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The Dry Noodle Grand Prix 2025: A Culinary Celebration

The Japanese Access Corporation, led by CEO Shinya Hattori, has recently initiated a crowdfunding campaign for the upcoming food event, The Dry Noodle Grand Prix 2025 in Tokyo. This collaboration is with the National Dry Noodle Cooperative Association, aiming to highlight the unique charm of dry noodles from April 14, 2025. The campaign, which runs until May 18, 2025, seeks to raise 300,000 yen to ensure the event is not only successful but also free for attendees.

About the Crowdfunding Campaign

The crowdfunding campaign operates on READYFOR, allowing supporters to contribute various amounts, with exciting rewards:

• - 500 yen: Recognition on the event website.
• - 1,000 yen: A thank-you email.
• - 3,000 yen: A gift set of dry noodle products along with front-row tickets for the talk show.
• - 10,000 yen: A gift set of dry noodles along with limited-edition signed merchandise by DEEN’s Ikemori.

The funds collected will be allocated primarily towards covering event operational costs, including free admission, production of recipe booklets for attendees, and preparation costs for the rewards.

Background and Importance

Since 2017, Japanese Access has held the Dry Noodle Grand Prix, an event designed to showcase the deliciousness of dry noodles to a wider audience. Despite setbacks such as the pandemic, the event successfully attracted 14,000 attendees in its fifth edition in 2024, re-establishing its importance in the culinary calendar.

This funding initiative arises against the backdrop of significant challenges facing the dry noodle industry, including rising raw material costs, declining production, and labor shortages. By promoting the culinary applications and enjoyment of dry noodles, the aim is to revitalize the industry and engage various generations in this long-standing tradition, creating a simultaneous opportunity for connection through food.

The Event Details

Scheduled for May 17 and 18, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM at the Komazawa Olympic Park in Setagaya, Tokyo, the event will not charge admission fees, ensuring accessibility. Food ticket sales will conclude at 5:00 PM, with food service available until 5:30 PM.

Token payments can be made for dry noodle dishes via a ticket system or through PayPay, making it convenient for visitors to enjoy a variety of offerings from local vendors.

This year's event will be coordinated by the National Dry Noodle Cooperative Association, with support from Japan's Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, and cooperation from the Hyogo Prefecture Hand-Stretched Noodles Association, showcasing a collaborative effort across the industry.

Participating companies include renowned brands such as Nisshin Seifun Group, Kagome, and such producers as Ikebana Noodles and Goto Hand-Stretched Udon Promotion Council—culminating in a vibrant showcase representing 41 different establishments.

As the crowdfunding campaign progresses, Japanese Access hopes to not only promote dry noodles but to foster a sense of community and encourage a culture of appreciation for this staple food. By inspiring more individuals to participate in the event and embrace the culinary potential of dry noodles, the initiative looks to ensure that these traditional foods resonate with future generations, further embedding their legacy in Japan's culinary heritage.

For more information or to support the crowdfunding initiative, visit READYFOR campaign and check out the event's dedicated site at Dry Noodle Grand Prix Special Site.