HYOGO, Jul 30 (News On Japan) - The mayor of Joetsu City, Kanta Nakagawa, who sparked controversy by saying "Sanda's rice is bad," traveled to Hyogo Prefecture to personally apologize to the people of Sanda, including its mayor and local farmers.
Nakagawa, who spent his junior high and high school years in Sanda, made the controversial remark in early July, saying, "The rice is bad, but the sake is good." The comment prompted Sanda Mayor Katsuya Tamura to send a formal letter of protest, leading Nakagawa to issue a public apology.
During his visit on July 29th, Nakagawa was served a bowl of freshly cooked Sanda rice. Without saying a word, he quietly finished every grain, occasionally sipping tea and nibbling pickles. When asked about the taste, he said, "It was chewy and genuinely delicious."
Nakagawa met first with Tamura, offering a deep apology: "I sincerely apologize for causing distress with my extremely careless and inappropriate remark."
He then visited local rice farmers and again expressed regret: "I deeply reflect on having made everyone uncomfortable and am truly sorry." One farmer responded, "It made us feel a bit bad, honestly. We work hard to grow this rice, and we hope you understand that."
After touring rice production sites, Nakagawa addressed a group of farmers directly: "What you have built up through hard work was disrespected by my thoughtless and inconsiderate words. I again offer my deepest apologies."
Some farmers voiced serious concerns following the remark, saying, "What happens if Sanda rice prices fall or sales decline? Will Joetsu take responsibility?"
In response to the concerns and in an effort to make amends, Nakagawa proposed organizing a promotional event for Sanda rice, once again apologizing: "I truly regret causing so much distress. I’m deeply sorry."
Nakagawa is currently facing a call to resign from the Joetsu City Council over his remark. Whether this round of public apologies will be enough to restore public trust remains to be seen.
Source: FNN
