#Japan #Kitahiroshima #Culinary Masters #North Hiroshima #Forest Resources

A Unique Culinary Collaboration in North Hiroshima Town

North Hiroshima Town is embarking on an unprecedented initiative to combine its forest resources with the culinary arts, through a collaboration with JTB Corporation and the Culinary Masters Club on October 27-28. This event aims to utilize forest environment taxes to enhance local gastronomy, marking a first-of-its-kind endeavor in Japan.

Dining in the Forest

On October 27, the event "Dining in the Forest" will take place at the French restaurant "Éditer" in North Hiroshima. The Culinary Masters Club has organized this exclusive dinner featuring award-winning chefs who together will highlight local forest resources in their dishes. Participating chefs include Seiji Nakado from Hiroshima, Masaya Toyoshima from Yamanashi, and Daisuke Nagano, the host chef from Éditer. They'll create a menu showcasing local delicacies, including mountain vegetables and game meat, paired with unique, non-alcoholic beverages inspired by the forest.

Symposium: Green Masters in North Hiroshima Town

On October 28, the "Green Masters Symposium" will feature three distinguished chefs, known for their expertise in mountain cuisine:

• - Hisao Nakato from "Kusakui Nakahigashi" in Kyoto
• - Masakazu Kitazawa from "Shokunin-kan" in Nagano
• - Hiroaki Tokuyama from "Tokuyama Sushi" in Shiga

These chefs will delve into the potential for utilizing forest resources through culinary practices, drawing on their extensive experience with local ingredients. Attendees will also be offered a special "game rice ball," conceived by masters in the kitchen, utilizing local game and rice.

Objectives of the Initiative

The main goal of this collaboration is to promote local cuisine that highlights the value of forest resources, in order to stimulate tourism and increase community engagement in North Hiroshima Town. This initiative not only seeks to educate attendees about local produce but also aims to inspire a greater appreciation for regional flavors and biodiversity.

About Culinary Masters

The Culinary Masters program, initiated by Japan's Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, recognizes chefs who collaborate with producers to invigorate primary industries. Since its inception in 2010, it has celebrated 117 awardees across 41 prefectures, including two from Hiroshima.

Dining Event Details: "Dining in the Forest"

• - Date: October 27, 2025
• - Time: Doors open at 17:30, Dinner begins at 18:00
• - Location: French restaurant "Éditer" and the on-site lodging facility, RAKUSAN
• - Address: 10636-1 Nagasasa, Kitahiroshima, Hiroshima Prefecture
• - Participation: By invitation
• - Media Coverage: Reporters can apply in advance for attendance.

Event Programming

At the core of this event is a unique dining experience that connects participants with the very essence of North Hiroshima's natural bounty. Attendees can expect a multi-course meal that utilizes seasonal ingredients and eliminates waste, demonstrating the culinary possibilities when chefs connect with their local environment and communities.

Chef Profiles

• - Seiji Nakado: The owner-chef of "NAKADO" in Hiroshima City, he won the Culinary Masters award in 2023. Known for his modern interpretations of traditional cuisine utilizing local seafood and produce, his restaurant has received accolades, including a Michelin star for one of his Osaka establishments.

• - Masaya Toyoshima: Owner-chef of "Restaurant SAI 燊" in Yamanashi, also awarded in 2023. He’s celebrated for his innovative seasonal dishes that skillfully incorporate ingredients from the Fuji mountain area.

• - Daisuke Nagano: With experience in Michelin-starred restaurants in France and Italy, he embraces a philosophy of using local ingredients, providing a delightful French dining experience at "Éditer".

Special Features

To enhance the culinary experience, dining will include original non-alcoholic beverages made from forest resources. Please note that menu items are subject to change based on availability.

Green Masters Symposium Is a Unique Opportunity

This symposium will showcase the profound relevance of forestry in culinary traditions, emphasizing North Hiroshima's commitment to fostering dialogue about sustainable practices in food sourcing and tourism. By participating in this gathering, you will contribute to a richer understanding of the connections between food, environment, and community engagement.

Feel free to reach out to the organizers for inquiries or to participate in this innovative endeavor, which promises to not only elevate local cuisine but also deepen our connection with nature.