By the shores of Taihu Lake in May, the breeze carries a whisper of honey—Suzhou’s prized White Jade Loquats are ripe for the picking.  

Nestled along Taihu’s waters, Dongshan has been China’s "loquat golden belt" since the Tang Dynasty. Here, the White Jade variety reigns supreme, its flesh dripping with nectar-like sweetness. Thanks to Dongshan’s dramatic shifts between warm days and cool nights, these fruits develop an exquisite balance of flavor, earning them the lyrical name "crystal leaves, white jade fruit."  

Yet this luxury is fleeting—Dongshan’s finest orchards cover less than 1,000 acres, and the harvest lasts a mere 20 days. As news of their arrival spreads, locals and travelers flock to the groves, hands outstretched for nature’s golden treasures.  

Though loquats now grow in over 30 countries, their roots trace back to China, where they’re treasured not just for their delicate taste but also for their healing properties. In traditional medicine, their leaves, pits, and blossoms soothe coughs, clear lungs, and aid digestion. A taste of sunshine—but don’t wait, or you’ll miss their brief, brilliant season!