Iwataya Mitsukoshi Ltd. (Fukuoka City) have revealed plans to begin cultivating rice in Karatsu City, Saga Prefecture. In a somewhat unexpected move, the Kyushu-based department store will make use of terraced rice-fields to harvest koshihikari rice in co-operation with local Japan Agricultural Cooperative groups. The Iwataya Mitsukoshi Farm is expected to harvest around 1 ton, with the rice due to hit Iwataya and Mitsukoshi shelves in early September. The aim is to help revitalize rice paddies that are facing an uncertain future, due to Japan’s ageing society and a lack of interest from potential successors.
Photo: 岩田屋三越提供
Source: Asahi Shimbun 4/19/2017
