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"Makuwa-uri" (Cucumis melo var. makuwa) belongs to Cucurbitaceae (the Gourd family). It is an annual herb that is native to India. This herb was introduced into Japan in ancient days. The fruits are columnar with hard fleshes and pear-like textures. The Japanese name comes from the fact that since the 2nd and 3rd centuries, Kamimakuwa Village in Gifu Prefecture (currently Motosu City) has been regarded as a famous production area for "uri". Currently, Prince melon, which is a hybrid of this species and "melon", is the mainstream. However, I think "Makuwa-uri" is the offering for Obon.
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