High School Students Showcase Culinary Creativity at Usuki’s New Local Cuisine Grand Prize

Usuki City, one of only two cities in Japan designated as a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy, is known for its rich natural environment, diverse agricultural and marine products, and deep-rooted traditions of fermentation and food craftsmanship.

Nurturing the Next Generation Through Local Cuisine

To pass this culinary heritage on to the next generation while encouraging fresh ideas, the High School NEW Local Cuisine Grand Prize was launched as a learning-focused initiative. It invites students to explore Usuki’s food culture and reinterpret it through original dishes that blend tradition with innovation.

Usuki's New Local Cuisine Grand Prize @ Usuki Central Community Center

Usuki's New Local Cuisine Grand Prize @ Usuki Central Community Center

6 Dishes Presented at Usuki’s New Local Cuisine Grand Prize

A Showcase of Youthful Creativity

On Sunday, December 21, 2025, the competition was held at the Usuki Central Community Center. Six teams participated: four from Usuki High School, one from Tsukumi High School, and one from Usuki Marine Science High School.

Each team gave a presentation explaining the inspiration behind their dish, the ingredients used, creative techniques, and recipe highlights. Their ideas reflected a deep respect for local food traditions and a desire to carry them forward in new ways.

6 Teams Present at Usuki’s New Local Cuisine Grand Prize

6 Teams Present at Usuki’s New Local Cuisine Grand Prize

6 Teams Present at Usuki’s New Local Cuisine Grand Prize

6 Teams Present at Usuki’s New Local Cuisine Grand Prize

6 Teams Present at Usuki’s New Local Cuisine Grand Prize

6 Teams Present at Usuki’s New Local Cuisine Grand Prize

Award-Winning Team  

Grand Prize   Tsukumi High School – “Tsukumin's” Team  

Marinated Kabosu Yellowtail with Colorful Seasonal Vegetables  

→ Scheduled to be served at restaurants across Usuki starting February 2026.

Second Prize (Runner-up)   Usuki High School – “Mi-cuit” Team 

Kabosu Yellowtail Mi-cuit with Locally Grown “Honmammon” Vegetables

While only two teams received awards, all entries showcased the students’ creativity, passion, and fresh perspectives—qualities that reflect the vibrant food culture of Usuki.

Grand Prize Winner: Tsukumi High School - "Tsukumin's" Team

Second Prize : Usuki High School - "Mi-Cuit" Team

All Participating Teams

Food Park: A Celebration of Local and Global Flavors  

In addition to the competition, a lively Food Park was held outside the venue. Visitors enjoyed bento meals and processed goods made with local ingredients, as well as creative regional dishes presented by Usuki chefs at international UNESCO gastronomy events. Specialty products from Tsuruoka City—another UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy—were also available, highlighting the spirit of intercity culinary exchange.

Local Food Park at Usuki's New Local Cuisine Grand Prize

Local Food Park at Usuki's New Local Cuisine Grand Prize

Local Food Park at Usuki's New Local Cuisine Grand Prize

Carrying Usuki’s Food Culture into the Future  

This event was more than a competition—it was a testament to how Usuki’s food culture continues to evolve through education, creativity, and community collaboration. From high school students to professional chefs, the people of Usuki are working together to preserve and reimagine their culinary heritage for future generations.