#Japan #Palsystem Tokyo #Yamagata Rice Fields #Biodiversity Tour #Nagai

Explore the Rich Biodiversity of Yamagata's Rice Fields

From June 21 to 22, 2025, Palsystem Tokyo invites you to participate in an immersive experience at JA Yamagata Okutama's cultivated rice fields in the scenic Yamagata region. This tour offers a unique opportunity to engage with local farmers while learning about biodiversity, eco-friendly farming practices, and the rice cultivation process that thrives amidst the clear waters of the Mogami River.

Discover the Life of Rice Fields

The adventure begins at Tokyo Station, where participants will travel via Shinkansen and the Flower Nagai Line, which boasts a history of over 100 years. A special dialect-speaking guide will accompany the group, sharing insights about the picturesque rural landscapes along the way.

Upon arrival at Nagai Station, a warm welcome from approximately 25 local farmers awaits. Participants will get their hands dirty as they actively partake in rice field maintenance, removing weeds that grow alongside the rice and minimizing the use of pesticides.

After the tiring yet fulfilling experience of weed removal, participants will investigate the rejuvenated rice fields, searching for various forms of wildlife that inhabit these ecosystems. This investigation not only includes identifying different species but also understanding their significance in fostering environmental conservation through sustainable agriculture. Learning about the fauna living in these rice fields adds depth to the appreciation of local ecosystems and the practices of cultivating rice in harmony with nature.

The Day Ends with Culinary Delights

To wrap up the first day, participants will relax at the "Unohana Onsen Hagi no Yu," washing away the fatigue and rice field mud, followed by a communal dinner with the farmers. Guests will enjoy seasonally inspired dishes while learning more about the cultivation processes stemming from the bountiful waters of the Mogami River and the fertile soils of the Okutama basin. This meal fosters a sense of gratitude and understanding between producers and consumers regarding the agricultural journey from farm to table.

Embracing Sustainable Community Practices

On the second day, the tour curriculum includes a visit to the Nagai Dam, one of the largest in the Tohoku region, paired with a nature walk amid Okutama's rich natural surroundings. Here, participants will witness agricultural irrigation systems powered by the waters of the Nagai Dam, which also supports a local micro-hydroelectric power station.

Within this facility, electricity generated from renewable energy sources is directly provided to users via Palsystem Electric, promoting sustainability in regional resource management while intertwining this with rice production. Participants will gain firsthand experience of how these initiatives help create a resource-circulating community.

Additionally, the tour will include a creative workshop at the local community center, where participants can engage in crafting their unique kendamas—traditional Japanese juggling toys—while also enjoying performances showcasing advanced kendama skills from professionals.



After relishing Yamagata's regional cuisine for lunch, the group will visit the "Kawa no Minato Nagai" roadside station for some shopping, allowing participants to take home a piece of the local culture before heading back to Tokyo.

The Power of Collaborative Agriculture

JA Yamagata Okutama is committed to fostering sustainable farming practices, primarily through their special cultivation of rice varieties like "Eco Yamagata Tsuyahime" and "Eco Yamagata Sasanishiki," as well as others such as "Yamagata Yukiwakamaru" and "Yamagata Haenuki." Since implementing a public review process in 2002, which eliminates aerial pesticide application within the Nagai city area, JA has taken a lead role in promoting reduced pesticide use, enhancing the overall quality and sustainability of rice production.

Palsystem continuously holds various field engagement events, striving to create visible connections between consumers and producers. Palsystem Tokyo is dedicated to narrowing the gap between these two parties, enhancing the collaborative power that supports sustainable food systems and farming.

With the tagline, "Let's Learn About Living Beings in Rice Fields, Create Original Kendamas, and Understand Agriculture and Renewable Energy," this two-day event promises to be enlightening and interactive.

Event Details:
Date: June 21-22, 2025
Location: Nagai City, Yamagata Prefecture

Discover more about Palsystem's direct farms at: Palsystem Tokyo
Palsystem: your partner in sustainable agriculture and community development.