Why Japan's Crown melons cost $150 and what makes them a prestige gift
Japan's Shizuoka Crown melons cost $50 to $150 each. Growers hand-pat each one to get the perfect shape. In Japan, gifting these melons shows deep respect. In Australia, people see fruit as cheap everyday food.
These luxury melons are more than just fruit. Each one is hand-patted by growers to get an even shape and pattern.
Only one melon grows per vine. This gives them more nutrients and extra sweetness.
They taste like the sweetest watermelon, with the texture of a honeydew and the smell of a peach. In Japan, gifting them signals respect and is thought to bring health and wealth.
In Australia, we give fruit as a cheap gift, if at all. We have honeydews and rockmelons all year round.
In Japan, melons are seasonal and special.
Why it mattersA joke by Australia's PM about the gift sparked a row. It shows a gap between cultures. Japan sees premium fruit as a sign of respect. Australia sees it as everyday groceries.
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