#Japan #Tokyo #Kagome #Well-Farming #Agricultural Therapy

Kagome Launches Well-Farming Field Project in Setagaya

Kagome Corporation, led by President Harunobu Okutani and based in Nagoya, Aichi Prefecture, has embarked on an innovative venture aimed at promoting well-being through agricultural and culinary experiences. As part of its vision for 2035, the company has outlined a proactive approach to cultivate new value areas focusing on the connections between agriculture and food. This is encapsulated in the newly introduced 'Well-Farming Field' initiative, which will officially commence operations in April 2026.

The Essence of the Well-Farming Field

The 'Well-Farming Field' project aims to merge Kagome's extensive expertise in vegetables, cultivation practices, and health with horticultural therapy and agritherapy concepts. This fusion will provide a series of experiences designed to enhance physical and mental health through agriculture and food.

Kagome's initiative is modeled after the successful 'Kagome Vegetable Life Farm' located in Fujimi Town, Nagano Prefecture. The aim is to expand agricultural experiences conducted at this site to a satellite location in Setagaya, Tokyo, catering to a diverse array of stakeholders, including office workers, corporations, and research institutions.

The first phase, 'Kagome Vegetable Life Farm Satellite Field @Setagaya,' is set to kick off at 'Agris Seijo,' a rental farm in Setagaya Ward. This initiative will serve primarily corporate entities and organizations, offering hands-on experiences in growing, creating, and consuming vegetables, thereby fostering wellness and interpersonal connections in the process.

Focus on Health and Collaboration

In its inaugural year, 2026, Kagome will collaborate with participating businesses and universities to evaluate the effectiveness of its agricultural and food-centric experiences in enhancing communication and engagement among teams. With a mission to 'create a cycle that enriches both people and nature,' Kagome aims to inspire enhanced connections between humans and the environment through interactive experiences that involve nurturing and consuming food.

The social importance of well-being continues to grow, particularly in Japan, as the definition expands to encompass not just physical health but also mental wellness and social connectivity. Kagome has long championed the deliciousness and nutritional value of vegetables, focusing on how cultivating these foods enriches personal well-being while connecting communities.

As part of its commitment to well-being, Kagome envisions leading technological innovations from farming to culinary practices and has been recognized with the Well-Being ISO guidelines based on ISO 25554:2024 for promoting wellness in community settings.

Details of the Setagaya Project

Location and Features

• - Venue: Agris Seijo, Setagaya, Tokyo (5-1-1 Seijo, Setagaya)
• - Access: Just a minute’s walk from Seijogakuenmae Station (Odakyu Line)
• - Start Date: April 2026

Program Offerings

The 'Kagome Vegetable Life Farm Satellite Field @Setagaya' will include:

• - Vegetable cultivation and harvesting activities
• - Visualization of vegetable consumption levels through 'Veggie Check®'
• - Educational workshops and cooking experiences
• - Events aimed at fostering community interaction

Target Participants

The program is designed for:

• - Companies interested in health-oriented management
• - Local governments and research institutions

Companies can expect tailored package options to suit their needs. For instance, a three-month rental of two garden plots (approximately 20 participants), including three experiential sessions, is priced at around ¥390,000.

Emphasizing Team Building and Health

Research highlights the positive impacts of gardening activities on mental health and stress reduction. This insight informs the program, allowing companies to engage employees in a comprehensive experience of 'planting,' 'growing,' and 'harvesting' within designated plots. The initiative allows for practical applications, such as during orientation for new employees or as part of family wellness programs, while providing opportunities for refreshing breaks and enhancing communication.

Additional Offerings

Apart from hands-on experiences, the site will feature sales of Kagome products through its official online store, including exclusive goods from the 'Kagome Vegetable Life Farm.' Furthermore, the implementation of 'Veggie Check®' at the location will foster health communication and awareness about vegetable intake.

Regular participatory events such as vegetable cultivation and educational projects will also be held, engaging both corporate partners and the general public in fun and informative ways. An example includes collaborative activities with casual dining outlets, where discussions around a family-friendly 'Three-Month Agricultural Project' enable participants to engage actively in the food cycle.

In summary, the 'Kagome Vegetable Life Farm Satellite Field @Setagaya' stands as a forward-thinking initiative that not only seeks to improve individual health but also fosters community ties, incorporating agriculture into the heart of well-being strategies. As Kagome continues to innovate in the agricultural and culinary spaces, it aims to make wellness an accessible and enjoyable experience for all.