SENMAIDA
September 5, 2021 Translated by Kelly Yeunh
The Sound of Waves
Shiroyone Senmaida in Wajima City, where 1004 rice fields flourish from the mountain slopes to the coast. By being so close to the sea, the rustling of the waves echoes in one’s ears, even while standing in the rice fields. On the horizon in the distance, the sun sets.Harmony of Nature
Satoyama Satoumi culture in Noto was born through a dialogue between humans and nature over many years. Rachel Carson wrote in her last work, “Sense Of Wonder”, that she wants her children to be given “a sense of curiosity and openness to mystery.” The agriculture in Noto fully optimizes the natural landscape and climate and as it flourishes, so does a sense of personal fascination.
Satoyama + Satoumi Life
Satoyama is a place inhabited by various creatures and a biodiverse culture that is unique to the area, continually nurtured alongside human residents’ everyday activity. While gleaning the blessings the sea has to offer, Satoumi residents maintain a rich environment for the preservation of marine life, thereby maintaining balance in the region. In 2011, Satoyama Satoumi in Noto was designated as Japan’s first International Agricultural Heritage Site.Know-how
If you want to learn more about Satoyama Satoumi culture, it is recommended that you first use the owner system and have your own rice fields. Through cultivation work seven times a year, one is able to contribute to the conservation of the landscape and revitalization in the region of Senmaida.
Live with Nature
The Noto Peninsula is surrounded by the sea on three sides: Sotoura, Uchiura, and Nanao Bay. By the residents and nature coexisting as a natural part of daily life, the local biodiversity and preservation of rare creatures is maintained.
