A hands-on experience with Japan’s sustainable “Satoyama” agriculture and harvesting the finest ingredients.
At the core of the Japanese diet and indispensable comfort food is, of course, rice. Rice and a variety of vegetables are produced in the Asuka, Yamato region, yet a majority of the farmers cultivate their crops in addition to their standard occupations.
“Satoyama” is a traditional method of sustainable agriculture that has been perfected over centuries of humans coexisting in harmony with nature. Enjoy the freshest vegetables and the Asuka, Yamato region’s famous “Hinohikari” rice, enriched by a biodiverse ecosystem and an endlessly flowing, crystal-clear stream.
With our “Satoyama Farm Visit” plan, travelers can discover firsthand the unique relationship between agriculture and community that differs greatly from the larger commercial farms in the West.
For groups that are not able to include an overnight stay in their schedule, a rural farm visit together with lunch in a private home is a great way to experience typical Japanese domestic life.
Another option is a farm visit that includes morning or afternoon tea.
We are more than happy to provide quotes for smaller groups; however, the per-person cost is likely to be slightly higher.
What You Can Experience
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01EXPERIENCE
Harvest Seasonal Vegetables
Join our warm and welcoming local farmers to harvest fresh seasonal vegetables.
AVAILABLE: Year-round -
02EXPERIENCE
Rice Harvesting Experience
Come and discover how rice is grown on our farm. Experience the life of a rice farmer and try your hand at traditional harvesting activities.
Our friendly local farmers will guide you through the process of cutting the rice and tying it into bundles to be hung under the sun to dry — This is to ensure that the rice can absorb the flavors of the sun (and later be sold at a premium).AVAILABLE: September to October03EXPERIENCE
Wild Herb Picking
Explore the natural beauty of Asuka Village while picking wild herbs that grow freely in the area. Learn about their hidden health benefits and take part in a hands-on workshop focused on food or crafts.
Our knowledgeable guide will show you which wild herbs are edible and explain how they can support your well-being.AVAILABLE: Spring to Summer04EXPERIENCE
Rice Planting
Experience traditional rice planting the old-fashioned way—barefoot in the soft mud and water of the rice paddies. At first, the sensation may be a shock, but soon it becomes strangely comforting.
Local farmers will guide you as you take young rice seedlings and carefully replant them in the flooded fields, making sure they don’t sink too deep or float away.
Many find that settling into the gentle rhythm of planting becomes a calming and even therapeutic experience.AVAILABLE: May to June05EXPERIENCE
Tanada (Rice Terrace) Walk
Visit the beautiful terraced rice fields (tanada) of the Inabuchi area in Asuka. These iconic landscapes are carefully maintained by local farmers and NPOs working together to preserve the region’s rich rural heritage for future generations.
The terraced rice paddies nestled in Japan’s mountains are a living symbol of its history and culture. Within just a 30-minute walk, you’ll encounter some of the most breathtaking scenery in the country.AVAILABLE: Year-round06EXPERIENCE
Craft Making
In the past, Japanese people made ropes from rice straw and crafted various everyday tools by hand. Rather than discarding materials, they found ways to reuse them creatively. Although modern lifestyles have changed, these traditional skills still carry the wisdom of the past.
In this activity, you’ll try making a rope from rice straw and then create a lucky charm or wreath. It’s a wonderful way to connect with the ingenuity and spirit of Japan’s ancestors.AVAILABLE: Year-roundTIMELINE- 10:00 Meet at Asuka Station
- Enjoy a guided walk through the terraced rice fields (Tanada)
- Meet local farmers
- Take part in a farming activity of your choice
- Enjoy a picnic with a locally made lunch box
- Learn about sustainable agriculture in the Satoyama area
- Return drive to Asuka Station
- Free time to explore the village on your own
※Details of this plan can be customized to further meet individual needs or expectations.
Prices vary depending on the number of travelers. Please contact us for more details.Plan Your Visit
- Satoyama Farm Visit (Day Tour)
- A hands-on experience with Japan’s sustainable “Satoyama” agriculture and harvesting the finest ingredients.
- Show Details
- Cultural Cuisine Plan
- Stuffed with the World’s Intangible Cultural Heritage of Japanese “Washoku” cuisine.
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- Harmony With Nature Plan
- For adventurers that love to explore remote locations and flower spots that typical sightseeing tours cannot reach.
* Available from the end of March until early August. - Show Details
- Asuka Lifestyle and Culture Plan
- For those who simply want to connect with people, and learn more about Japanese culture. (e.g. Groups, Educational Trips, Corporate Training, etc.)
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