Celebrate Kumamoto at KUMA-LINK Event
On December 10, 2025, the Kumamoto Prefectural Government will host a unique event titled "KUMA-LINK - Connecting What We Love: My Kumamoto Time". This occasion aims to create and expand connections among people through Kumamoto's rich food, culture, and community involvement. The event will take place at My Shokudo Hall & Kitchen, located in Chiyoda, Tokyo.
Event Details
- - Event Name: KUMA-LINK - Connecting What We Love: My Kumamoto Time
- - Date: December 10, 2025 (Wednesday) 19:00 - 21:00
- - Location: My Shokudo Hall & Kitchen, Otemachi, Chiyoda, Tokyo
- - Capacity: In-person: 50 participants (Application deadline: December 4)
Online: 50 participants (for talk segments only) (Application deadline: Same day)
- - Entry Fee: In-person: ¥1,000 (includes refreshments)
Online: Free
1. Guest Talk by Masahiro Horiguchi and Akane Sakanoue
2. Cross Talk with guests related to Kumamoto and discussions on migration and community involvement
3. Kumamoto Quiz Competition
4. Networking session featuring light snacks made from local products
KUMA-LINK promises to be a vibrant event highlighting the beauty of Kumamoto, through engaging discussions led by Masahiro Horiguchi, producer of the local lifestyle magazine "TURNS", and Akane Sakanoue, an actress and talent from Kumamoto. The event is designed to feel the allure of Kumamoto while facilitating meaningful connections among participants. Both in-person and online formats will allow guests to enjoy fresh local cuisine and relevant discussions.
Highlights of the Event
POINT 1: Taste the Flavors of Kumamoto
Participants will enjoy light meals prepared with fresh ingredients sourced from Kumamoto. This culinary experience will serve as an excellent opportunity to appreciate the flavors that the rich natural environment of Kumamoto offers.
POINT 2: Insights into Living and Working in Kumamoto
This segment will spotlight the experiences of women actively contributing to their communities and balancing work-life dynamics. They will share relatable stories in a cross-talk format, reflecting on their lifestyles in the region.
POINT 3: Engaging and Fun Quiz Competition
Participants can enjoy a quiz centered around Kumamoto's history and culinary culture. This lively event will encourage interaction, with exciting prizes awaiting the quiz champions.
What You Can Experience at KUMA-LINK
- - Get inspired by the real-life stories of women living and working in rural areas.
- - Discover new ways to connect with regions—beyond just travel or relocation.
- - Experience the latest attractions and cultural richness that Kumamoto has to offer.
- - Gain insights on how to leverage local resources for a fulfilling personal and professional life.
Who Should Attend?
- - Those interested in rural living and working styles.
- - Individuals seeking deeper connections with regions beyond tourism.
- - Anyone wishing to learn more about Kumamoto Prefecture.
- - Culinary enthusiasts curious about regional food cultures.
- - Those eager to meet new people and explore alternative lifestyles.
Meet Our Special Guests
- - Akane Sakanoue - Kumamoto's goodwill ambassador and a talented actor, known for her roles in popular TV dramas and variety shows. She combines her advocacy for Kumamoto with her passion for entertainment, creating a bridge between her roots and her career.
- - Yoko Sato, representative of the hostel "HIKE" from Tamana City. Yoko's journey includes a global adventure across 37 countries, leading her back home to establish a space that connects travelers and the local community.
- - Ai Takesue, a former officer of the community revitalization team from Ashikita Town, who started her journey in advertising and now supports local businesses while running her own entrepreneurial ventures.
- - ALLY, a Creative Director at NEON GREEN Co. with a diverse background in editorial and branding, balancing work between Tokyo and Kumamoto as she molds creative strategies.
- - Tomoko Matsuda, a former newscaster passionate about Kumamoto's attractions, is now a reporter who shares her love for the region through various media channels.
This unique event is a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in the charm of Kumamoto and connect with others who share a love for this beautiful region. Don’t miss this chance to experience Kumamoto’s culinary delights, stories of community engagement, and potential networking opportunities. Register now to secure your spot at KUMA-LINK!