#Japan #Tokyo #Komeko-juku #Rice Flour #Gurunavi

Uniting Experts for Rice Flour Promotion

The community known as 'Komeko-juku' is celebrating its second year dedicated to promoting rice and rice flour in Japan. This initiative, managed by the Rice and Rice Flour Consumption Expansion Project Office, aims to connect various stakeholders including milling companies, retailers, restaurants, and consumers to exchange ideas and foster collaboration. The overarching goal is to explore the future potential for rice and rice flour usage in diverse culinary settings.

Year 2024 Activities Overview

In the fiscal year 2024, Komeko-juku will engage approximately 270 businesses, organizations, and experts in rice flour-related activities. These engagements aim to encourage rice flour use in various food scenarios, paving the way for a future where rice flour is a common ingredient across Japanese kitchens and eateries. Notable activities planned include:

• - Rice Flour Conference 2024: A platform for discussing innovative ideas and trends in rice flour products. More details can be found here.
• - Gourmet Event Featuring Rice Flour: The 'Komeko no Gourmet - Rice Flour Gourmet Fair 2024' will showcase the versatility of rice flour in gourmet cooking. Event information is available here.
• - Rice Noodle Workshops: Educational sessions designed to deepen understanding and practical skills in preparing rice flour noodles. For more information, visit here.
• - Upcoming Rice Flour Conference 2025: Planning has already begun for the Spring 2025 event, with further details accessible here.

Invitation for New Members

Komeko-juku is actively recruiting new members who share the enthusiasm for rice flour and wish to contribute to this enriching community. The goal is not only to expand awareness but also to promote innovative uses of rice flour through unique product development, recipes, workshops, and culinary events, breaking down barriers across the food industry. Membership is free, and benefits include subscriptions to exclusive newsletters and participation in workshops.

• - Membership Registration: Anyone interested in rice flour, whether businesses or organizations, is encouraged to join. You can find the registration form here.

About the Rice and Rice Flour Consumption Expansion Project

This initiative falls under the auspices of Japan’s Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries as part of a broader strategy to increase rice and rice flour consumption in response to rising food demands from global population growth and the need for improved national food security. The focus is on reinforcing self-sufficiency through the promotion of rice and rice flour as vital crops for Japan's dietary future.

About Gurunavi, Inc.

Founded in 1989, Gurunavi has established itself as a leading restaurant information platform in Japan. It significantly changed the dining experience by allowing customers to view detailed menu information beforehand, a style that remains popular today. Gurunavi aims to expand its services under the motto of connecting people through food, positioning itself as the best partner for restaurant digital transformation. In October 2023, they rebranded as 'Rakuten Gurunavi'.

• - Company Information:

- Founded: October 2, 1989; Gurunavi was established on February 29, 2000.
- Location: 11th Floor, Hibiya Mitsui Tower, 1-1-2 Yurakucho, Chiyoda, Tokyo.
- Capital: 100 million JPY (as of December 31, 2024).
- Employee Count: Approximately 890 employees standalone and 950 consolidated (as of December 31, 2024).
- Website: Gurunavi Corporate

Through combined efforts, 'Komeko-juku' and Gurunavi aim to create a strong movement towards the increased use of rice flour, contributing to a dynamic and sustainable future for Japan's culinary traditions.