On March 22, 2025, the 'GOTEMBA MIRAI PROJECT 2024 powered by TGC,' a social problem-solving initiative for high school students focused on entrepreneurship education, culminated in the exciting event ‘GOTEMBA MIRAI FES 2025 powered by TGC’. This event was produced by the high school students participating in the project in collaboration with the renowned Tokyo Girls Collection (TGC).
The Mayor of Gotemba City, Masami Katsumata, addressed attendees at the festival, stating, “This milestone of 70 years is not just a look back at the past, but an opportunity for everyone to celebrate together and take a new step towards the future.” The Mayor emphasized the city’s commitment to creating ‘Japan’s best’ facilities to promote the appeal of Gotemba, including developing the 'Kino Omocha Art Museum,' a new library and archives, and roadside station-like facilities.
The ‘GOTEMBA MIRAI PROJECT 2024 powered by TGC’ marks a significant collaboration between the city, Shizuoka Financial Group, Tokyo Girls Collection, and high schools in the Hokuryo region. For the past year, students involved in the project immersed themselves in Gotemba's agriculture and food culture while cultivating skills to shape their own futures.
A highlight of the event was the fashion show 'Gotemba’s AgriNature,' which was produced by the students. This creative venture was designed to showcase the unique blend of agriculture and nature within the context of fashion. Conceptualizing the stage name and costume imagery was a collaborative effort by the participating students.
During the opening of the fashion show, Mayor Katsumata shared his experience on the runway, saying, “I was a little nervous, but I felt like a model in a dreamy space, and I walked with a good feeling!” Following him, team member Kohei elaborated on the inspiration behind the AgriNature concept: “We wanted to share the richness of Gotemba City’s nature and the efforts of its farmers.”
Moreover, the fashion items displayed lively styling that fused agricultural workwear with modern aesthetics. Nacchi commented on the fashionable boots inspired by farming, saying, “I was amazed at how stylish they made farming attire look.” Another participant, Misa Irie, observed that the vibrant green pants evoked the themes of nature perfectly.
As the event unfolded, comments from audience members and participants showcased their enthusiasm for Gotemba's agricultural products. Nacchi remarked, “I’ve heard that eggs, ham, and sausage from here are delicious!” while participant Yuri expressed admiration for the project members’ passion and challenge spirit, stating she was glad to participate.
Looking back on the eight months of activities, the project team, including high school students and tutors from Shizuoka Prefectural University, shared their reflections on the mission they undertook in light of local agriculture and food issues. Naena, the Gotemba Support Ambassador, who was also present at the kickoff event last July, noted, “If there had been such a wonderful project when I was in high school, I would have definitely participated, and I’m thrilled to see so many working to improve Gotemba!”
During the presentations about their activities, team members opened up regarding the challenges they faced while learning practical solutions to local agricultural issues. Yuno, a member of Team 3, expressed her delight with her first experience in agriculture, stating, “It was fun harvesting vegetables and getting to enjoy dishes made from our picks.” Ryo from Team 6 reported that they created videos to share the charm of the region using insight from agricultural TikTok influencers.
Furthermore, Himari from Team 2 shared her impressions from a visit to a rice storage facility where they learned about rice management post-harvest, stating, “I want to eat with gratitude knowing how much labor goes into our food.” Sawaki from Team 5 highlighted the importance of addressing the shortage of successors in agriculture through audience interviews about making the field more appealing to younger generations.
As the multifaceted learning experiences continued, Asuna from Team 1 reported on a survey conducted at the Gotemba Outlet, saying, “We learned that Gotemba Koshihikari was not well known outside the prefecture. After we created rice flour mousse to taste test, every single participant said it was ‘delicious!’”
In a unique approach to supporting local farmers, Ririko from Team 4 talked about their project that involved creating eyeshadow from non-standard tomatoes, aiming to add value to produce that typically wouldn't gain market traction.
The event also featured a lively comedy segment involving popular acts such as Aa-Shiraki and the duo ‘Nukete Keido Truck.’ The performers entertained the audience with humorous performances and interactions, creating a joyful atmosphere.
As the event progressed, Sayuri Matsumura and Onigiri Taro captivated attendees with a talk show highlighting the appeal of Gotemba Koshihikari rice. Matsumura shared her love for rice, saying, “I originally loved rice, and visiting the storage facility deepened my appreciation for Gotemba Koshihikari!”
Onigiri Taro elaborated on the rice's qualities, pointing out its aromatic nature and delicious taste: “It has a sweetness that expands upon eating, making it delicious for making rice balls—one of the best Koshihikari varieties!”
The highlight of the culinary experience was the onigiri-making performance, where Taro used Gotemba Koshihikari rice, known for winning multiple awards for its quality. Audience members, selected via a lottery, were offered freshly made onigiri, resulting in a delighted and lively closing atmosphere at the event.
The 'GOTEMBA MIRAI FES 2025 powered by TGC' was held at the Gotemba City Civic Hall and saw participation by 1,000 attendees. Featuring activities from fashion showcases to live comedy and talks, the event highlighted the community’s commitment to youth engagement and local agriculture, all while celebrating the city’s 70-year milestone.
