The peach originated in China in the 10th century BC (!) and was the favored fruit of Emperors. In China, Japan, Korea, Laos and Vietnam, peaches are very popular and many myths are associated with it. For example, Momotaro, one of Japan's most noble and semi-historical heroes was born in an enormous peach floating down a stream. In China, peaches were consumed by immortals due to their mystic virtue of longevity (long life). Peaches are an important birthday food in Korea and Japan, especially for the 60th, 70th and beyond birthdays. Asian peaches are often more white than the western yellow peaches.