Enhancing Local Appeal: New Collaborative Project in Niigata City
In a progressive move aimed at revitalizing the local economy, Niigata City has partnered with Niigata International University and Red Horse Corporation to implement their second collaboration project. Following the successful launch of the initiative in 2023, this year marks another exciting step towards promoting the unique offerings of the region through the 'N-tive' project, which translates to 'Native' in a creative fusion of the terms 'New', 'Niigata,' and 'Next stage'. The goal of this initiative is to boost interest in regional tax donations by enhancing the appeal of local gifts.
This year, 11 students from Niigata International University were grouped into three teams, each tasked with the challenge of developing interactive gifts that showcase local agricultural products. The students not only explored the craftsmanship behind these offering but also aimed to rediscover and express the underlying value of Niigata's heritage.
Among the innovative offerings underway is a unique experience at New Niigata Airport, dubbed the 'JAL Hometown Tax Donation Limited Experience', which took place on August 24. Participants engaged in various enjoyable activities such as tasting the delectable original amazake developed in collaboration with Minemura Brewery and learned about airline operations through an interactive workshop involving a paper airplane making session.
This experience drew participants to the airport, allowing them to relish an insider's view of the airline industry, typically exclusive to flight attendants. The engaging student participants passionately conveyed their insights about their newly developed gifts and the untapped allure of Niigata, creating a delightful atmosphere for all involved.
Another team focused on creating a novel corn-flavored amazake, seamlessly blending the region's notable rice into a premium beverage suited for all ages. Currently, preparations are underway to list this product as a gift option for regional tax donations, with a minimum contribution of 11,000 yen.
Additionally, another group explored novel frozen rice balls featuring a creative assortment of flavors never seen before, including combinations like strawberry and dry curry, black Shimizu green beans with broth, and tomato with miso. Each of these flavors aims to provide an unexpected twist to traditional rice delicacies, and they, too, are undergoing final checks before becoming available as unique gifts.
The journey of this project is not solely about product development. Participating students expressed their newfound understanding of communicating the lesser-known attractions of Niigata City. They perceived the need to thoroughly explore various perspectives while continuously reflecting on how best to convey their messages, maximizing their outreach to share the rich narrative of their hometown.
The project will wrap up with an outcome presentation for stakeholders in October, where students will report directly to the mayor of Niigata City all their collective achievements and learning experiences. Upon the completion of this year’s project, the groundwork is already being laid for future generations of students to take part in yearly initiatives, ensuring a thriving cycle of creativity and growth.
In conclusion, the venture sets forth not only to enhance local products but also to foster a meaningful dialogue between the academic realm, government, and industry. Red Horse Corporation remains committed to nurturing this collaborative spirit, propelling forward the narrative of Niigata’s unique culture and establishing a vibrant community of ambassadors for the region’s hidden gems.
The Niigata project aims to reveal aspects of this culturally rich city that many have yet to uncover and does so through innovative, hands-on experiences that captivate and educate. As the initiative progresses, it reinforces the importance of collective effort in highlighting and preserving the true essence of what makes Niigata special.
This year, 11 students from Niigata International University were grouped into three teams, each tasked with the challenge of developing interactive gifts that showcase local agricultural products. The students not only explored the craftsmanship behind these offering but also aimed to rediscover and express the underlying value of Niigata's heritage.
Among the innovative offerings underway is a unique experience at New Niigata Airport, dubbed the 'JAL Hometown Tax Donation Limited Experience', which took place on August 24. Participants engaged in various enjoyable activities such as tasting the delectable original amazake developed in collaboration with Minemura Brewery and learned about airline operations through an interactive workshop involving a paper airplane making session.
This experience drew participants to the airport, allowing them to relish an insider's view of the airline industry, typically exclusive to flight attendants. The engaging student participants passionately conveyed their insights about their newly developed gifts and the untapped allure of Niigata, creating a delightful atmosphere for all involved.
Another team focused on creating a novel corn-flavored amazake, seamlessly blending the region's notable rice into a premium beverage suited for all ages. Currently, preparations are underway to list this product as a gift option for regional tax donations, with a minimum contribution of 11,000 yen.
Additionally, another group explored novel frozen rice balls featuring a creative assortment of flavors never seen before, including combinations like strawberry and dry curry, black Shimizu green beans with broth, and tomato with miso. Each of these flavors aims to provide an unexpected twist to traditional rice delicacies, and they, too, are undergoing final checks before becoming available as unique gifts.
The journey of this project is not solely about product development. Participating students expressed their newfound understanding of communicating the lesser-known attractions of Niigata City. They perceived the need to thoroughly explore various perspectives while continuously reflecting on how best to convey their messages, maximizing their outreach to share the rich narrative of their hometown.
The project will wrap up with an outcome presentation for stakeholders in October, where students will report directly to the mayor of Niigata City all their collective achievements and learning experiences. Upon the completion of this year’s project, the groundwork is already being laid for future generations of students to take part in yearly initiatives, ensuring a thriving cycle of creativity and growth.
In conclusion, the venture sets forth not only to enhance local products but also to foster a meaningful dialogue between the academic realm, government, and industry. Red Horse Corporation remains committed to nurturing this collaborative spirit, propelling forward the narrative of Niigata’s unique culture and establishing a vibrant community of ambassadors for the region’s hidden gems.
The Niigata project aims to reveal aspects of this culturally rich city that many have yet to uncover and does so through innovative, hands-on experiences that captivate and educate. As the initiative progresses, it reinforces the importance of collective effort in highlighting and preserving the true essence of what makes Niigata special.
Topics People & Culture）
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