A fair aimed at supporting the recovery of the Noto area in Ishikawa Prefecture, which suffered significant damage from the Noto Peninsula earthquake in January 2024, is being held at roadside stations in the Minamishin region on March 22 and 23, 2025. Organized by the Minamishin Block Council of the Nagano Prefecture roadside station exchange association, this event will feature processed marine products primarily sourced from Noto, inviting locals to contribute to recovery efforts by purchasing these items.
Mr. Akira Katagiri, the head of the Minamishin Block Council and station manager of 'Nagano Minamishin Touch Market' in Toyooka Village, is urging everyone to participate. He expressed, "I would be happy if you could support Noto from Minamishin by consuming the products." He hopes that, through this fair, local consumers can directly impact the recovery of the affected areas.
The fair is a continuation of previous fundraising efforts by the roadside stations in the region, which have included collecting donations. In February, inspired by Ishikawa Prefecture’s 'Supporting Consumption Wish Project,' the council proposed this unique fair as a way to encourage local consumption of Noto's products. Products have been sourced from notable locations like the 'Noto Food Festival Market' in Nanao City and 'Shinbo Jitsugyo Store' in Wajima City, ensuring a diverse selection for attendees.
Approximately 40 different types of products will be available, including dried squid and fish made with Noto's traditional fish sauce, grilled red fish, Hotaluika preserved in brine, and even local sake. This variety not only highlights the culinary richness of Noto but also serves as a direct avenue for consumers to support the recovery of the region.
Throughout the morning on the first day of the fair, numerous visitors flocked to the event, eagerly exploring the goods on offer. A local woman in her 60s commented, "I bought a set of sweets and dried goods. I can't go to Noto because it's far away, so I hope I can support them through this kind of fair." Her sentiment reflects the keen interest and community spirit surrounding this initiative.
Katagiri further emphasized, "It would be wonderful if people could eat Noto's food and help support recovery from the disaster." His remarks highlight the fair's dual mission of promoting local food culture while rallying support for the residents of Noto who continue to rebuild their lives.
The fair is slated to extend its reach by being held at several other roadside stations in the Minamishin area, including Iida City, Fujimi Town, and Otaki Village, on March 24, 2025. This ensures that the initiative captures a wider audience, enabling more people to become involved in this vital cause.
Through this cooperative effort, the Minamishin community has not only established a platform for aiding Noto but has also fostered relationships that transcend geographical barriers. The passion and dedication evident in this initiative serve as a reminder of the strength and resilience of communities when they come together for a common cause. As the fair progresses, it is hoped that even more individuals will take part in supporting Noto, enjoying delicious products while contributing to reviving an essential part of Ishikawa Prefecture.
