A Densuke watermelon is desired as much for its appearance as it is for its taste, having a glossy, black rind and bright red, nearly seedless flesh that is extremely sweet.

The melons are very expensive because of their scarcity. Densuke watermelons are grown exclusively on the island of Hokkaido in northern Japan.

Setting a record in 2008, a 17-pound specimen of the rare fruit sold for an astonishing 650,000 yen, worth $6,100 USD at the time.

Densuke are labor-intensive and require acreage, water, and attention. Only a limited supply is available, driving up their price at auction.