#CSA #Naruko Rice Project #Yuki-Musubi

Celebrating 20 Years of the Naruko Rice Project

The Naruko Rice Project, dedicated to protecting local agriculture and cuisine, is marking its 20th anniversary with the release of a new book titled Connective Rice and the launch of fresh rice known as Yuki-Musubi. This initiative is essential for preserving the unique culture and landscape of the Naruko region in Miyagi Prefecture, which has a rich history dating back around 1,200 years.

The Formation of the Naruko Rice Project

Facing a decline in tourism due to economic challenges, which saw visitor numbers drop to 200 million annually, the community rallied together to maintain the agricultural beauty of Naruko. The project also focuses on countering the increasing trend of abandoned farmland in the mountainous regions. Thus, the Naruko Rice Project was born, emphasizing a collaborative effort between farmers and consumers.

Over the years, numerous activities have facilitated a direct connection between the producers and consumers, fostering an appreciation for agricultural practices and the importance of healthy eating.

The Birth of Yuki-Musubi

A highlight of the project's innovative endeavors is the creation of a new rice variety called Yuki-Musubi. In 2006, after acknowledging the challenges of producing quality rice in mountainous areas, the project conducted test cultivation of the Tohoku 181 rice strain. In 2007, Yuki-Musubi was born, carrying the hope of connecting people through rice. This cold-resilient rice variety exhibits traits of both sticky and non-sticky rice, making it ideally suited for various dishes, especially rice balls and bentos.

To ensure the preservation of traditional practices, the Naruko Rice Project utilizes a combination of modern and traditional harvesting techniques. The rice is harvested using binders and carefully dried by hanging, supported by volunteers known as the