On Saturday, July 4, 2026, the Tropical Agriculture Research Front (TARF, locally “Nekken”) of the Japan International Research Center for Agricultural Sciences (JIRCAS) held its 19th Open House. A total of 377 visitors, including families, visited the facility and participated in mini-lectures and a quiz stamp rally.

During the mini-lecture session, two researchers—Dr. YAMANAKA Shinsuke, Director of TARF, and Dr. MARUI Junichiro, Head of the Public Relations Partnership Unit—gave presentations titled “Cultivars Developed at TARF” and “Fermented Foods of Thailand & Laos and Japanese Koji,” respectively. The lectures attracted a large audience, and the organizers greatly appreciated the many thoughtful questions and valuable comments received after each presentation.

This year also featured a new research exhibition booth aimed at students, particularly junior and senior high school students, titled “Cutting-Edge Research Supporting the World’s Food Supply,” presented jointly by the Rice, Cassava, and Greenhouse Horticulture Research Groups. In addition, the following family-oriented exhibits—“Experience the Wonders of Soil” (Island Environment Research Group), “More than Just Sugar! Fun Facts About Sugarcane” (Sugarcane Research Group), and “An Illustrated Guide to Tropical Fruit Trees” (Tropical Fruit Tree Research Group)—were held as in previous years. These exhibits attracted many visitors, providing opportunities for researchers to answer questions and exchange ideas with the public.

Children also enjoyed participating in a quiz-based stamp rally featuring questions about TARF’s research activities, agricultural machinery, and other exhibits.

Although the weather was sunny and temperatures were high, raising concerns about heat-related illness, visitors made use of hydration stations offering barley tea and designated rest areas. Thanks to these measures, the event was completed safely without any serious health issues among visitors or staff. The staff members, together with “Nekken-kun,” the mascot character of TARF, would like to express their sincere gratitude to everyone who attended.