Let’s Enjoy Summer in Matsudai!
During the day, participants will split into three groups (grass cutting, wildlife observation, and vegetable harvesting and cooking) to fully enjoy summer in the satoyama. Whether working up a sweat in the Rice Fields and vegetable patches, searching for wildlife, or savoring freshly harvested vegetables, each activity offers a chance to experience the nature and way of life in Echigo-Tsumari.In the evening, enjoy a BBQ while watching the spectacular fireworks launched right before your eyes. Another highlight of this event is the chance to socialize with other participants as you reflect on the day’s experiences.

Although this event is organized by the “Matsudai Rice Fields Bank,” non-members are also welcome to join. Whether you come alone, with family, or with friends, you’re more than welcome. Let’s create summer memories together through experiences and interactions in the satoyama. Please feel free to join us.

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Overview

Date: Saturday, July 18, 2026
Reception Location: Matsudai NOHBUTAI Piloti
*This event is open to non-members of the Matsudai Terraced Rice Fields Bank as well.
*A 2-night, 3-day children’s program called “Echigo-Tsumari Forest School,” which includes this event, will also be held.

Detailed Schedule

1:00 PM–1:20 PM: Reception
1:20 PM–: Orientation and program start
Around 4:30 PM: End of program
★4:45 PM–6:15 PM: Hot springs at Matsudai Shibatoge Onsen “Unkai”
★6:30 PM–8:00 PM: Social gathering (Fireworks start at 7:30 PM)
*Events marked with ★ require reservations.

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Program Details

① Farm Work Team: No limit on the number of participants

You’ll experience summer farm work—such as mowing grass and raising the riverbanks—in the rice paddies where Ilya & Emilia Kabakov’s artwork “The Rice Fields” is located. We’ll also introduce you to summer farm tasks that you don’t usually get to see.

② Wildlife Observation Team: Capacity: 20 people (first-come, first-served)

Join our wildlife expert to observe the various creatures living within the Matsudai NOHBUTAI Field Museum. You’ll sketch the creatures you observe and make your own pin badges. You’ll also give a presentation about the creatures you observed at an evening social gathering, learning about wildlife while having fun. This program is also recommended for summer vacation research projects.
*For safety reasons, please refrain from wearing sandals when participating in the wildlife observation team. Insect cages, insect nets, and dip nets will be provided by the organizers.

③ Farm Team: Capacity: 25 people (first-come, first-served)

Let’s harvest summer vegetables from the fields and have fun cooking dishes made with these fresh produce together with local mothers. While experiencing the energy and warmth of these mothers, you’ll get to savor the unique summer flavors of this region.

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Fees and Registration

Matsudai Rice Fields Bank Member

Adults: 3,500 yen, Elementary school students: 1,500 yen, Preschoolers: 500 yen
*The prices listed are examples for participants who rent rubber boots and attend the social gathering. Members may select only the options they need. Please check the application form for details.
*As with our regular farm work events, if the number of participants exceeds the free participation limit—”Standard Course: Participant + 2 guests; Small Group Course: Participant only”—a participation fee will be charged.

Those who are not members of the Matsudai Rice Fields Club

Adults: 5,500 yen, Elementary school students: 2,500 yen, Preschoolers: 1,500 yen
*This is a flat fee that includes the program fee, rubber boot rental, and social event fee. The fee remains the same even if you do not rent rubber boots or participate in the social event.

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Accommodations

Location: Sansho House
Accommodation Plan: 1 night with breakfast included
Check-in: July 18 (Sat) 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM; Check-out: July 19 (Sun) by 10:00 AM
Rates: Adults 5,380 yen, Elementary school students 4,250 yen, Preschoolers 3,900 yen (900 yen when sharing a bed)

To make a reservation, you will need the <PASSWORD listed on the event registration form>. After completing your event registration, please select the “Matsudai Rice Fields Bank” accommodation plan <HERE> to make your reservation. Reception will close once capacity is reached.

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Matsudai Rice Fields Bank

This program is part of the activities of the “Matsudai Terraced Rice Fields Bank,” which works to preserve the satoyama landscapes of Echigo-Tsumari through urban-rural exchange. The Matsudai Terraced Rice Fields Bank is currently recruiting members for fiscal year 2026.