#Japan #Shizuoka #Japanese Culinary #Material Tournament #Ichi Event

Nationwide Celebration of Local Ingredients: "Ichi - The Japanese Material Tournament"

In May 2026, a groundbreaking project focusing on Japan’s rich agricultural heritage and regional resources will kick off in Shizuoka. Organized by the Future Town Planning Organization and managed by COMMON Co., Ltd., this initiative aims to redefine the context and value of primary industries across Japan. The project, titled "Ichi: The Japanese Material Tournament," aims to create sustainable local circulations by connecting producers and consumers.

This initiative will feature monthly events across various prefectures, culminating in a national finals event in Osaka scheduled for March 2027. Currently, the organizers are seeking sponsorship and partnerships from local governments, businesses, and organizations aligned with its objectives. Interested parties can find more information on the event's dedicated webpage.

Revitalizing Local Food Culture

The ethos of “Ichi” embodies the essential role of good quality ingredients, highlighted by the ubiquitous Japanese chopsticks. The project underscores the significance of authentic regional products while enhancing their visibility through cooperative promotion. It will serve as a platform to celebrate the agricultural diversity and high-quality produce representative of Japan’s food culture.

Past events have shown great success in promoting local products, as exemplified during last year’s Osaka Kansai Expo, where food trucks collaborated with local municipalities to boost culinary experiences.

During the event days, a massive K-Pop dance contest called “Dream Gate” will be held in collaboration with the food festival, tying dance and local culture together to foster community engagement. Prior to the festival, workshops titled “Commons Connect” will take place to encourage dialogue among municipalities, businesses, and local communities, promoting a more collaborative approach to regional development.

Why Focus on Ingredients Now?

Japan possesses exceptional quality and diversity within its agricultural, livestock, fishery, and forestry sectors. However, many regions face pressing challenges, such as a shortage of skilled workers, shrinking local economies, and the difficulty in connecting high-quality food products with consumers.

The Japanese Material Tournament aims to address these issues by emphasizing the intrinsic value of raw ingredients and the stories of local producers. The initiative strives to reinstate regional pride and foster meaningful economic cycles by showcasing authentic products without relying on unnecessary processing.

Concept: Pure Flavors Without Additives

The event’s primary focus will be on natural flavors derived from local ingredients, prepared using only natural salt and simple cooking techniques such as steaming, baking, and frying. This commitment eliminates the use of artificial flavorings or additives, allowing attendees to experience the true essence of the ingredients and their stories directly.

This goes beyond a mere culinary event; it is a socio-cultural project designed to convey Japan’s food philosophy to future generations.

Event Structure: Representative Regions Showcase

The event will feature a main area where selected representatives from 47 prefectures will showcase their regional products. Attendees will have the opportunity to taste seasonal ingredients prepared with only salt, engaging all their senses in the process.

Activities include:

• - Salt Tasting Lab: Compare various local salts and learn about their types, origins, and production methods.
• - Producer Talks & Workshops: Direct discussions with farmers, fishermen, and chefs about what makes their products exceptional.
• - Food Education for Kids: Interactive booths teaching children about flavors and healthy eating.
• - Stage Events: Raffle drawing featuring local products and appearances by regional mascots.

The event anticipates gathering around 20 representative regions at each location, providing a dynamic atmosphere filled with learning and engagement.

Pre-Event: Commons Connect

Before the main event, „Commons Connect” meetings will facilitate exchanges among representatives from various sectors, including local government, businesses, and community organizations. These gatherings aim to identify regional issues and share successes and setbacks openly, fostering collaboration and creating new opportunities for development.

Collaboration with Dream Gate K-Pop Contest

In a unique synergy, the event expects to incorporate aspects of the Dream Gate K-Pop competition, utilizing the universal language of dance to unite participants across Japan.

This programming not only serves to engage younger generations but also highlights local talents and encourages a spirit of challenge and ambition, inspiring participants in their pursuits.

The Importance of Municipal and Corporate Support

The involvement of local governments and tourism organizations is crucial for this initiative, aiding in promoting regional products and advocating for city promotion. This multifaceted project seeks to elevate local goods and encourage a shift towards continuous regional branding.

Benefits for Sponsorship and Support

Corporations involved in the project will benefit from continuous brand exposure at multiple locations nationwide while contributing positively to societal goals aligned with SDGs and ESG practices. By engaging with local producers and fostering new business opportunities, they position themselves as partners in value creation.

This initiative promises to not only highlight Japan's culinary excellence but also build sustainable networks that will benefit local communities long-term.

Call for Partnerships

The organizers welcome companies and local governments interested in sponsorship and collaboration. Those who resonate with the aims of this initiative are invited to reach out for partnerships that can amplify the impact of this crucial movement for local communities.