#Japan #Awaji Island #Norika Fujiwara #Akakiku

Discovering Awaji Island's Culinary Delights

In a delightful journey into Japan's rich agricultural heritage, well-known television personality Norika Fujiwara recently visited Awaji Island seeking the renowned peak of Akakiku, dubbed "Shu no Kiwami." This vibrant flower variety is a testament to the artistry of local horticulturists from the Hyogo Prefecture. Fujiwara, known for her charm and culinary passion, is the host of the YouTube program, "Norika to Yuru Nomu - Delivering Japan's 'Delicious' to You" produced in collaboration with JA Town, a direct-from-farm shopping site supported by the Japan Agricultural Cooperatives (JA).

On October 26, a new episode featuring Fujiwara's exploration of the Akakiku cultivation site aired. Through this program, viewers are treated to the breathtaking sights of the flourishing flowers, as well as insights into the cultivation practices of the JA Awaji Island Nakagawa Flower Association. The bright blossoms of Shu no Kiwami were in their full glory, captivating both the eyes and the senses.

After her flower exploration, Fujiwara indulged in a tasting experience at a recommended local restaurant where she enjoyed delicious seafood and local sake, further highlighting the superb food culture of Awaji Island. The episode showcases the perfect pairing between the beauty of local agriculture and the exquisite tastes that the island offers. The focus on the agricultural bounty is part of the broader mission of JA Town, encouraging viewers to appreciate food sourced from their local regions.

In conjunction with this episode, a limited-time campaign has been launched for the fans of the show. From October 26 to December 21, customers who purchase featured products will have a chance to win a special prize: a handwritten, signed “masu” (a traditional Japanese wooden measuring cup) by Fujiwara herself. Along with this, everyone purchasing Akakiku will receive a coupon for 800 yen towards the purchase of local Awaji Island onions, further promoting the local produce.

To join the excitement, participants simply need to add a comment stating “Norika to Yuru Nomu” when they order qualifying products online. The program is a fun and enticing way to connect people with the rich agricultural practices in Japan, allowing them to experience flavors from the various regions while possibly scoring delightful prizes.

The YouTube program, airing every Sunday at 6 PM, features Fujiwara alongside various special guests who join her in savoring the local offerings featured by JA Town. This ongoing relationship between local producers and culinary exploration aims to create a vibrant community around the love of food.

JA Town, operated by the National Agricultural Cooperative Federation, is dedicated to ensuring that the abundance of Japan’s agricultural products reaches consumers directly. The site’s motto encourages a lifestyle of enjoying delicious Japanese cuisine, which Fujiwara embodies through her engaging series.

With her enthusiasm for celebrating local produce and culinary delights, Fujiwara’s journey offers an entertaining lens through which to appreciate the beautiful Awaji Island. From the unique flowers to the delicious food, her explorations remind us that there is a lot to discover right in our own backyard, waiting to be enjoyed and shared.