Shokuiku Sentai Umemonja

Event Overview

"Shokuiku Sentai Umemonja" is an educational program centered on "Shokuiku" (food education), held at the Aoshima Youth Nature Center in Miyazaki City, Miyazaki Prefecture. The goal is to help participants feel the cycle of life and the richness of food by not just eating, but also planting, growing, harvesting, and even cooking and processing vegetables.

Activities include planting seedlings, harvesting, shopping, group cooking (rice preparation), and making roasted sweet potatoes. By engaging all five senses in a natural environment, children can develop a deeper understanding of the food they eat.

Highlights & How to Enjoy

The greatest charm of this event is experiencing the entire process of food production in nature. Observing how vegetables grow and harvesting them with your own hands provides a precious experience that cannot be found in textbooks.

Beyond simple harvesting, the program includes cooking and processing the ingredients. Activities like group rice cooking and making roasted sweet potatoes foster teamwork and communication skills. Feel the changing seasons as you touch the soil and watch vegetables grow.

Schedule

• *Day Trip Program Example**: Held during specific seasons (e.g., April, July, September, or November).
• *2-Day, 1-Night Program Example**: An overnight experience (e.g., during long holidays in November).

Please check the official website for specific dates and registration periods.

Venue & Access

The event takes place at the Aoshima Youth Nature Center, surrounded by beautiful natural scenery.

Address: Fubey Nakasu, Kumano, Aoshima, Miyazaki-shi, Miyazaki 889-2151

Participation Tips

This is an educational program primarily designed for elementary school students (4th to 6th grade). Since activities take place outdoors, appropriate preparation for the season is essential.

Advance registration via telephone or the designated online form is required. As registration periods are limited, we recommend checking early. Please wear comfortable clothing that you don't mind getting dirty.

What to Bring & Etiquette

As this is an outdoor activity, please prepare the following:

• *Clothing**: Comfortable clothes that can get dirty, and sturdy shoes (or boots).
• *Items to Bring**: Writing utensils, a towel, drinks, and any tools required for the specific activity.
• *Payment Method**: Cash (Please check the official website or contact the organizer for details as specific payment methods are not listed).
• *English Support**: English support is not available (Please contact the organizer for details).
• *Reservations**: Advance booking via phone or the official form is mandatory. You cannot participate without a prior reservation.
• *Etiquette**: Please respect the natural environment, take your trash home, and be mindful of plants and soil.