In Mizushima, rice fields and farms are disappearing, and residential areas and commercial facilities are being developed rapidly.
On the other hand, while the shopping district in Mizushima is gradually seeing new stores, it still has a low foot traffic situation.
Even though there are events held once a year that create excitement, they seem to end at that time, and the local people appear to be troubled.
The market that had been held regularly since 2017 gathered many people and seemed to be regaining vitality, as if Mizushima's liveliness was about to return, but it ended in March 2023.
There are people who have raised their hands to hold a new market in hopes of revitalizing Mizushima.
The professional volleyball team Kurashiki Ablaze and the Mizushima Moriagetai are among them.
We will introduce the market that is expected to bring excitement to the Mizushima area.
What is Ablaze Garden Mizushima?
A market aimed at revitalizing the Mizushima area started under the elevated section of Mizushima Rinkai Railway's Sakae Station, but it ended in March 2023.
Beloved by the locals, at times it gathered over 1,000 people, where both adults and children enjoyed food and it became a place of relaxation in Mizushima.
Local people were searching for ways to continue it somehow.
At such a time, the professional women's volleyball team Kurashiki Ablaze stepped forward, hoping to bring vitality back to Mizushima.
About the Organizers
The organizations that have come together to hold a new market for the enjoyment of the local people and to revitalize Mizushima are Kurashiki Ablaze and Mizushima Moriagetai.
Kurashiki Ablaze
Kurashiki Ablaze was established as a corporate team in 2019 and is the first women's professional volleyball team born in Mizushima, Kurashiki City, in April 2022.
They are focused on social contribution activities and assist in various local events.
During the previous market, they also participated as operational staff and planned sports experience corners for children, valuing interaction with the local people.
Mizushima Moriagetai
Mizushima Moriagetai is a serious gathering of adults who play formed in 2013 to revitalize the Mizushima area.
Led by Captain Ueda Mitsuhiko, there are about 20 members.
They have planned various events in the past.
With the experience gained from previous events and a shared passionate desire to improve the Mizushima area, they decided to operate the market together with Kurashiki Ablaze.
About the Stores
The stores at the event are all carefully selected from local shops known for their delicious offerings by the Mizushima Enthusiast Team.
From sweets to hearty dishes, a variety of appetizing shops line up.
The stores participating this time are as follows.
- Shimaya Seika Eido
- Bistro Gu
- Gocchan
- La.flure&dreammarket&Iroha
- Mama Caron
- Masuda Tofu Shop
- Menya Tokiwa
- Alamezon
- tete
- Sucre
- Fukujin Maru
- Nash Curry American
- T’s CLOVER
- Taiwan Rice
- Okabe Coffee
- Kurashiki Shokupan Kobo P-chan
- Flower and Gem Magic Therapy Experience
- Milk Crown
On the day of the market, heavy rain fell during the day, and there were concerns about whether the event could be held.
However, by the time the event started, the rain had stopped, and a fantastical sunset began to appear.
The shop owners seem to be ready, so let's go out and explore right away.
Store Introductions
The stylish market "Abreace Garden Mizushima" was created in collaboration between the Kurashiki Ablaze women's volleyball team and the Mizushima Enthusiast Team.
While I can't share everything, I will introduce a few shops that caught my attention.
Masuda Tofu Shop
Masuda Tofu Shop is popular at the Mizushima market.
They have a tofu factory in Takaya, Okayama City, and in addition to participating in events, they operate an izakaya called "O-mame-dokoro Masu" in Okayama City and a tofu cuisine shop at Okayama Garden in Nagashima.
They are particular about the water used to make their tofu, which enhances the deliciousness of the tofu when paired with toppings like grated daikon and ume shirasu.
If you eat on-site, one of the attractions is being able to enjoy freshly fried tofu.
The players of Kurashiki Ablaze also love "Agedashi Tofu" and "Mochi Mochi Tofu Donuts" and often eat them.
Taiwan Rice
Taiwan Rice is reputed for offering authentic Taiwanese flavors.
The owner of the guesthouse Yujiiin in the Bikan Historical Area learned recipes from Taiwanese staff to create this Taiwanese cuisine.
Since I had never eaten Taiwanese cuisine before, I immediately tried Lu Rou Fan.
The pork, simmered sweetly with Taiwanese seasonings, blends well with the white rice, making it seem like you could eat several bowls.
The toppings of takana, boiled egg, and pickled daikon enhance the flavor of the pork nicely.
It was a bowl of rice that made me want to eat it again.
Alamezon
Located in Nakayashita, Kita Ward, Okayama City, is “A La Maison.”
Since they boil fresh pasta after ordering, you can enjoy it freshly made.
Watching the freshly made pasta being mixed with a large cheese called Grana Padano up close builds anticipation for what the taste will be like.
I ordered the pasta with cod roe and lemon cream sauce.
The impact of the cod roe is stronger than it looks, and it is quite filling.
While it has a creamy texture, the lemon adds a refreshing satisfaction to the fresh pasta.
Homemade Macarons Mama Caron
“Mama Caron” started by providing handmade macarons for a school bazaar for children.
They mainly sell at events such as markets and through an online shop.
Talking with the owner, Takizawa, conveys a warm and gentle atmosphere.
They also have cute gift cans that look like jewelry boxes for presents.
I heard that the popular flavors are vanilla and seasonal limited fig, so I purchased them right away.
The bite-sized macarons spread a fluffy flavor in the mouth, and eating them brought an indescribable feeling of happiness.
Rice Flour Baby Castella Tete
This is “Rice Flour Baby Castella Tete.”
Using 100% Okayama Prefecture rice flour, it is a gluten-free cute castella that does not use any oil.
Since they make it on the spot, you can enjoy it freshly baked.
Even when cooled, it remains moist, making it perfect for souvenirs.
You can purchase them at the store's event space or through mobile sales at events.
With the recent increase in wheat allergies, it is great that even children with allergies can enjoy them.
Kurashiki Ablaze
The players of Kurashiki Ablaze were selling handmade juices and light snacks.
The handmade yuzu hot drink warms the body as it gets colder, allowing for a moment of relaxation.
Ahead of the V League starting in November 2023, merchandise was being sold and videos introducing the team were being shown, causing visitors to stop and watch.
At the venue, makeshift chairs and tables made from beer cases were set up here and there, and people were seen relaxing and chatting with friends and family.
Mizushima Cheer Squad
At the Mizushima Cheer Squad booth, craft beer was being sold.
Perhaps because it was a popular beer that could only be tasted locally, it was selling quickly regardless of the cold weather.
Main Event
The memorable first event featured fire artist Haruki from Toyama Prefecture, space lighting artist Nakazawa, and candle artist mamiCo, who creates unique lights based in Kurashiki City, presenting a light and flame performance show that created a fantastical atmosphere.
A tribute and prayer light for the Mabi area of Kurashiki City was also included.
On the day, the wind was strong, and the staff struggled to keep the candle lights lit as they kept blowing out.
However, once the show began, the flames of the candles remained lit, exuding a mystical beauty.
I feel like I've gained something by being able to see such a show in Mizushima.
The show has ended, and "Ablaze Garden Mizushima" will close at 8 PM.
Since the event venue is close to the Mizushima shopping district, it might be just the right time for a second party or a stroll around the streets of Mizushima.
Conclusion
Kurashiki Ablaze director Suzuki Hideo shared the following thoughts.
“We wanted to continue the market that the local people of Mizushima were looking forward to, and with the cooperation of the Mizushima Boost Team members and the community, this 'Ablaze Garden Mizushima' has been realized.
I believe that being a professional team is not just about achieving results in matches, but also about working together with the local community to energize Mizushima.”
Additionally, Ueda Mitsuhiko from the Mizushima Boost Team shared the following thoughts.
“Since this is the first time, we held an art event with a sense of mourning and prayer, and I think everyone enjoyed it.
If events like this can be held regularly in Mizushima, I hope as many people as possible will come to Mizushima.
And I sincerely wish for the local area to thrive, and ultimately for all of Japan to thrive.”
Everyone shares the same desire for Mizushima to regain its vitality, for people to gather, and for it to become a lively town.
However, it is not just about thinking; it is the actions of those who actually take steps that will realize dreams and hopes.
I hope that the newly launched "Ablaze Garden Mizushima" will also be held regularly.
Delicious food and fun atmosphere events are very welcome!
Let’s all, including the author, work together to energize the town of Mizushima.
Data on Ablaze Garden Mizushima
| Name | Ablaze Garden Mizushima |
|---|---|
| Date | October 20, 2023 (Friday) 4 PM - 8 PM |
| Location | Under the elevated station of Mizushima Rinkai Railway Sakae Station, Kurashiki City |
