#Japan #Okinawa #Churaumi Aquarium #Street Food #Motobu

Introduction

Okinawa's Motobu Town, home to the renowned Churaumi Aquarium, attracts over 3 million visitors annually. However, the tourism experiences are largely centered around the aquarium, limiting the overall economic benefit to the town due to challenges in extending visitor stays or engaging them in local activities. Compounded by an aging population and decreasing numbers of residents, the town faces pressing issues regarding employment and community vitality. In light of these circumstances, the Motobu Town Tourism Association approached students from Toita Women's Junior College and Motobu High School, proposing a project aimed at diversifying tourism and energizing the locality. This collaboration has sparked the creation of a new street food concept that not only aims to promote local flavors but also generates job opportunities.

Background and Objective

The project is aptly titled "Yumejitsugen-bu" (Dream Realization Club), a self-driven endeavor for high school students in Motobu aimed at uncovering their dreams and pursuing them through workshops and collaborative experiences with the community. The underlying goal is to develop creative ideas that will use the strengths of Motobu Town and link them to sustainable community development.

In collaboration with Motobu High School, Toita Women’s Junior College has launched a project focused on street food development that leverages local resources for tourism diversification and job creation. This initiative is both timely and crucial in fostering economic growth beyond the aquarium’s vicinity.

Unique Features of the Project

The project aims to redirect tourists from the aquarium into the town by creating food experiences that encourage extended visits. The team aims to ensure visitors view eating local cuisine as an integral part of their trip rather than an afterthought.

Integrated Learning

Students will participate in 13 days of onsite learning and collaboration with high schoolers, covering everything from recipe development to sales and marketing initiatives. This hands-on involvement allows for a practical learning environment whereby students can gain invaluable insights into the business side of food and tourism.

Industry Collaboration

Local agricultural enterprise Motoplas Inc. will be playing a key role in this initiative. Students will gain direct experience in food production, reinforcing the value of collaboration between the educational sector and local businesses in promoting mutual growth.

Nationwide Outreach through Digital Platforms

Motobu High School and Toita Women’s Junior College have established joint social media accounts to engage a wider audience, share progress, and market their upcoming creations. Monthly strategic meetings via Zoom will ensure that both groups remain aligned on goals and marketing plans.

Impact on the Community

This initiative represents a strong push to engage the youth of Motobu in its revitalization. By working together, university and high school students will not only contribute to the community but also gain transformative skills essential for their future careers in any field.

Growth through Practical Education

The project offers growth opportunities for students, enhancing their adaptability, planning, and marketing skills, and thus shaping them into capable individuals who can support and uplift communities in the future.

Future Vision and Call for Collaboration

This project is slated to run for three years, under the banner "A Shining Town for Women, Motobu!" The team intends to implement innovative tourism strategies, evolving together with Motobu Town to drive sustainable growth.

Currently, we seek collaborators willing to support us with product handling, sales assistance, and promotional activities. Anyone interested in building a bright future for Motobu alongside us is encouraged to contact us to discuss partnership opportunities.

Contact Information

For inquiries, please reach out to:
Toita Women's Junior College
Horie Department
2-21-17 Shiba, Minato, Tokyo, 105-0014
TEL: 03-3452-4161 (Representative)
E-mail: ao@toita.ac.jp
URL: Toita Women's Junior College