#Japan #Tsukuba #Tanbo no Gakkou #rice cultivation #Palsystem Ibaraki

Discover 'Tanbo no Gakkou' - The Rice Cultivation School

On May 24th (Saturday), the Palsystem Ibaraki Tochigi cooperative will host an engaging rice planting experience from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM at the JA Tsukuba City's Yatabe Exchange Rice Field. This event allows families to delve into the rice farming process, from planting to harvesting, in an interactive and educational manner. As concerns about rice shortages grow, this initiative aims to deepen understanding between producers and consumers through hands-on agricultural experiences.

Experience the Joy of Rice Planting

The event, titled 'Tanbo no Gakkou,' will feature three different activities during the year: rice planting, weed management and wildlife observation, and rice harvesting. Participants will be led by producers, using tools to mark and manually plant rice seedlings into the fields. Young children will especially enjoy feeling the mud between their toes as they connect with nature and learn the fundamentals of rice cultivation alongside their families.

Environmental Awareness through Sustainable Practices

Following the planting session, local producers will manage the rice fields using environmentally-friendly farming techniques, reducing the use of chemical pesticides and fertilizers by half compared to conventional methods. Participants will also be introduced to a unique concept known as 'bucket rice,' where they can learn to cultivate rice seedlings at home in buckets. This not only reinforces the joy of planting but also allows families to care for their crops until harvest.

Bridging the Gap Between Producers and Consumers

Since its establishment in 2002, the Palsystem Ibaraki Tochigi has collaborated with JA Tsukuba City Yatabe and the Palsystem Federation to create the 'Food and Green Exchange Business Promotion Council.' This council aims to promote sustainable agricultural practices and enhance food self-sufficiency in the region. Through various initiatives, the council builds models for resource-circulating agriculture and fosters new connections between urban and rural communities.

Every year, this council organizes diverse activities to enhance mutual understanding between producers and consumers. In addition to 'Tanbo no Gakkou', they also host 'Hata no Gakkou' (Field School) and 'Kinoko no Gakkou' (Mushroom School) throughout the year, providing opportunities for participants, especially children, to appreciate the value of agriculture and the food it produces.

Looking Ahead to 2025 and Beyond

In alignment with the upcoming International Year of Cooperatives in 2025, Palsystem Ibaraki Tochigi is determined to strengthen the collaboration between producers and consumers, promoting sustainable production and consumption practices. By creating these shared experiences, they strive to ensure the future of food security in the region.

Event Details for 'Tanbo no Gakkou'

• - Date: May 24, 2025 (Saturday) 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM
• - Location: JA Tsukuba City Yatabe Exchange Rice Fields (Around Mizuhori 162, Tsukuba)
• - Contents: Opening ceremony of 'Tanbo no Gakkou' and rice planting activity
• - Participants: 20 families with 66 individuals (34 adults and 32 children)

For more information, please visit the Palsystem Ibaraki website: Palsystem Ibaraki.