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Final Rice Planting at Hakutsuru Ginza Sky Farm

On May 28, 2026, Hakutsuru Sake Brewing successfully completed its last rice planting at the rooftop farm in Ginza, Tokyo, dedicated to cultivating their own sake rice varietal, Hakutsuru Nishiki. Despite concerns about rainfall, the weather turned favorable with some sunshine breaking through, making the day ideal for planting rice. This year marks the 20th anniversary of rice cultivation at the Ginza Sky Farm, established in 2007. However, due to significant building renovations, this marks the end of the sky farm's rice production.

The rice planting took place in May, allowing for maximized sunlight exposure. Hakutsuru aims for high-quality sake rice and increased yield this year.

Incorporating an educational initiative since 2009, Hakutsuru invites local elementary school students to experience rice planting and harvesting. On May 26, 74 students participated, some initially hesitant to enter the paddies, but most enjoyed their time and expressed their desire to return to observe the growth of the rice.

Participants in the Rice Planting

• - May 26: 74 elementary students
• - May 28: About 30 company employees
• - Guests: 2026 Miss Sake contestants from Aomori, Akita, Yamagata, Tokyo, and Okayama, who will compete in the final selection on June 13, aiming for the title of Miss Sake Japan.

Basic Information about Hakutsuru Ginza Sky Farm

• - Cultivated Area: 110 m² across seven plots
• - Height: Approximately 30 meters above ground
• - Soil Used: Lightweight rooftop greening soil, about 15 cm deep
• - Number of Plants: Roughly 1,700 rice plants
• - Harvest Period: Third week of October
• - Expected Yield: Approximately 45 kg of rice (43.4 kg in 2025)

Challenges Faced

Typical rice cultivation requires soil depths of about 60 cm, but rooftop constraints limit the depth to approximately 15 cm. This means extra efforts are needed to ensure adequate nutrition for the rice plants. Given that the rooftop is exposed to direct sunlight, maintaining water temperature and replenishing water is also critical. During peak summer, the water temperature can approach 35°C, prompting careful management techniques. Furthermore, disaster preparedness is essential, as rice is susceptible to strong winds; protective nets and ropes are utilized on windy days.

About Hakutsuru Ginza Sky Farm

The project began in 2007, fueled by a desire to promote Japanese sake culture from Ginza. by cultivating the self-developed sake rice Hakutsuru Nishiki. Initially, many doubted the feasibility of growing rice in urban rooftops, yet the first attempts in planters proved successful, leading to the establishment of the field the following year. Since then, efforts have focused on enhancing rice quality, and from 2013 onward, products brewed exclusively from rice harvested from the Ginza Sky Farm have been limited to select stores in Ginza.

Journey of Hakutsuru Ginza Sky Farm

• - 2007: Initiated cultivation using 100 planters and 41 barrels.
• - 2008: Completed construction of a rooftop rice paddie spanning around 110 square meters.
• - 2009: Launched educational rice planting and harvesting for local elementary students.
• - 2013: Marketed sake produced from 100% Hakutsuru Nishiki, exclusively sold in Ginza in limited quantities.
• - 2018: Opened rice planting and harvesting events for public participation, inviting also international students.
• - 2020: Events reduced due to COVID-19; cultivation continued primarily by employees.
• - End of 2026: Concludes rice cultivation owing to extensive building renovations.

Project Overview by Team Leader Ayumi Yamada

This year is particularly significant as the 20th rice planting year and the final year for rice cultivation in Ginza. While rising temperatures have posed challenges, the joy of harvesting quality rice, coupled with support from the community, has sustained the endeavor. Although the ending brings a sense of sadness, the current season, which has just begun, is viewed as an opportunity to maximize knowledge and experience, leading to a fitting conclusion to a decade-long project.

About Hakutsuru Nishiki

Hakutsuru Nishiki, developed in 2007, is a unique sake rice varietal. By crossing the historical rice varieties Yamada Ho (mother) and Wataribune No. 2 (father), it is regarded as a brother to Yamada Nishiki. Its distinctive characteristics include larger grains, a lower growth height, and a fresher taste compared to Yamada Nishiki. Updates on farming activities and plant growth are shared via Hakutsuru Ginza Sky Farm's official social media platforms, including Instagram and Facebook.

For inquiries, contact Hakutsuru Sake Brewing Customer Consultation Center at 078-856-7190 (Mon-Fri, 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM, excluding holidays). Visit the Hakutsuru website for more information.