“To improve is to change; to be perfect is to change often.”
~Winston Churchill (former English Prime Minister)

If one believes the wisdom of former Prime Minister Winston Churchill, Japan is flawless! Every trip back to my hometown of Tokyo reveals revolutionary change. It’s an odd feeling to be gazing at futuristic architecture. Yet, sensing the familiarity of the surroundings in my bones. Has this ever happened to you?

Japanese temples, shrines and palaces, however, seem to be permanent fixtures. Ditto to the attitude about fruit. Particularly Japanese melons.  Forever the fancy Japanese melons have been fancied and expensive! The melons also figure into corporate and family budgets as reciprocation for generous favors. 

In Japan, the best melon is from Yubari, Hokkaido. If you really want to show your appreciation you give a hybrid Yubari melon. (A mix between a cantaloupe and other melons.) AND presented in a box.

Production of Yubari, Musk, Crown, Prince and all other melon varieties are limited due to Japan’s rugged terrain and climate. Controlled temperature melon hot houses are also costly. Plus, in Japan, slightly bruised or blemished melons are discarded in favor of their more attractive cousins. Less availability, more demand equals high market clamor and value, right?

For those living in Japan and craving melon, there is melon ice cream. (There’s a melon soda, too!) Inspired by Reve de Chef, I created my own version of Japanese melon ice cream. Fresh melon tidbits kiss rich vanilla ice cream. It is the ultimate summertime treat.

Scroll down and you’ll see Japanese Melon Ice Cream is one of many sweets offered for tonight’s nostalgia inspired Sunday Supper. You’ll also see that Coleen of The Red Head Baker has lined up quite a delectable spread. If you’d like to see your dessert or special dish on the SundaySupper table, scroll down for details.