Experience Urban Farming at 'Uonuma Farming Night'
Mark your calendars for August 28, 2026, as Plantio Co., Ltd. hosts an innovative evening event titled 'Uonuma Farming Night' at the rooftop garden of the Otemachi Building in Tokyo. This unique gathering will serve as the kickoff for the 'Uonuma Farming Gateway Project,' supported by Japan’s Cabinet Office.
What to Expect at the Event
Participants will be treated to a keynote speech by Plantio’s CEO, Takayoshi Serizawa, followed by a panel discussion featuring experts in urban farming collaboration. Attendees will also have the opportunity to enjoy a community networking session that highlights local rice and sake from the Uonuma and Tokamachi regions.
This event focuses on creating a new lifestyle option known as 'cow farming,' where urban dwellers actively engage in agricultural practices in rural areas, tapping into a sustainable and fulfilling connection between city and countryside. It seeks to establish a better flow of resources and human capital through ongoing participation rather than mere tourism.
The Urban Farming Initiative
The 'Uonuma Farming Gateway Project' aims to bridge the gap between urban residents and agriculture by establishing an intermediary organization. This project will enable city dwellers to immerse themselves in rural agricultural practices while promoting mutual exchanges between urban farming and the rural community. This initiative contributes to various government policies, including the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications' Hometown Registration Program, aimed at fostering deeper ties between urban and rural residents.
Who Should Attend?
This event is perfect for:
- - Individuals who enjoy home gardening, shared farms, or community gardens in urban settings.
- - Urbanites seeking continuous engagement with rural areas without a full commitment to relocation.
- - Those interested in dual living arrangements, workation opportunities, or weekend getaways.
- - People passionate about well-being and resilience through food and agriculture.
- - Corporate representatives involved in human capital management and regional co-creation.
No prior agricultural experience is needed; even those interested in learning more are welcome to join the conversation!
Event Details
- - Event Name: Uonuma Farming Night
- - Date & Time: August 28, 2026, from 6:00 PM to 8:30 PM (registration from 5:30 PM)
- - Venue: Otemachi Building, 7th Floor Lounge & Rooftop 'The Edible Park OTEMACHI' (1-6 Otemachi, Chiyoda, Tokyo)
- - Capacity: 50 attendees
- - Participation Fee: ¥1,500 per person (covers food costs)
- - Hosts: Uonuma Farming Gateway Office (inside Satoyama Public Relations Inc.) in collaboration with Plantio Co., Ltd. and the Niigata Region Association.
For those interested in participating, please register via
Peatix. Note that the event is part of a broader government-supported initiative to promote rural population engagement.
Agenda Highlights
- - 5:30 PM Registration
- - 6:00 PM Opening Remarks & Introduction of the Uonuma Farming Gateway
- - 6:15 PM Keynote Speech by Takayoshi Serizawa
- - 6:45 PM Panel Discussion on the Impact of Urban Farming
- - 7:30 PM Move to the Rooftop for the Networking Session with Local Cuisine
- - 8:30 PM Closing Remarks
About the Venue
'The Edible Park OTEMACHI' is an urban farming hub located on the rooftop of the Otemachi Building, offering city residents a chance to engage with the agricultural process—from growing vegetables to harvesting and enjoying farm-fresh meals. This event utilizes the rooftop garden as a space for community interaction and sustainable practices.
Join us as we explore the potential for urban and rural communities to thrive together through innovative farming initiatives. Dive into this engaging evening filled with learning, networking, and the enjoyment of local delicacies, all while fostering a stronger connection between the urban and rural experiences of food and farming.