A trip to the source of Japan’s crown melons reveals the care that goes into growing the fruit – and a town relaxed about the prime minister’s gaffe.

Social media has erupted in Japan over Anthony Albanese’s “vulgar” melon incident which some users said was to be expected from “citizens of a penal colony”.

Australia's Prime Minister Anthony Albanese faces criticism for comments about melons gifted by Japanese counterpart Sanae Takaichi, with a former envoy deeming them disrespectful.