The annual harvest of sacred rice in Takayama, Gifu Prefecture, began on Saturday. Known as Kuruma-da, these circular rice paddies hold great cultural significance and are designated as an important intangible folk cultural asset by the prefecture. In the past, they were considered a sacred site for producing rice offerings for Ise Jingu shrine. The Kuruma-da preservation group, consisting of local residents, is responsible for managing and maintaining this approximately 340-square-meter field.
Thirteen participants took part in the harvest wearing matching happi coats and traditional hats. Using sickles, they carefully harvested the Hitomebore brand rice that had been planted in concentric circles within the paddies. In previous years, the harvested rice was exclusively sold to preservation group members. However, this year marks a change as it will be available to the general public for purchase.
Shigeki Omori, chairman of the preservation group at 70 years old, expressed his satisfaction with this year’s crop and emphasized his desire to pass down their region’s traditional culture to future generations.
The Kuruma-da harvest serves not only as an opportunity to celebrate local traditions but also highlights the importance of preserving intangible cultural assets like these circular rice paddies. By opening up sales to the public this year, more people will have access to experience and appreciate this unique aspect of Japanese culture.
