The Exciting Launch of 'THE NIIGATA: Meet the People' Series in Tokyo

THE NIIGATA: Meet the People Series

The vibrant city of Tokyo is now playing host to a unique event series aimed at connecting the capital with the rich culture and people of Niigata. The event, titled 'THE NIIGATA: Meet the People', is designed to spotlight local talents, share regional stories, and foster connections through a series of engaging activities held at the Ginza Niigata Information Center. This initiative is not just about showcasing goods, but rather focuses on unveiling the fascinating narratives and characters from Niigata that make the region compelling.

Overview of the Series

The series kicked off on June 13, 2023, with its first event featuring Jun, a talented musician from Tokamachi City in Niigata, who is currently pursuing higher education in Tokyo. The acoustic live performance attracted 42 participants who came together to enjoy a lively evening filled with music and conversation. Jun’s performance was a resounding success, setting a high bar for the following events.

Upcoming Events

The series promises an exciting lineup as it progresses into future events:

Vol. 2: July 5, 2023

Live Performance and Talk with Kiyomasa Tokita
Discover the world of the newest musical instrument, the handpan. Kiyomasa Tokita, a craftsman who moved to Tsubame City, Niigata, will showcase his homemade handpan and engage the audience with captivating stories about his craft and life in Niigata.

Vol. 3: July 9, 2023

Collaborative Event with 'Otetutabi'
Join a meet-up where participants can interact with the local community through a service called Otetutabi. Attendees will have the chance to meet local coordinators and discover the hidden beauty and opportunities that Niigata has to offer.

Vol. 4: July 10, 2023

Collaborative Project with 'Autabi'
This event brings together engaging local figures like Yusuke Otake, organizer of The Beer Exhibition, to share their experiences. Attendees will also hear from brewers from local companies, fostering a deeper understanding of Niigata’s rich beer culture.

Vol. 5: August 23, 2023

Podcast Live Recording with Dig Trio
The cultural trio Dig Trio will conduct a live recording session of their podcast, sharing stories from their journey in Niigata, alongside a documentary short film screening.

Vol. 6: August 30, 2023

Culinary Event Featuring Thai Cuisine and sake
Enjoy a fusion of flavors at this collaboration event. Thai culinary expert Mie Yoshitake will present a delicious menu featuring Tsubame pork paired with local Niigata sake, highlighting the region's culinary richness.

Objective of the Series

The overarching goal of 'THE NIIGATA: Meet the People' series is to ignite curiosity about Niigata not only as a place to visit but as a destination worth exploring through its people. By moving beyond merely selling products to sharing the stories behind them, the series aims to instigate a desire among the attendees to visit and engage with Niigata’s communities.

This initiative represents a bridge connecting the urban vibe of Tokyo with the rustic charm of Niigata, creating a space where exchanges occur, and meaningful connections take shape. The series aspires to cultivate a sense of belonging and interest in Niigata, encouraging individuals to want to meet its residents, experience its culture, and even consider living there.

Invitation for Media Coverage

We invite media professionals to cover this series, as it serves as a platform where urban and rural intersections happen. Your support can help amplify the stories and interactions that emerge, contributing to the chemistry of shared experiences between Niigata and Tokyo.

For the latest updates and detailed information about the upcoming events, please visit THE NIIGATA Official Website.