Exploring the Vital Relationship Between Farmers and Rice in Modern Japan

On March 28, 2023, Pal System and the Agricultural and Rural Cultural Association co-hosted a seminar titled "The Rice and Farmers We Want to Discuss Now" in Shinjuku, Tokyo. This event brought together rice farmers and journalists to converse about the shifts and challenges in the rice industry following the "Reiwa rice crisis."

A New Perspective on Rice Pricing

The seminar was a special event marking the release of a recently published book by the Agricultural and Rural Cultural Association. With a total of 61 participants joining both in-person and online, the session provided a platform for meaningful dialogue. Among the speakers were two distinguished rice farmers, Masatoshi Kanno from Fukushima and Yukihiko Shigatani from Niigata, along with rice journalist Riri Tani. Together, they shared insights into pricing fairness from both producers' and consumers' perspectives, water paddy values beyond production, and the intricate relationship between farmers in rural areas and consumers in urban settings.

Understanding the Challenges Ahead

Yukihiko Shigatani shed light on the roots of the ongoing "Reiwa rice crisis," pinpointing a significant shortage of farmers as a key issue. He emphasized the complexity of rice production, stating, “The term for rice is written as 'eighty-eight' in Japanese, indicating how labor-intensive it is. The last two processes involve 'washing' and 'cooking' the rice—steps that bridge the farmers' labor and the consumers' plate.” This highlights the essential link between producers and consumers in ensuring rice production is sustained.

Masatoshi Kanno shared his experiences of the 2011 Fukushima nuclear disaster and its impact on local agriculture. He introduced the 'Tanada Owner System,' where urban residents can participate in rice farming, thus forging stronger bonds between farmers and consumers. “The resilience we’ve shown in overcoming challenges like the nuclear incident and extreme weather is a testament to the community support,” Kanno said. He expressed concern that it’s no longer feasible for farmers alone to maintain agricultural land without the involvement of the broader community.

Breaking Bread and Building Connections

Following the discussions, attendees shared a lunch featuring rice balls made from the farmers' own harvests. As they enjoyed the food, participants engaged with the speakers about their farming practices, daily challenges, and future prospects for rice production. This informal setting facilitated deeper conversations about the realities of rice farming and the significance of knowing where our food comes from.

The Importance of Engagement

Riri Tani concluded the seminar with a call to action for consumers: “Visiting production areas reveals the complex nature of rice, including its role in traditions and environmental balance. Understanding these values contributes to the joy of food. Whether you visit, choose wisely at the store, or read about agriculture, becoming an informed consumer enriches our food culture.”

Furthermore, the significance of the available book, "The Rice and Farmers We Want to Discuss Now," cannot be overstated. It explores why rice is in short supply, how pricing is determined, and the genuine pricing for farmers. It includes historical timelines of rice issues, an index of water paddy biodiversity, and various ways to connect with farmers and the land. These insights serve as a reminder that we live in a time when the onus of sustaining agriculture cannot be solely placed on producers.

A Continuous Journey

The agricultural magazine, "Nonbiru," published bi-monthly by Pal System, continues to support individuals who aspire to live sustainably and foster community resilience. It highlights diverse local challenges and celebrates collaborative efforts towards robust connections among residents. The magazine encourages readers to share ideas that cultivate a supportive community while providing resources that solve everyday issues.

With ongoing efforts, Pal System remains committed to delivering food and lifestyle products that support community well-being and knowledge sharing among local residents.