EN JAPÓN ALUCINAN CON EL FENOMENO DEL PERU EN ESCUELAS JAPONESAS

IN JAPAN, THEY'RE AMAZED BY THE PERUVIAN PHENOMENON IN JAPANESE SCHOOLS CONTACT► [email protected] Argentinians try Ceviche for the first time    • Argentinos prueban por primera vez el Cevi...   The city of Okawa has distinguished itself in recent years for its interest in international cultural exchange, especially with Peru. This connection with the South American country was strengthened during the Tokyo 2021 Paralympic Games, when Okawa was designated as the host city for the Peruvian delegation. As part of this bond, a cooperation agreement was signed in 2021 to maintain the cultural exchange beyond the sporting event. Since then, one of the most significant initiatives has been the incorporation of Peruvian cuisine into school lunches at Okawa's elementary and junior high schools, allowing Japanese children to discover the flavors of Peru while learning about its culture. On January 24, students at Okawa's elementary and junior high schools enjoyed a special Peruvian menu**, a tradition that has been maintained since the signing of the cultural agreement with Peru. At Onoshima Elementary School, students had the opportunity to try two emblematic Peruvian dishes: Lomo saltado, a preparation of stir-fried beef with tomatoes, onions, and French fries, accompanied by a touch of soy sauce. Shrimp ceviche, a refreshing dish of seafood marinated in lime juice with spices and vegetables. The children in charge of the lunch service enthusiastically distributed the dishes among their classmates, while members of the city's education council also joined in, sharing the table with the students and enjoying the Peruvian flavors. The experience not only surprised the children with the taste of the dishes but also sparked their curiosity about Peruvian culture. Comments like "Ketchup and paprika give it a great flavor" were heard. A sixth-grade student mentioned, "The shrimp ceviche was delicious, and I would like to eat it again. I wonder what other foods there are in Peru." Similarly, a fifth-grade student expressed, "I didn't know much about Peru, but now I want to learn more about its food and customs." Okawa's commitment to cultural exchange with Peru is not limited to gastronomy. The city has promoted other activities that strengthen ties between the two nations, such as teaching aspects of Peruvian culture in schools and organizing commemorative events. Looking ahead, the city of Okawa plans to continue these types of initiatives, reaffirming its commitment to promoting Peruvian culture and strengthening the friendship between Japan and Peru. This program not only enriches children's knowledge of other countries but also reinforces international cooperation through education and gastronomy.