Oyama Senmaida: A Timeless Landscape

The owner system permits new farmers to take a one-year ownership–from April to March–of a section of the rice fields, allowing them to enjoy hands-on farming experiences like planting rice and weeding. Of course, the owner system includes harvesting privileges, but should it prove too difficult for first-time farmers, local farmers will assist with the task. The concept is that you don’t have to tend the fields every single day of the year; you can farm for your pleasure, and at your leisure.

The system was conceived as a measure to conserve Japanese culture. Since fewer young people were choosing to take up farming as a career choice, and the stewardship of rice fields had also seen a steep decline in popularity, Oyama Senmaida took it upon themselves to propagate knowledge of farming, farmers’ lifestyles, and the culture of farming; in order to conserve a fading, but integral part of Japanese culture. The NPO also organized activities to teach people about the details of the trade; like how to tie rice with straw and dry it in the fall, and other seasonal activities like rice planting and harvesting.

Should foreign residents–or foreign tourists–be hesitant to participate in any of the activities, due to a lack of fluency in the Japanese language, Oyama Senmaida would like to assure you that they do have English speaking staff to assist you with your reservations and participation. If you are interested in trying out a hands-on experience here, we recommend contacting Boso Adventure Tours, who also arrange a custom tour for you.

Mr. Asada, Secretary General of Oyama Senmaida, says he would like to continue to expound the good points of domestic agricultural products and farming culture. He thinks this work will lead to the training of successors; to carry on the proud traditions this region has practiced for millennia. To achieve those goals, he says, Oyama Senmaida plans workshops for university students, and exchanges between urban and rural areas. “Through such activities,” he says, “we hope that not only urban people will learn new experiences, but also that rural people will be able to reaffirm their value.”

One way to access Oyama Senmaida is to take a train to JR Awa-Kamogawa Station, and then to board a bus. However, the bus only runs every three hours, and the nearest bus stop to your destination is a twenty-minute walk away. For those who do not have the option of driving themselves, taking the 13-kiolmeter taxi ride from Awa-Kamogawa Station may be the most convenient route, but also a relatively costly one.