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Understanding Rice Production: An Educational Workshop

On February 23, 2026, Pal System Yamanashi Nagano is set to host an insightful workshop titled "Let's Learn About Rice!" at its Kaik Center in Kofu City, Yamanashi Prefecture. The event is scheduled from 10:30 AM to 12:30 PM and aims to educate families about local rice production and sustainable practices.

The workshop will feature Jun Iijima, the CEO of Yoshijiya Rice Store, a storied rice wholesaler with roots dating back to the Warring States period in 1567. Established in 1889, Yoshijiya has become a crucial player in the rice supply industry, engaging in initiatives to reduce fallow rice fields and improve productivity through active consultation for farmers.

Promoting Local Rice and Sustainable Practices

The focus of the event is to discuss the current state of rice production in Yamanashi, alongside the potential benefits of rice flour as a solution for restoring idle farmlands. With a commitment to maximizing the use of high-quality Yamanashi-grown rice, Yoshijiya is also dedicated to spreading the word about rice flour, leveraging cutting-edge milling technology to create this versatile ingredient.

Families attending will be educated on practical ways to incorporate rice flour into their daily diets, inspiring them to support sustainable rice production. The goal is not just to inform, but to empower consumers to appreciate and engage in environmentally-friendly practices regarding rice consumption.

Hands-On Educational Experience for Kids

Moreover, the workshop will invite children from participating families to take part in an engaging cooking session. While parents listen to informative talks, a certified instructor will lead a class on making rice burgers, allowing children to craft their own snacks using rice. This hands-on experience not only exposes them to various ways of using rice but also nurtures a connection with the ingredient itself.

The prepared rice burgers will then be enjoyed together with parents, providing an opportunity for families to reflect on the significance of sustainable rice consumption in the future.

Event Details

• - Date: February 23, 2026
• - Time: 10:30 AM - 12:30 PM
• - Location: Pal System Yamanashi Nagano, Kaik Center, 3590-1 Shimoimai, Kofu City, Yamanashi
• - Participants: 12 families, totaling 24 individuals from Pal System Yamanashi Nagano

Pal System Yamanashi is deeply committed to fostering a sustainable approach to food production among its members. The cooperative seeks to continually work with consumers to explore practical steps individuals can take to support eco-friendly practices in their daily lives.

About Pal System Yamanashi Nagano

Based in Kofu City, Pal System Yamanashi Nagano is a cooperative organization led by Chairperson Shigeko Furuke, boasting a total membership of approximately 59,000 individuals. With a significant investment in sustainable agriculture and a commitment to education, the cooperative aims to be a model for responsible consumption in the region. As of March 2025, the cooperative's total business revenue reached 8.23 billion yen, following a progressive trend aimed at benefiting the local community.

In addition, the parent organization, Pal System Co., operates under a combined revenue of 2.604 trillion yen by March 2025, encompassing various member cooperatives across Japan.

By hosting workshops like "Let's Learn About Rice!", Pal System Yamanashi Nagano continues to lay the groundwork for a future where rice production is sustainable and celebrated as a culinary staple. Through education and hands-on activities, they inspire local families to embrace sustainable practices and honor the tradition of rice production in Japan.