Experience the Farmers Harvest Festival in Yamagata City, Gifu!

Nestled in the beautiful Yamagata City of Gifu Prefecture, a thrilling harvest experience awaits you at the 'Sasutenan Farm' on November 8, 2025. This event, titled 'Sasutenan Farm Harvest Festival: Watercress, American BBQ, and Local Flavor Garden Party', is a wonderful initiative by Pony Canyon and Ogaki Kyoritsu Bank aimed at promoting the city's charm.

Event Overview

As part of an ongoing city promotion project, Pony Canyon, based in Minato-ku, Tokyo, in collaboration with Ogaki Kyoritsu Bank, is highlighting various facets of Yamagata City. This year marks the second year of their efforts, and the upcoming festival represents a significant attempt to engage the community and attract visitors from outside the city.

The Unique Experience

The event is set to take place at the renowned Sasutenan Farm, which is operated by Kuniaki Matsumoto, a former producer for Nagoya Television. After retiring from media, Matsumoto transformed abandoned farmland in Nagataki, Yamagata City, into a flourishing organic farm, specializing in watercress cultivation. This rich background promises attendees valuable insights into sustainable agriculture and delicious local flavors.

Participants will not only have the chance to harvest watercress but also enjoy an impressive menu including salads made from the harvested greens. Collaborating with upcoming local chef Yuto Noguchi from 'Spice Tavern Midono Shoten', participants will indulge in mouthwatering American BBQ and dishes made from local ingredients, ensuring a delightful experience for food lovers.

Event Schedule

Here's what the day will look like:

- 9:30 AM: Registration opens
- 10:00 AM: Watercress picking experience with a lecture by Matsumoto
- 11:00 AM: Optional persimmon picking
- 12:30 PM: Begin the garden party featuring:

- American BBQ
- Creative local dishes
- Smoked ham, spice dishes
- Herbal teas and wines for those who wish to indulge

- 1:30 PM: Introduction to Yamagata City and a community exchange
- 3:00 PM: Event concludes

Pricing and Participation

The 'Sasutenan Farm Harvest Festival' offers a unique opportunity to experience the agricultural roots of the region at an affordable price:

- Adults: ¥3,500
- Middle School Students: ¥1,500
- Children under Elementary School: ¥1,000
- Alcohol Add-On for Adults: ¥500 (paid on-site)

Limited Spots Available: Only 10-20 participants will be accepted, so be sure to register early to secure your place!

How to Register

Interested in attending? Sign up through the following link: Registration Form

About the Organizers

Kuniaki Matsumoto: Owner of Sasutenan Farm, a former TV producer who has now dedicated his life to farming, transforming barren lands into lush green fields.
Yuto Noguchi and Yuta Wakai: Both chefs from the upcoming Spice Tavern, specializing in incorporating local flavors into their dishes.

Future Events

This harvest festival is just the beginning. More experiential events are planned to further showcase the hidden gems of Yamagata City, enhancing community engagement and tourism.

For more information about Yamagata City and upcoming events, visit the official website: Yamagata City Official Page.

For inquiries, contact Moriyama from Pony Canyon at [email protected] or call Yamagata City’s Planning and Finance Division at 0581-22-6825 for further assistance.