Madou Pomelo: A Royal Fruit of Ancient Times

In Taiwan, mention pomelo and Madou instantly comes to mind—this small town in Tainan has become synonymous with the fruit thanks to its world-renowned wendan. These prized pomelos not only dominate the domestic market but are also exported to China, Japan, and beyond, cementing Madou's reputation as Taiwan's pomelo capital.

But how did Madou earn this prestigious title? Three centuries ago, this region bore little resemblance to today's orchards—it was actually a bustling trading port. Through the ebb and flow of time, human development and river sedimentation gradually transformed Madou from a coastal commerce hub to an inland settlement, leaving only traces of its maritime past. While the trading glory faded, the mineral-rich alluvial soil unexpectedly set the stage for Madou's agricultural renaissance.

Madou Pomelo: The Tender, Juicy Fruit That Captivated Emperors

When Qing dynasty merchants first introduced pomelo trees by chance, the resulting fruit proved even sweeter than those from its native Fujian province, giving birth to Taiwan's own Madou Wendan variety.

Much like oolong tea, this transplanted fruit found new excellence through Taiwan's unique terroir and cultivation traditions.

Madou pomelo displays a distinctive conical or pear shape wrapped in pale yellow-green skin, while the flesh ranges from pale white to light yellow-white or even delicate pink hues. The texture strikes a perfect balance—tender and juicy with a pleasant bounce, occasionally touched by a subtle bitterness that only enhances the fruit's refreshing fragrance. As word spread of this exceptional variety, Madou Wendan earned its place among the elite, becoming a tribute fruit to the Qing court and later, during Japanese rule, a prized offering presented to the Japanese Emperor himself.