#Japan #Niigata #Joetsu #Minamoto Farm #Terukada

Discover Niigata's Terraced Rice Fields

On August 16 and 17, 2025, Pal System Tokyo will host an exclusive tour that connects participants with rice producers in Niigata Prefecture's Joetsu area. This immersive experience, held at Minamoto Farm, offers visitors the opportunity to engage directly with farmers while exploring the natural beauty and traditional practices of rice cultivation in Japan. The tour focuses on the cultivation of Koshihikari rice, a rice variety renowned for its exceptional flavor and quality.

The Farming Philosophy Behind Koshihikari Rice

Minamoto Farm, led by farmer Akio Nakamura, utilizes a unique farming method known as “Nagata Farming.” This approach drastically reduces chemical fertilizer use by 90% and pesticide use by 80%, focusing on nurturing the land to enhance the intrinsic taste of rice. This method is sometimes referred to as “Spartan Farming” for its rigorous and nature-focused techniques that prioritize taste over quantity. Visitors will learn firsthand about the dedication and hard work that goes into maintaining these terraced fields, which, while labor-intensive, are crucial for preserving the cultural and environmental heritage of the region.

As participants stroll through the terraced rice fields, they will have the chance to observe the diverse ecosystem supported by these sustainable practices. The absence of chemical pesticides allows various organisms to thrive, reflecting the harmony between local agriculture and the natural environment.

Engaging Activities and Local Culture

The tour is designed to provide a comprehensive cultural experience. Participants will have hands-on opportunities like making konjac, a traditional food product, and hiking the scenic Okamidake Mountain. They'll also visit the unique blue soybean fields cultivated exclusively in Joetsu’s Yoshikawa area.

The two-day itinerary includes:

• - Day 1: Konjac making, educational sessions about local agriculture, terraced field walking tours, and an evening dinner for networking.
• - Day 2: Hiking in Okamidake, exploring blue soybean fields, conducting surveys on terraced field ecosystems, and shopping at a local sake brewery, Yoshikawa Tsuji's Village.

Connection Between Production and Consumption

The relationship between consumers and producers has never been more important, and Pal System Tokyo is committed to bridging this gap. Through ongoing engagement with local farms like Minamoto, they aim to elevate awareness about food production and sustainable practices while allowing consumers to establish genuine connections with the sources of their food.

By participating in this tour, individuals will not only gain insight into sustainable agriculture but also contribute to a more profound understanding of local biodiversity and cultural practices that define the region.

Join us in this adventure that celebrates food, nature, and community, and discover the true essence of Japanese agriculture!

About Pal System Tokyo

Pal System Tokyo is located at 2-2-6 Okubo, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, and is led by Chairperson Yoko Nishimura. The cooperative is dedicated to fostering a sustainable food system, with a member base of approximately 539,000 and total business revenue of 883.2 billion yen as of March 2025. They collaborate with numerous local producers to create engaging experiences that enhance consumer education on food production.

For more information about the event and participation details, visit Pal System Tokyo's website.

2025 marks the International Year of Cooperatives, making it a vital year for collaboration and community engagement in local agricultural practices.