As early summer approaches, Hangzhou is witnessing the transitions from blooming flowers to bountiful fruits. The air is filled with sweet, fruity fragrances—the seasonal treasures are not only delicious but also brimming with health benefits.

Tangqi Loquats

"Golden as tangerines in May"—Hangzhou’s summer begins with juicy loquats. Tangqi Town, renowned as "Zhejiang’s Loquat Homeland", boasts the premium "Ruantiao Baisha" variety. Its jade-like flesh drips with honey-like sweetness, releasing streams of nectar when peeled.

As a fruit with dual medicinal and culinary value, loquats are rich in nutrients. The TCM classic Compendium of Materia Medica says that "Loquats moisten the organs and nourish the heart-lung." Their leaves, bitter and slightly cold in nature, clear lung heat, relieve coughs, and ease nausea. The iconic "Fritillaria Loquat Syrup" is crafted from these leaves.

Selection Tips

Deep orange-red skin = sweeter flesh

Oval shape with star-patterned base = juicier

Intact fuzz = fresher

Avoid refrigeration—enjoy them fresh!

Recipes

Loquat & Snow Fungus Soup

Fritillaria Loquat Syrup

Mulberries

Peak season alert! These antioxidant-rich jewels are nature’s candy—tart, sweet, and loaded with anthocyanins. Traditionally hailed as a " superfruit", they nourish blood, darken hair, and enhance skin radiance.

Modern studies confirm that mulberries are packed with sugars, proteins, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. They boost immunity, improve sleep, slow aging, and support heart health.

Selection Tips

Glossy, jet-black berries with green stems = freshest

Avoid fermented odors; choose fragrant ones!

Note: Perishable—buy in small batches. Those with weak digestion, please consume sparingly.

Recipes

Mulberry & Lily Juice

Mulberry Honey Drink

Qiaosi Watermelon

“No summer is complete without watermelon!” Hangzhou’s beloved Qiaosi Watermelons are finally here! Thin-skinned, crisp, and explosively juicy, they’ve won hearts for generations.

Farmers note: Early batches arrive around May 1st, with peak sweetness hitting mid-May--best time to enjoy the watermelon!

Selection Tips

Round, plump shape = ideal ripeness

Tap test: A deep, hollow sound = perfectly ripe

Fresh, green, dry stem = newly harvested