JA Miyagi Tome Insider Studios
The city of Tome has long been famous for its rice. Now the city has become one of the first areas to promote environmentally friendly rice production.
Drones are one example of how innovative technology can make up for labor shortages.
Tome s quality rice is earning praise not only at home but abroad, and is expanding its exports.
Miyagi prefecture isn t just the economic and cultural hub of Japan s northeastern Tohoku region. Its fertile alluvial plains also make it one of the nation s major rice producers. Tome, a city in the northern part of the prefecture, has been celebrated for its rice for centuries. Recently, Tome-area growers have joined forces to develop and market their own brand of top-quality rice.
Takayama Winery Insider Studios
Shinshu Takayama Winery in central Japan has been using technology to monitor and manage its vineyards and improve the quality of its wines.
Farmers are harnessing scientific data about climate and soil condition to determine when to harvest or use fertilizer, depending on the variety of grapes grown.
The winery is trying to establish wine-making as a new industry for the region and ultimately gain international recognition for its products.
The village of Takayama is tucked away in the foothills of the picturesque Japanese Alps in Nagano prefecture, also known as Shinshu by another name. Traditionally the area has been known for skiing and its apples which are highly regarded both within and outside the prefecture. But now it s grabbing global attention for another reason – its wine.