ZET-BASE KYOTO Transforms into a "Demonstration Field": 20cm Dwarf Rice Bridges Future Agriculture and Urban Life

Tsucrea Co., Ltd. (Headquarters: Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo; CEO: Hideki Suzuki), the operator of the co-creation hub "ZET-BASE KYOTO" in Muko City, Kyoto Prefecture, has announced a collaborative cultivation experiment. Starting June 3, 2026, the facility will partner with Kyoto Prefecture and Future Food R&D Center Co., Ltd. (Headquarters: Seika-cho, Kyoto; CEO: Takehiro Masumura) to verify the growth of the dwarf rice variety "Kyo-no-yume."

This initiative marks a new phase for ZET-BASE KYOTO, utilizing the space as a "Demonstration Field" where startup technologies are tested in standard indoor environments rather than specialized research labs. Alongside the experiment, the facility will host "ZET-campus" workshops: a rice planting event on June 13, 2026, and a harvest and tasting event scheduled for October 31, 2026. These programs are open to residents, workers, and students in Kyoto Prefecture.

ZET-campus is a series of lectures and experiences designed to realize the "ZET-valley Concept." It brings together residents, companies, universities, and youth to learn about decarbonization technologies. By showcasing the latest innovations and hosting seminars, the project aims to promote the adoption of zero-carbon technologies in daily life and co-create the "city of the future."

ZET-BASE KYOTO, located on the 3rd floor of the Kyoto Financial Group MUKOU Building near JR Mukomachi Station, originally served as a hub for deep tech players through co-working and networking events. Moving forward, the facility will evolve into a site for "social implementation," connecting startup technologies with local communities and educational institutions. The "Kyo-no-yume" project is the first major step in this evolution.

"Kyo-no-yume" is a dwarf rice variety that grows to approximately 20cm, making it suitable for indoor cultivation. Developed by the Future Food R&D Center, this "bio-manufacturing" technology utilizes indoor multi-tier cultivation systems to aim for yields over 10 times higher per unit area compared to traditional outdoor farming. It features low environmental impact through pesticide-free growth, minimal fertilizer use, and a closed system that prevents nutrient runoff, contributing to the reduction of greenhouse gases in agriculture.

In this demonstration, ZET-BASE KYOTO will monitor temperature, water, and fertilizer conditions necessary for stable growth in a typical indoor setting, while also measuring carbon sequestration. Time-lapse cameras will record the process from germination to harvest to visualize the technology for visitors. Furthermore, Kyoto Prefectural Koyo High School will participate in growth observation as part of their inquiry-based learning curriculum.