Ryukyu Shimpo and Kewpie Host Interactive Farming Tour in Itoman City to Boost Child Nutrition

Ryukyu Shimpo and Kewpie lead a 43-family tour in Itoman City to explore seasonal vegetables and healthy cooking tips. See how farming boosts child nutrition.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 13, 2026, 10:25 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from Japan Daily

Bridging the Gap Between Farm and Table

The "Parent-Child Enjoyment! A Vegetable-Rich Experience Tour" served as a practical educational platform for families to explore the origins of their daily food supply. Organized by the Ryukyu Shimpo with sponsorship from Kewpie, the event drew 43 elementary students and their parents to a local farm in Itoman City. The primary objective was to move beyond the supermarket experience, allowing children to interact directly with the soil and understand the labor-intensive reality of professional farming.

Expert Guidance on Nutritional Preservation

Participants were guided by vegetable sommelier Kayo Tokumoto, who provided technical insights into the nutritional and textural properties of seasonal crops. During the session, Tokumoto advised families on optimal preparation methods, such as mashing potatoes while hot to achieve a fluffy consistency and consuming carrots with the skin intact to maximize vitamin intake. These professional tips were designed to empower parents to make more informed decisions when preparing homegrown or locally sourced produce for their households.

A Multisensory Harvest Experience

Under clear skies with temperatures reaching 24°C, the group successfully harvested six distinct varieties of vegetables, including kohlrabi, cauliflower, and onions. For many of the children, the experience offered their first look at the natural state of common staples, such as the resemblance between onion tops and green onions. The hands-on activity encouraged curiosity about the lifecycle of plants and the environmental factors that influence crop growth, fostering a deeper respect for the agricultural industry.