#Japan #Yamagata #JA Town #Akimoto Manatsu #Obanazawa Watermelon

Akimoto Manatsu Harvests Obanazawa Watermelon in Yamagata

This summer, popular talent Akimoto Manatsu visited Yamagata Prefecture to experience the delight of harvesting Obanazawa watermelon, renowned for its exceptional sweetness and satisfying crunch. This adventure was part of her YouTube series, 'Yurufuwa Time,' where she explores the beauty of Japanese agriculture and cuisine in collaboration with JA Town, a direct-to-consumer online marketplace operated by the National Federation of Agricultural Cooperative Associations (JA ZENNO).

The episode aired on August 1st at 6 PM and featured Akimoto trying her hand at harvesting these impressive watermelons, which can weigh up to 10 kg each. Obanazawa watermelons thrive in the region's unique climate, characterized by significant temperature differences between day and night, combined with the meticulous cultivation techniques employed by local farmers, which contribute to their high sugar content and delightful taste.

During her visit, Akimoto savored the refreshing sweetness and heartrending crunch of the Obanazawa watermelon. She also had the opportunity to learn about the cultivation process from the producers, gaining insights into how these watermelons are nurtured before reaching the consumers. Her journey included a stop at the West Yamagata Watermelon Sorting Facility at JA Michinoku Murayama, further enriching her understanding of the agricultural supply chain.

The YouTube program 'Yurufuwa Time' aims to make Japanese food and agriculture more accessible to people of all ages. Each episode transports viewers into the world of farming and the various delicious products available through JA Town. The program is hosted by Akimoto Manatsu, who delivers engaging content that highlights the joy of food and farming in a casual and inviting manner.

For viewers eager to explore more of the featured products, there’s a dedicated section on the JA Town website where they can discover a range of watermelon varieties, along with other seasonal produce. This includes a special focus on the Obanazawa watermelon that Akimoto harvested. The episode can be viewed here.

In addition to the delicious offerings, JA Town is committed to delivering fresh products straight from Japanese farms. Their motto, 'Let’s enjoy delicious Japan together,' reflects their dedication to connecting consumers with high-quality agricultural products from across the country. They showcase seasonal items and unique local specialties to encourage a rich culinary experience.

To stay updated, followers of JA Town can check out their official X account for the latest news on seasonal produce and exciting promotional campaigns, ensuring that everyone can partake in the delicious bounty of Japan.

For anyone interested in supporting local farmers and enjoying fresh produce, visiting JA Town is a fantastic way to elevate your culinary adventures and stay connected with the roots of Japanese agriculture.

For more information on JA Town, visit their official website at JA Town, and explore the delightful offerings that await you through their online marketplace.

As Akimoto Manatsu continues to share her journey in the world of food and farming, viewers can look forward to further episodes filled with delicious content and insights into Japan's rich agricultural landscape.