JAL, which has bases throughout Japan, has been continuously implementing regional revitalization initiatives (currently the “JAL Furusato Project”), and in August 2020 launched the “JAL Furusato Ambassadors,” cabin crew members selected through an in-house recruitment process who move to the area to promote initiatives in their respective regions. In December of the same year, JAL appointed “JAL Hometown Cheering Troops” who are involved in regional revitalization while serving on board. The aim is to develop products and solve regional issues for hometowns and other regions with which they have connections, utilizing the knowledge they have accumulated as flight attendants.
We spoke with Akira Arizono, a JAL Furusato Ambassador who is involved in the development of green tea in Miyazaki.
–What can you tell us about your initiatives?
As a JAL Furusato Ambassador, I am working to make more people aware of the charms of Miyazaki, my hometown where I was born and raised, and to bring energy to the people of the prefecture.
This year marks the 10th anniversary of the Takachiho Township and Shiiba Mountain region being recognized as a “World Agricultural Heritage” site, and the project was initiated to create products that convey the charm of this region.
Have you ever heard of the World Agricultural Heritage?
World Agricultural Heritage is a special recognition given to regions that continue traditional agriculture while protecting the natural environment. This certification is a sign that the region’s agriculture and nature have been recognized as having important value for the future.
For example, places where traditional methods of agriculture, the unique landscape and culture of the area are sustainably preserved are eligible. It is hoped that this certification will help to make the area’s attractions widely known and help to revitalize the region.
–How are you involved in this effort?
I have visited this region many times and actually experienced its rich nature and culture, and I wanted to create a product that would pass it on to the future and that would make the most of the region’s charms and give it a sense of “Japaneseness” that only JAL can offer.
After numerous discussions, we came up with “Yaezakura Green Tea,” which incorporates “cherry blossoms,” symbolizing the four seasons of Japan, and expresses the beauty and splendor of nature, making it a suitable commemorative gift.
–Please tell us about JAL’s unique approach.
On October 31, a symposium was held to commemorate the 10th anniversary of the World Agricultural Heritage certification, and a product launch of “Yaezakura Green Tea” was also held.
I also spoke at the symposium to officially unveil this product.
As part of the “JAL Hometown Project,” the ambassadors were involved in the planning stages of this special product and put their hearts into creating it to bring out the best of their hometown.
The gorgeous pink packaging is designed to be a gift or a keepsake, and we hope that many people will pick up the product as one that will add color to a special moment.
–What is your message to travelers?
This “Yaezakura Green Tea” is a special blend of rare stem tea produced in an area certified as a World Agricultural Heritage site and gorgeous Yaezakura petals. This aromatic and visually beautiful green tea is perfect as a gift or as a treat for yourself.
Through this tea, we will not only boost the 10th anniversary of the World Agricultural Heritage certification, but also contribute to regional revitalization by connecting the charms of Takachiho Township and the Shiiba Mountain area to the future.
We hope you will enjoy the rich nature of the World Agricultural Heritage certified area and the gorgeous aroma of cherry blossoms with this tea.
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