Hokkaido Melon Pair Breaks Record at Over $36,000 at Auction

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A pair of premium Hokkaido melons has set a new record at the first auction of the season, fetching 5.8 million yen (about $36,500) and surpassing the previous high of 5 million yen set in 2019. The auction took place at Sapporo's wholesale market, with the melons prized for their sweet taste and crunchy texture. The winning bidder, a local restaurant owner, plans to use them for a special dining event.

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Japan Hokkaido melon record auction premium fruit Sapporo

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On May 17, 2026, at Japan's first fruit auction of the season, a pair of Hokkaido melons sold for 5.8 million yen (approximately $36,500), smashing the previous record of 5 million yen set in 2019.

The new record was set at the wholesale market in Sapporo, the capital of Hokkaido prefecture. The melons belong to a premium variety known for its sweet, refreshing flavor and characteristic crispness, often selected as luxury gifts in Japanese culture.

The soaring bid reflects the strong demand for high-quality early-season produce. The winning bidder, the owner of a local high-end restaurant, said they would use the melons to serve guests on a special occasion.

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