[Sunflower watermelon cultivation, first shipment & first auction] [Hokuryu Sunflower Watermelon Producers Association] Bringing the energy of summer to Hokuryu Town

Monday, June 16, 2025

Overview of first shipment

On Wednesday, June 11th from 2:30pm, the first shipment of sunflower watermelons, a specialty of Hokuryu Town, took place at the agricultural product collection and shipping facility of the JA Kitasorachi Hokuryu Branch.

Production Status

• The Sunflower Watermelon Producers Association (Chairman Takada Akimitsu) explained that seven farmers are planting three hectares of land.
• On the first shipping day, 64 boxes were shipped from four farms to markets in Sapporo and Asahikawa.
• This year's watermelons are excellent, with a sugar content of 12 degrees, exceeding the standard of 11 degrees.

Commemorative photo

Tasting session

After taking a commemorative photo with the producers, the watermelons were cut and tasted, and the participants were impressed, saying, "They're crisp, refreshingly sweet, and delicious!"

Interview with Akimitsu Takada, the union president

Chairman Takada spoke about the characteristics of the "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 achievements 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 our challenges is to raise awareness of "Sunflower Watermelon" (Kokodama), and we would like to spread the word about "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 try it.

  Chairman Takada said.

Hokuryu Town's sunflower watermelons have been grown in plenty of sunlight and with lots of love from the producers, making them healthy and delicious!

With boundless love, gratitude, and smiles, we send this "Sunflower Watermelon" to you, a sparkling yellow that reminds us of sunflowers.

First auction at Kyokuichi Co., Ltd. (Asahikawa)

The first auction of "Sunflower Watermelon" was held at Kyokuichi Co., Ltd. Fruit and Vegetable Auction House in Asahikawa City in the early morning of 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 five excellent quality melons" - these are the 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!" smiles spread across their faces.

Greetings from 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 a 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 we cultivate, so we are currently recruiting and training new farmers. In the future, the association is looking to develop new farmers with the aim of increasing the area 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 spirited shouts of the brokers ring out!

A quick bid!
The gift price is 50,000 yen (1 box of 5 excellent 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 time filled with lively conversation while enjoying delicious food.

Market situation

Hokuryu Town's "Sunflower Watermelon" travels all over Japan from Asahikawa Market in the heart of Hokkaido!

With boundless love, gratitude, and prayers for Hokuryu Town's "Sunflower Watermelon," which shines in the color of sunflowers and delivers the vibrant energy of Hokkaido's summer...

YouTube videos

Other photos

[Hokuryu Town, Hokkaido] Sunflower watermelon cultivation [Hokuryu Sunflower Watermelon Producers Association] Photos (489 photos) are here >>

Related articles