#Japan #Tokyo #Kitakami #Nishiwaga #Tourism Fair

Kitakami-Nishiwaga Tourism Fair in Tokyo

The charming town of Nishiwaga, nestled in Iwate Prefecture, will host the Kitakami-Nishiwaga Tourism Fair at the Iwate Galaxy Plaza in Ginza, Tokyo, on February 28 and March 1, 2026. This event aims to showcase the unique local products and tourist attractions of Nishiwaga and the neighboring Kitakami city. It is organized by the Kitakami-Nishiwaga Tourism Liaison Council, reflecting a collaboration between these two regions to promote their specialties and culture to a wider audience in the bustling metropolitan area of Tokyo.

The Iwate Galaxy Plaza acts as a significant platform for disseminating information about Iwate Prefecture and attracts numerous visitors, making it an ideal location for Nishiwaga to present its charm directly to potential tourists and residents of the capital region. At the Nishiwaga booth, visitors can sample a variety of products from local businesses, highlighting the bounty of the region.

Some standout items include:

• - Yamazato no Megumi Jam by Yamani Agricultural Co., which features a delightful assortment of local fruits, including currant, strawberry, and blueberry.
• - Products from the Nishiwaga Industrial Corporation, such as Yukinochikara Matsumae-zuke with Nishi-warabi, Handmade Aged Pickled Spicy Vegetables, and Nishi-warabi Pickles.

In addition to Nishiwaga’s offerings, visitors can also explore other local products from Kitakami. The selection includes “Taxi Driver” sake by Kikuzakari Sake Brewery and egoma processed products from the Arba Co., showcasing the diverse flavors and expertise of the region.

The fair will also feature storytelling events at 1:30 PM each day, where attendees can enjoy traditional folktales from the Kitakami and Nishiwaga areas. Moreover, there will be a raffle drawing with specialties as prizes, enriching the overall experience and encouraging visitor engagement.

Nishiwaga is characterized by its lush natural environment, embraced by the Ouu Mountain Range, and is known for its rich hot spring culture and unique local products developed from local food resources. Through this event, the municipality seeks to broaden awareness of Nishiwaga's attractions and ultimately enhance tourism and community interactions within the metropolitan area.

Event Details

• - Name: Kitakami-Nishiwaga Tourism Fair
• - Date: February 28 (Saturday) and March 1 (Sunday), 2026
• - Time: 10:30 AM - 5:00 PM
• - Venue: Iwate Galaxy Plaza (5-15-1 Ginza, Chuo-ku, Tokyo)
• - Organizer: Kitakami-Nishiwaga Tourism Liaison Council
• - Exhibitors:

- Kitakami City (Kikuzakari Sake Brewery, Arba Co.)
- Nishiwaga Town (Nishiwaga Industrial Corporation, Yamani Agricultural Co.)

The event promises to be an excellent opportunity for local businesses to gain exposure and for visitors to experience the rich culture and flavors of Nishiwaga and its neighboring regions. The fair not only highlights the distinct gastronomical offerings from this region but also serves to foster connections between local producers and consumers in the heart of Tokyo.

About Nishiwaga

Nishiwaga is a town located in the southwestern part of Iwate Prefecture, close to the border with Akita Prefecture. This beautiful mountainous region is characterized by its rich natural resources, with over 80% of its area covered by forests. It is known as one of Japan’s heavy snowfall areas. The town promotes agriculture and tourism based on its abundant seasonal offerings—spring vegetables, autumn foliage, and winter landscapes. It is also recognized for its hot spring culture that has thrived for generations. Nishiwaga today continues to develop its regional brand, “Yukinochikara”, focusing on the production and marketing of local specialties influenced by its snowy climate and rich agricultural heritage.