Key Facts
• September 15: Rice harvesting began at Shiroyone Senmaida, Wajima City, Ishikawa Prefecture.
• Over 60 volunteers joined, including local and external participants.
• 250 rice paddies were planted in May, more than double last year’s 120 paddies.
• Shiroyone Senmaida suffered severe damage from the Noto Peninsula earthquake and heavy rains.
• Organic farming was implemented to prepare for the release of crested ibises in June 2024.
• Volunteers weeded each paddy 5–6 times due to rapid weed growth.
• Harvested rice will be sold as rice balls at the roadside station “Senmaida Pocket Park” starting mid-October.
• The “Aze no Kirameki” LED light event will not be held this year due to earthquake damage.
• Rice harvesting continues until September 21, weather permitting.
Summary
The iconic Shiroyone Senmaida rice terraces in Wajima City, Ishikawa Prefecture, began their annual rice harvest on September 15, with over 60 volunteers participating. Despite significant damage from the Noto Peninsula earthquake and heavy rains, restoration efforts allowed for the planting of 250 paddies this year, more than double last year’s count. Organic farming was introduced to support the release of crested ibises in 2024, requiring extensive weeding by volunteers. Harvested rice will be sold as rice balls at a nearby roadside station starting mid-October. However, the “Aze no Kirameki” LED light event remains canceled due to infrastructure damage. Harvesting will continue until September 21, weather permitting.
