#Japan #Tokyo #Family Event #Plenus #Rice Culture

Embracing Rice Culture: Plenus Hosts a Unique Family Event

This summer, Plenus Corporation, renowned for its dining establishments like "Hotto Motto" and "Yayoi Ken," is set to host an engaging event titled, "Learning About Rice and Rice Tasting: A Family Workshop" on August 8, 2026. This unique initiative aims to pass down the vibrant heritage of Japan's rice culture to the next generation, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation for one of the country's staple foods.

Event Details

Plenus will hold this event in their Chūō-ku, Nihonbashi Kayabacho office, with two sessions: one in the morning from 10:30 AM to 12:00 PM and another in the afternoon from 2:30 PM to 4:00 PM. Ideal for elementary school children and their parents, this workshop is free of charge, making it accessible to many families eager to learn.

Workshop Highlights

1. Understanding Rice through Interactive Learning
Led by the distinguished researcher and journalist, Riri Tani, the first segment of the event will focus on imparting fundamental knowledge about rice. Participants will gain insights into the production processes, regional varieties, and the journey rice takes from the farm to the table. This will be complemented by a hands-on experience that allows families to engage in rice tasting, comparing the aroma, sweetness, and texture of four different rice types. It's an immersive program that allows families to see, touch, and taste their way through the world of rice.

About Riri Tani:
Riri Tani is an acclaimed researcher and journalist connecting people to the value of rice. An advocate for good eating practices, she is also a certified rice sommelier, sharing her expertise across various platforms including television, newspapers, and at events organized by the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries. Riri holds a PhD from Tokyo University of Agriculture and is a graduate of Keio University. Her published works delve into the narratives surrounding rice and farming practices in Japan, including her notable titles like ‘The Stories of Rice and Farmers’ and ‘Learning Sustainable Practices in Rice Farming.’

2. Cultural Exploration Tour of Plenus’ Office
The second part of the event includes a tour featuring two main attractions:
- Mural of the Four Seasons of Terraced Rice Fields: This impressive mural spanning the atrium between the 7th and 8th floors embodies the four seasons through traditional Japanese ink paintings, allowing viewers to appreciate the beauty of these landscapes from different perspectives.
- Kayabacho Aozora Rice Field: Located on the rooftop, this urban rice field serves as a living classroom for children, providing them a chance to witness the rare blooming of rice flowers for just one week each year. Attendees are encouraged to experience this extraordinary event firsthand, although the blooming is subject to the seasonal conditions.

Additional Information

• - Date: August 8, 2026
• - Location: Plenus Kayabacho Office, 1-7-1 Kayabacho, Nihonbashi, Chūō-ku, Tokyo, Japan (Reception on 5th Floor)
• - Cost: Free
• - Participants: Limited to 15 families per session, totaling 30 individuals
• - Registration: Interested families can register via the webpage provided, with confirmations sent within three business days.
• - Closing Date for Applications: August 7, 2026 or until spots are filled.

Plenus is committed to preserving Japan's rice culture and sharing its significance with future generations. By engaging families in meaningful educational experiences, the company hopes to ensure that the rich traditions surrounding rice are not only maintained but celebrated.

For more information and to register, visit the official event page and explore further details about Plenus' rice culture initiatives on their website or their social media pages.

This event stands as a testament to Plenus' dedication to cultural education, providing families an opportunity to bond over this essential aspect of Japanese heritage.