#Japan #Fukuoka #Kyushu University #Borsch? #唐津Farm&Food

Student Group Borsch? Impresses at Kyudai Festival

Kyushu University hosted its much-anticipated festival, the Kyudai Festival, featuring an exciting collaboration between students and local producers. One standout participant was the student organization known as Borsch?, which attracted significant crowds with their authentic borscht.

The festival took place on November 1st and 2nd, 2025, and Borsch? successfully sold 400 servings of this delightful Ukrainian soup, capturing the hearts—and taste buds—of festival-goers. The event was not only a culinary success but also a platform for fostering connections between students and the local agricultural community.

In collaboration with 唐津Farm&Food, a local NPO based in Karatsu City, Borsch? incorporated beet powder sourced from Yokomakura Farm into their borscht, enhancing its authenticity and flavor. This partnership emerged from a shared commitment to highlight local agricultural resources while introducing traditional Ukrainian cuisine to a broader audience. The communal spirit was evident as students engaged with visitors, sharing their insights and cultivating interest in both Ukrainian culture and local produce.

A Culinary Journey with Borscht

The borscht served by Borsch? was praised for its exceptional taste, with festival attendees expressing their enthusiasm:
"This isn’t just food for a school festival; it tastes like a restaurant dish!"
"I wish this was served in the cafeteria!"
"I came back for seconds!"
"I want to support Ukraine!"
Such feedback reflects the high quality of the dish and the passion the students put into preparing it.

Throughout the festival, Borsch? also organized fundraising activities to support Ukraine, further engaging the audience in a meaningful way. Many attendees contributed to the cause, reflecting the strong community spirit and shared values surrounding this culinary initiative.

Promoting Local Produce

In addition to the borscht, Borsch? sold beet powder from Yokomakura Farm, located in the town of Ochi in Karatsu City. This collaboration stemmed from the agricultural volunteer work undertaken by some Kyushu University students at the farm, which helped foster a deeper understanding of the local agricultural landscape.

During the event, many visitors expressed newfound interest in using beet powder in their cooking. This reflects a growing recognition of the importance of local agriculture and sustainable food practices. The interaction between Borsch? and the Yokomakura Farm highlighted not only the nutritional benefits of beets but also the ongoing biodiversity efforts in the region, such as in the Yokomakura Natural Coexistence Area, which is a pioneering initiative in agricultural sustainability within Saga Prefecture.

A New Model of Collaboration

The collaboration between Borsch?, local agriculture, and 唐津Farm&Food exemplifies a new model of co-creation. The synergy between these three components—the agricultural resources from Yokomakura Farm, the innovative spirit of Kyushu University's students, and the educational and community initiatives of 唐津Farm&Food—has led to a successful program that inspires others to connect with their local environments.

Borsch? shared their gratitude for the overwhelming support they received during the festival, stating, "We sold 400 servings over the two days and were able to share a taste of Ukraine with so many people. We will continue promoting Ukrainian culture and our initiatives in the future."

Looking Ahead

The success of Borsch? at the Kyudai Festival marks a significant moment in student-led initiatives and reinforces the value of community connections.
Both Borsch? and 唐津Farm&Food plan to continue their partnership, nurturing the relationship between students and local farmers while introducing vibrant cultural experiences to the community. As they pave the way for future projects, their efforts will undoubtedly contribute to fostering a more connected and environmentally aware society.

To learn more about Borsch? and their mission, follow them on Instagram Here or watch their journey on YouTube Here. For more details about 唐津Farm&Food, visit their website Here.