#Japan #Tokyo #Ariake Garden #Calrose Rice #USA Rice

Celebrating the 5th Anniversary of Ariake Garden

From October 24 to November 7, Ariake Garden will host a grand festival to commemorate its fifth anniversary. This year, the festival features Calrose rice, which hails from California, aiming to broaden its recognition and promote Japanese food culture. The USA Rice Federation, which operates the Japan representative office in Virginia, USA, will play an active role in this initiative.

Campaign Overview

During this special event, visitors can enjoy several activities that highlight the versatility of Calrose rice. Shoppers who spend over 6,000 yen at Ariake Garden will receive a complimentary 2kg pack of Calrose rice. Additionally, a designated area will offer tastings of various dishes made with Calrose rice, providing attendees a unique opportunity to experience its flavor profile. Moreover, participating restaurants within the hotel Villa Fontaine Grand Tokyo Ariake will feature specials utilizing Calrose rice, enhancing the culinary experience for guests.

What is Calrose Rice?

Calrose rice is a medium-grain rice variety known for its excellent adaptability and flavor. It falls between the short-grain rice typical in Japan and the long-grain rice varieties found in Thailand. With its slightly chewy texture and neutral flavor, Calrose rice is perfect for various dishes, including fluffy steamed rice, fried rice, risotto, and rice salads. The festival aims to showcase this versatility through sample balls, rice salads, and rice tarts at the tasting stations.

What to Expect at the Festival

1. Free Calrose Rice for Shoppers:
During the festival, customers who provide receipts proving purchases of 6,000 yen or more can claim a special edition 2kg of Calrose rice, packaged to celebrate the fifth anniversary. This offer is available while supplies last, with 1,000 packs distributed each day.

2. Tasting Stations:
Throughout the festival, there will be tasting stations featuring delicious dishes made from Calrose rice. Visitors can sample rice croquettes, rice salads, and rice tarts, all while learning about cooking tips and recipes from USA Rice Federation representatives. Participants can also receive a free recipe book if they sign up for the mailing list.

3. Featured Restaurant Menus:
The hotel Villa Fontaine Grand Tokyo Ariake will run a limited-time menu at its all-day dining restaurant, showcasing dishes made with Calrose rice from October 24 to November 30. Highlights will include seafood paella and rice salad.

A Taste of Cultural Exchange

Ariake Garden serves as a vibrant hub for shopping and enjoyment in Tokyo Bay, with over the years has become a symbol of cultural exchange. As part of the celebrations, the aim is not only to promote Calrose rice but also to celebrate the evolving landscape of Japan's rice cuisine. Visitors are encouraged to explore the differences in taste and preparation methods between Japanese rice and Calrose rice, fostering new insights and culinary choices.

Conclusion

This festival is a not-to-miss occasion for food lovers and families alike to engage in culinary discovery and encourages a broader appreciation for diverse rice varieties. Join us in Ariake Garden this fall to celebrate food, culture, and community as we mark five successful years of this beloved complex.

Location: Ariake Garden, Tokyo
Event Dates: October 24 - November 7, 2025
For More Information: USA Rice

Celebrate with us and explore the incredible tapestry of flavors that Calrose rice has to offer!