#Japan #ABC Cooking Studio #Tomioka City #Food Culture #Tomioka

A Flavorful Partnership for Revitalization

On April 9, 2025, ABC Cooking Studio, one of the largest cooking schools in Japan and Asia, entered into a collaboration agreement with Tomioka City, Gunma Prefecture. This partnership aims to enhance local food products, expand their market reach, and promote tourism leveraging the area's unique culinary treasures.

The Significance of the Agreement

The collaboration with Tomioka City is significant not just for the promotion of local delicacies, but also for strengthening the brand image of the city known for its cultural heritage. The agreement will tap into local ingredients, such as those associated with the Takasaki silk reeling industry, and highlight the culinary arts influenced by both Japanese traditions and international practices. Narumi Shimura, the CEO of ABC Cooking Studio, expressed commitment to the sustainable development of the region through various initiatives.

CEO Narumi Shimura's Vision

Shimura remarked, "ABC is dedicated to boosting Tomioka's tourism and local economy. Our efforts will focus on connecting the city's culinary charm with its historical roots, enabling future generations to inherit and sustain this rich culture."

Deeper Engagement through Human Resource Exchange

Another pivotal part of this partnership is the human resource exchange program. By dispatching trained personnel from ABC Cooking Studio to Tomioka, the initiative seeks to invigorate local activities, including events and seasonal festivals. This collaboration envisions creating a vibrant environment not just centered on food, but encompassing the overall community experience. The plan involves utilizing noteworthy tourist attractions such as the World Heritage site, Tomioka Silk Mill, and the iconic Mount Myogi.

Commitment to Sustainable Growth

ABC Cooking Studio has laid out a comprehensive strategy under this cooperative framework:

• - Brand Promotion: Develop local branding initiatives that showcase Tomioka's storied culinary traditions.
• - Boosting Specialty Products: Utilize local ingredients within ABC's cooking classes and programs, thereby enhancing their desirability.
• - Culinary Education: Foster educational programs that emphasize the importance of local food customs and ethical sourcing.
• - Event Hosting: Facilitate a variety of community events to encourage local participation and engagement.
• - Information Dissemination: Promote awareness about Tomioka’s culinary landscape and culture through effective marketing channels.

Local Leaders’ Perspectives

Mayor Yoshinobu Enomoto of Tomioka City expressed his enthusiasm for the collaboration. He stated, "We are thrilled to partner with a renowned institution like ABC Cooking Studio, known for sharing the joy of food across Japan and internationally. We believe this partnership will greatly enhance the visibility of our unique food culture."

A Bright Future Ahead

As ABC Cooking Studio and Tomioka City join hands, the path ahead looks promising for both the local economy and the cultural landscape. This partnership not only underscores the importance of food in community identity but also sets a framework for how culinary arts can foster tourism and economic development. The city hopes to be a vibrant hub of culinary excellence, engaging visitors and locals alike in a celebration of its rich heritage.

With events like the annual “Okirikomi” festival, focusing on Gunma's local cuisine, the partnership is set to make waves in the culinary world, attracting more visitors and showcasing Tomioka’s unique offerings.

Together, ABC Cooking Studio and Tomioka City’s joint venture promises not only to enhance the richness of Japanese cuisine but to cultivate a thriving community dedicated to celebrating food as a central element of cultural heritage.

For more information about ABC Cooking Studio, visit ABC cooking.