Discover Usuki: A Cultural Immersion for Foreign Residents

Each year, the Usuki city hosts the Usuki Cultural Experience Tour, a special event designed for foreign residents working in the city. The goal is simple yet profound: to better enjoy and understand Usuki’s natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant traditions—and to help participants feel truly at home in the community.

This year’s tour, held on November 15 (Saturday) and 16 (Sunday), welcomed 39 participants from 11 local companies, representing five countries—Philippines, Myanmar, Indonesia, Cambodia, and Sri Lanka. The two-day program offered a variety of activities that allowed participants to fully experience Usuki’s unique culture.

Each morning began with an engaging seminar featuring quizzes and insights into Usuki’s profile, heritage, and cultural highlights, with a special focus on its renowned gastronomy. Participants then walked through the scenic Nioza Historical Path to Kenshoji Temple, where they experienced Zen meditation under the guidance of the resident priest.

Lunch featured a live demonstration of Ohan (Yellow rice) and Kayaku (Stewed vegetables), two beloved traditional local dishes that represent Usuki’s status as a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy. Participants also tried their hand at making rice balls and enjoyed traditional local dishes along with tori-ten, a regional specialty of tempura-style chicken.

Afternoon activities varied by day:

• On the 15th, participants joined a guided tour of the National Treasure Usuki Stone Buddhas, gaining deeper insight into their historical and cultural significance. They also took part in a hands-on ginger syrup painting on Usuki crackers at Goto Seika, visited the historic Kotegawa Brewery for a guided tour of the facilities and a sake tasting, and enjoyed the rich, savory flavor of miso soft-serve at Kani Shoyu.

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

• On the 16th, after same brewery and miso stops, participants explored the lively Nobori Market on Hacchō Ōji Street and joined the 10th anniversary celebration of Usuki’s local sake toast ordinance, sharing a mass toast with local residents and contributing to the festive atmosphere. The day concluded with visits to Usuki Castle Ruins, the Inaba family villa, and Yasaka Shrine.

  

  

  

  

  

  

The event was featured on NHK’s morning news. Feedback from participants was overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing a newfound love for Usuki and a desire to attend more events like this and live in the city long-term. At the same time, participants offered thoughtful suggestions, such as: “We want to try more Usuki cuisine.” “I’d love to meet and communicate with more locals and other foreign residents.” “I wish we had more information about upcoming events and festivals.”

The city plans to incorporate this feedback into next year’s program, making it even more meaningful and inclusive. With everyone’s support, Usuki continues to grow as a welcoming and culturally vibrant community.