Shokuiku Sentai Umemonja

Event Overview

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

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

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 learned from a textbook.

Beyond just 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 periods in Spring, Summer, or Autumn (e.g., April, July, September, November, etc.)
• *2-Day Overnight Program Example**: An experiential program involving accommodation (e.g., during long holidays in November)

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

Venue and Access

The event is held at the Aoshima Youth Nature Center, surrounded by rich natural scenery.

Address: Kumano, Aza Fujie Nakasu, Miyazaki City, Miyazaki Prefecture 889-2151

Participation Tips

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

Registration via telephone may be required in advance. Since the recruitment period is limited, early checking is highly recommended. Wear comfortable clothing that you don't mind getting dirty.

What to Bring, Clothing, and Etiquette

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

• *Clothing**: Comfortable, durable clothes that can get dirty, and shoes (or boots).
• *Items to Bring**: Writing utensils, a towel, drinks, and tools required for specific activities.
• *Payment**: Cash (Please check the official website or contact the organizer for details).
• *Language Support**: English support is not provided (Please contact the organizer for details).
• *Reservations**: Mandatory. You must apply in advance via telephone or the designated form. Walk-ins are not accepted.
• *Etiquette**: Respect the natural environment. Please take your trash home and be mindful of plants and soil.