West Nippon Expressway (NEXCO West Japan) has launched an industry-academia collaboration with Yamaguchi Prefectural Kumagekita High School at Kudamatsu Service Area (upbound) on the E2 Sanyo Expressway. Third-year students in the Life Design Department's Food Culture Course will develop original menu items using locally sourced Yamaguchi Prefecture ingredients. The theme is 'Menus that showcase Yamaguchi's appeal through food,' requiring at least one agricultural, marine, or livestock product produced or processed within the prefecture. A tasting judging session and awards ceremony will be held on July 15, 2026 at the school, with judges including the school principal, SA manager, head chef, and a local industry representative. Commercialized dishes will be unveiled in late September 2026 and sold at the restaurant corner 'Shunsen Bimi' operated by Eagle Kogyo Co., Ltd. from early October 2026 through late March 2027. A commemorative launch event is also planned. Kumagekita High School, located in Shunan City, has over 110 years of history and pursues its 'Kumakita Brand' philosophy of community contribution through student activities.
FACT BOX
- Source: PR TIMES
- Category: 新規事業・プロジェクト