjoying delicious food.
Market situation
"Sunflower Watermelons" from Hokuryu Town are sent out across the country from Asahikawa Market in the heart of Hokkaido!
With boundless love, gratitude and prayers to Hokuryu Town's "Sunflower Watermelon," which shines in the color of sunflowers and brings the energy of Hokkaido's summer.
Youtube Video
More Photos
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◇ ◇ Photography, editing and website management: Noboru Terauchi Writer: Ikuko Terauchi
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