Guanxi pomelo in Fujian, China

The pomelo, a citrus fruit native to South East Asia, is usually pale green to yellow when ripe, with sweet white (or, more rarely, pink or red) flesh and a very thick spongy rind.

As the largest citrus fruit, 15-25 cm in diameter, and usually weighing 1-2 kg, pomelo has other names such as pummelo, pommelo, Chinese grapefruit, jabong, lusho fruit, pompelmous, and shaddock.

It may have been introduced into China around 100 B.C and cultivated in southern China like Guangdong, Guangxi and Fujian Province.

In Fujian, the most famous area for pomelo production is Pinghe County.

Pinghe County, situated at the southeastern part of Zhangzhou, is one of the most famous hometown locations to overseas Chinese. It is adjacent to two Special Economic Zone Xiamen and Shantou and covers an area of 2328.6 km² with a total population of 528 thousand.

Located at the subtropical region, Pinghe has a pleasant weather and is rich in natural and cultural recourses including minerals, hydraulic power, hot-springs, fruits, tea, mountains and temples.

History of pomelo

Pomelo planting has a centuries-old history in China. The Guanxi Honey pomelo has been planted for more than 500 years history in Pinghe County.

In Ming and Qing Dynasty, the pomelo was well-known, especially in Qianlong era of Qing Dynasty. It was known as the tribute of royalty.

During later times, Tongzhi Emperor decreed that "Xipu xinji" and it's green dragon flag be labeled on the fruit as its brand. During that period, the pomelo was called "Emperor Pomelo" by locals.

Present situation of Pinghe pomelo

The Pinghe Honey Pomelo season starts at the end of August or the beginning of September until mid-January.

It is now becoming more and more popular worldwide because of it's juiciness and slightly bitter taste, it is also packed with vitamins.

Since 2005, government of Pignghe County have been holding Guanxi Honey Pomelo Festival in every October. Thousands of pomelo dealers and tourists attended the festival.

With more than 500 years of growing history, Pinghe Guanxi honey pomelo ranks the first amongst all varieties of pomelos in China. The export of this fruit is growing year by year.

1) Self-driving: Go to Zhangzhou through Xiazhang Highway - then turn to S207 Provincial Highway to Pinghe County

2) Use a travel agent:

Renting a van packaged with driver is the next best alternative. Call Apple Travel to organize a group tour. If you've a small group, The ideal number in the group is 5 or 6.