In Miyagi Prefecture, the number of international visitors is increasing. To better meet the needs of visitors with diverse dietary habits, the Miyagi Prefecture Tourism Federation launched the Miyagi Food Inclusive Tourism Promotion Council in 2024. VegeProject Japan participates in the council as an expert in vegetarian and vegan food options.
At each council meeting, local restaurants, food manufacturers, tourism-related businesses, media representatives, and others gather for active discussions. Participants share their experiences, ideas, and initiatives on how to better accommodate international visitors with diverse dietary needs.
These discussions include case studies by Hitoshi Takayama, owner-chef of Kazenosawa art&cuisine, an auberge in Miyagi Prefecture, on how the restaurant accommodates vegetarian and Muslim guests. Participants also sample dishes such as vegan green curry provided by create company Inc., which serves as the council’s secretariat.
In fiscal year 2025, VegeProject Japan was responsible for the following activities within the council.
・Giving a seminar on the basics and trends of vegetarian and vegan food, case studies, and how to develop related initiatives
・Conducting interview research with vegetarian and vegan communities
・Visiting businesses and providing advice based on vegetarian and vegan expertise
・Reporting on individual visits and introducing completed vegan menu items
At the above-mentioned Kazenosawa, which was visited by Haruko Kawano, Representative of VegeProject Japan, and at Kunper Farm Restaurant, operated by Izunuma Nousan in Tome City, visitors can enjoy vegan menu options.
