Hokkaido's vast countryside is brimming with delicious and fun experiences that go beyond just eating. Did you know there are places where you can directly connect with the region's charm? We'd like to introduce you to Kitagorin Farm, a farm in Shibetsu City that has been loved for over 20 years for its rice-growing experience. It is one of Hokkaido's registered 'Fureai Farms,' which provide opportunities to engage with the appeal of agriculture and rural villages through farming experiences.

Experience the Entire Rice-Growing Process Through the Seasons

"We want people to experience nature with all five senses," they say, which is why rice planting is done barefoot. Participants get muddy as they carefully plant each seedling one by one.

Kitagorin Farm in Shibetsu, Hokkaido, was established in 2002 by three farmers with a shared vision: "to close the distance between consumers and farmers," "to deepen bonds with family and friends while feeling the warmth of the rice paddies and soil," and "to widely share the deliciousness of Kamishibetsu's rice."

Its most distinctive feature is the opportunity to experience the entire rice-growing process throughout the season, from planting to harvesting and *hasa-gake* (rack-drying). The farm rents out 23 plots of land, with each plot expected to yield about 40-50 kg of rice. The traditional method of natural drying using *hasa-gake* racks is another one of its charms.

*Hasa-gake*, where the harvested rice is bundled and hung. You can experience the traditional way of drying rice.

Mr. Igarashi raises many animals, and participants sometimes come to interact with them.

Watching the rice grow and sharing the joy of harvest holds great educational and emotional value, which is why some schools have incorporated it as part of their curriculum.

"The Taste of Rice You've Grown Yourself is Exceptional." The Experience Will Continue for Local Residents.

The farm's name, Kitagorin, comes from the first characters of the three founding farmers' names: Kitaoka, Igarashi, and Suzuki (Kita-Go-Rin). Mr. Kitaoka provides the rice paddies.

"It's fine for people to get involved at their own pace. The taste of rice you've grown yourself is exceptional," says Mr. Igarashi. Participants are free to weed diligently or just join for the planting and harvesting. Reservations are accepted starting in the spring, but please be aware that this program is primarily intended for local residents.