#JapaneseSakeExportsTrends

[thxnews]

Sake Symposium Unveils Industry's Japanese Future

  A Sip into Regional Revitalization

On October 21, 2023, Okayama University's Faculty of Agriculture hosted the 22nd Public Symposium, delving into the "Reiwa 5th Regional Revitalization System Theory 1st Lecture." The event, held at the Tsushima Campus, offered a unique exploration of strategies in the sake industry to foster regional revitalization.   A Brew of Challenges and Opportunities Sake, a traditional Japanese beverage, faces challenges amid a declining birth rate and an aging population. However, the symposium shed light on a contrasting trend – a surge in sake exports overseas. Renowned figures from the industry, including Ken Sekiya of Sekiya Brewing, Hidezo Watanabe of Shiragiku Sake Brewery, and Tsubasa Yamada of Kiku Masamune Sake Brewery, shared insights into their unique approaches, from entering agriculture to exploring new markets.  

Coordinator Mr. Onaka and the venue. Photo by National University Corporation Okayama University.  

Beyond the Sake Glass: A Global Perspective

Professor Kunio Nishikawa from Ibaraki University's Faculty of Agriculture added a global perspective, analyzing trends in overseas sake markets. The symposium unfolded a comprehensive dialogue, exploring the fusion of tradition and innovation in the sake industry.   A Toast to Business Initiatives The symposium extended beyond lectures, evolving into a dynamic panel discussion. The panel, featuring the industry experts and Professor Nishikawa, engaged in a lively exchange, addressing queries and delving deeper into the intricacies of the sake business.  

Future Visions of Okayama University

Looking ahead, Okayama University envisions continued engagement with diverse topics. The upcoming session, scheduled for December 16, 2023, will focus on the "Interaction between fruit growing areas and the region." This multifaceted event aims to explore the symbiotic relationship between fruit production areas, regional support, and the increasing number of farmers.   Experts at the Helm The symposium's distinguished lecturers included Ken Sekiya, Hidezo Watanabe, Tasuku Yamada, and Professor Kunio Nishikawa. Coordinated by Associate Professor Katsutoshi Onaka, the event provided a platform for the convergence of industry expertise and academic insight.  

Navigating Further Information

For more details and ongoing events, interested readers can explore the official websites of Okayama University's Faculty of Agriculture and the Reiwa 5th "Regional Revitalization System Theory." - Okayama University Faculty of Agriculture: Link - Reiwa 5th “Regional Revitalization System Theory”: Link   Upcoming Events Don't miss the 2023 47th Okayama University Faculty of Agriculture Harvest Festival/Faculty of Agriculture Fair on November 18-19 at the Tsushima Campus. Additionally, mark your calendars for the 2025 3rd Lecture on “Regional Revitalization System Theory” on December 16.   Coordination Credits Acknowledging the orchestrator of the symposium, Associate Professor Katsutoshi Onaka, the Faculty of Environmental Life and Natural Sciences (Agriculture), Okayama University.   Sources: THX News & Okayama University's Faculty of Agriculture. Read the full article