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Happo-en Group and Mitake Town's Collaborative Agreement for Community Development

On December 19, 2025, the Happo-en Group officially signed a partnership agreement with Mitake Town in Gifu Prefecture. The agreement aims to broaden the community connection and engagement through the promotion of local specialty products and the development of new offerings that incorporate these items. With this collaborative effort, both parties seek to leverage their respective resources and expertise to invigorate the local economy and enhance community interaction.

Objectives of the Agreement

The core purpose of this agreement is to stimulate the local economy by creating new specialty products that actively utilize local resources. This initiative is not only focused on product development but also aims to foster stronger relationships among local residents, businesses, and visitors. The specific points of cooperation outlined in the agreement include:
1. Expansion of engagement and connections through local specialties.
2. Strengthening production frameworks for the Mitake no Eemon project, which is vital for maintaining local business continuity.
3. Enhancing content related to local resources like the Nakasendo Road and Gengouji Temple to attract more tourists.
4. Developing promotional strategies designed to increase visitor numbers to Mitake Town.
5. Exploring additional necessary measures to achieve the primary goals set forth in the agreement.

About Mitake no Eemon

The Mitake no Eemon is a certification system established in 2012 that recognizes exceptional products representative of Mitake Town's rich history, nature, and traditions. These certified items embody the essence of local pride and cultural heritage, showcasing the town's dedication to preserving its unique identity and community spirit.

For more details on the Mitake no Eemon program, check the official Mitake Town website: Mitake Town.

Previous Initiatives with Mitake Town

In February 2025, the Happo-en Group conducted a free tasting event titled “A Day to Taste Mitake” at the Ontake Juku Waiwai Kan, aimed at promoting Mitake no Eemon products. This event, orchestrated by Happo-en and supported by Mitake Town, showcased unique dishes developed by Happo-en chefs, highlighting the culinary potential of local specialties. This interaction not only provided an opportunity for local residents to experience the flavors of their heritage but also encouraged a sense of community by allowing people to engage directly with the producers behind these remarkable items.

Future Plans

Looking ahead, Happo-en plans to continue organizing events and developing new culinary offerings to raise awareness of the Mitake no Eemon initiative. These efforts are designed to bolster production capabilities and support systems while creating more opportunities for community engagement. By utilizing local resources, Happo-en aims to enhance the connection between Mitake Town and its visitors, ultimately expanding both the inflow of new residents and the overall local economy.

About Happo-en

Happo-en is a comprehensive production company based in Shirokanedai, Tokyo, known for its expansive Japanese garden that embodies traditional aesthetics and cultural principles. The company specializes in wedding and banquet services, hosts international conferences, and engages in various community promotion and restaurant operations. Their mission, “Beautiful Japan,” reflects their dedication to showcasing the nation’s charms to a global audience. For more information about Happo-en, visit their website: Happo-en.