Tradge Inc. (CEO: Yuji Okamoto), based in Ichikawa Town, Hyogo Prefecture, and working to brand regional resources, reports that following the introduction of their activities on the YouTube channel "Hikaru" released on June 29, 2026, the town's blueberries (18kg) sold on their online store "Gifts of Ichikawa Life" sold out in just 9 hours.

This event, sparked by a reunion after approximately 12 years with childhood friend Hikaru, has become a "new model case for regional revitalization" by delivering the potential of the region's proud agricultural products to people nationwide. Moving forward, they plan to launch a new product, "SOY Pudding," developed in collaboration with a local renowned shop, aiming to build a sustainable regional industry.

A scene from the YouTube channel "Hikaru." Hikaru and CEO Yuji Okamoto, reunited after 12 years.

Video here

Official website here

Tradge Inc. (Ichikawa Town, Kanzaki District, Hyogo Prefecture, CEO: Yuji Okamoto) conducted online sales of Ichikawa Town blueberries on their official website "Gifts of Ichikawa Life" following their appearance on the YouTube channel "Hikaru" streamed on June 29, 2026 (Monday). As a result, the 180 sets prepared (totaling 18kg) sold out just 9 hours after sales began.

"The Circle of the Region" Connected by a Reunion with a Childhood Friend

Ichikawa Town Blueberries

The response this time was triggered by an opportunity for CEO Okamoto to discuss his passion for the business on the YouTube channel "Hikaru." This video was planned by Hikaru's close friend, and the concept was for Hikaru to reunite with memorable places and familiar people without knowing the content beforehand. During this, he was reunited with our CEO Okamoto after about 12 years. This outcome is thanks to the immense support from Hikaru's fans, which led to significant attention from people nationwide directed towards "Gifts of Ichikawa Life." It has become an example of how the "essential value" of small-scale local activities has been elevated into a social movement through modern digital communication.

Why Start a Business in Ichikawa Town Now?

The forging technology passed down in Ichikawa Town

CEO Yuji Okamoto (34) was born and raised in Ichikawa Town, left the region once, and then returned to Hyogo Prefecture. While involved with manufacturing companies in various places, he rediscovered the "world-class technology" in his hometown. He wants to deliver these wonderful technologies and regional resources to people nationwide who need them. Furthermore, driven by a sense of responsibility towards the next generation, "to protect a place where children can return and say 'I'm home' in this town," he founded Tradge Inc. in May 2026 to connect technology and culture to the future.

"Regional Excitement" Born Beyond the Sell-Out

Social media activity (Left: Official Instagram, Right: CEO's X account)

Immediately after the broadcast, the number of social media followers surged (as of July 1, 10:17 AM, Instagram increased by 3,528, X by 4,439), and we received many warm comments. In response to the sell-out report, farmers expressed surprise, saying, "To be able to bring such joy," along with their unwavering commitment to quality, stating, "We want to deliver good things." Local residents also expressed their happiness, saying, "It's great that Ichikawa Town seems like it will become more and more lively," creating a passionate cycle where regional pride is reaffirmed through the reunion with childhood friend Hikaru.

Bringing Producers' Pride to Dining Tables Nationwide

Mr. Hirohata, who manages Kasagata Blueberry Farm

"I want more people to know the taste of these blueberries." The earnest dedication of the producers in Ichikawa Town, who face the earth daily and sincerely nurture the fruit, is the origin of this result. The sell-out figure is not just a sales number; it is proof that the efforts accumulated by the producers have reached the hearts of many, and it is our greatest pride at Tradge.

A Challenge to Connect Tradition and Taste to the Future

Ichikawa's Tsuda Tofu Shop, founded in 1933: "Made by the Tofu Shop's Daughter" - A new dessert brand that leverages the natural sweetness of soybeans for a body-friendly treat.

We aim for sustainable regional revitalization, not a fleeting boom. As a first step, we are preparing to sell "SOY Pudding" from the local renowned shop "Tsuda Tofu Shop," which was also featured in the same video. We will deliver the traditional tofu-making techniques to modern dining tables in an attractive form. Latest information on new products and activities will be prioritized on our official LINE.

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CEO Yuji Okamoto's Comment

CEO Okamoto

"This response is thanks to Hikaru and Kyohei, who believed in Ichikawa Town's potential and thought about its future together with us, the producers who have walked alongside us, and Hikaru's fans who have warmly watched over us. We will proceed one step at a time with sincerity, so that what we create becomes a bridge connecting the region's traditions to the next generation and becomes a presence that stays close to everyone's lives. We are also planning exhibitions in Tokyo, so we hope to meet you all in person and express our gratitude."

[Contact Information for this Matter]

Tradge Inc.

Contact: Okamoto

Phone Number: 080-1406-1427

Email Address: yuji.okamoto@tradge.jp

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  • Source: PR TIMES
  • Category: 地域創生