Enjoy and preserve the Rice Fields landscapes nurtured by the agricultural culture of snow-covered regions through farming, art, and food.

The Rice Fields, nurtured by the agricultural culture of this snowy region, are not only places where rice is grown but also landscapes shaped by the interplay of snowmelt, the land’s topography, and human labor. As you harvest rice in the Echigo-Tsumari Art Field—dotted with artworks from the Echigo-Tsumari Art Triennale—immerse yourself fully in the agricultural culture of this snowy region through the scenery, the art, lunch, and meals shared during social gatherings.

The Rice Fields Preserved by Many Hands

This farming event is held as part of the “Matsudai Terraced Rice Fields Bank,” an agricultural project that originated from the “Echigo-Tsumari Art Field.” Together with staff, local fathers, FC Echigo-Tsumari players, and club members, we cultivate the terraced Rice Fields throughout the year—from rice planting to weeding and harvesting.In recent years, more than 100 people have gathered for the rice planting and harvesting events, making for a lively and bustling atmosphere. While the hands-on events are held three times a year, local staff manage the Rice Fields year-round—not only during rice planting and harvesting seasons but also through tasks such as water management, weeding, and crop maintenance.

Scenes from the Spring Rice Planting Event

In the spring, we take a few seedlings at a time and plant them in the soil of The Rice Fields at specified intervals. The task of planting the seedlings without knocking them over—while our feet sink into the mud—is more difficult than it looks. Participants encourage one another as they move forward step by step, planting seedlings across the entire Rice Field.

Scenes from the Fall Rice Harvest Event

To harvest rice in the fall, place the sickle at the base of the ripe rice plants and pull it toward you to cut the stalks. Align the cut rice so that it’s easy to move on to the next step. This process isn’t just about cutting the rice—neatly aligning and bundling it are also important parts of the work. On the day of the event, staff will explain how to use the sickle and provide tips on the work. Please maintain a safe distance from those around you and work safely.

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Event Overview

Date: October 3 (Sat) and 4 (Sun), 2026

Location: Matsudai NOHBUTAI Piloti
3743-1 Matsudai, Tokamachi city, Niigata Prefecture 942-1526
If you are coming by car, please use the parking lot at Matsudai NOHBUTAI.
After reception, groups will walk to The Rice Fields.

Fees: Non-members of the Matsudai Rice Fields Bank
Adults: 2,000 yen; Elementary and junior high school students: 1,000 yen; Rain boot rental: 500 yen
Fees differ for members of the Matsudai Rice Fields Bank.
＞Click here for Matsudai Rice Fields Bank members

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What to Expect on the Day of the Event

① Rice Harvesting

After reception, each group will head to The Rice Fields. Once we arrive, we’ll hold a briefing to go over how to use the sickles and other essentials before beginning the rice harvest. Come see for yourself how the rice seedlings you planted this spring have grown in The Rice Fields this fall. We’ll continue harvesting in the afternoon, but we’ve also scheduled nature observation activities for those interested.

② Wildlife Observation Session (for those interested)

We will invite an instructor from the Echigo-Matsunoyama Museum of Natural Science “Kyororo” to observe the creatures living within the Matsudai NOHBUTAI Field Museum. You may even encounter rare creatures that inhabit the rice paddies. If you would like to participate, please select this option when registering.

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Schedule for the Day

[Saturday, October 3]

[Sunday, October 4]

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Lunch

After the morning’s work, we’ll all gather for lunch. This is a time to socialize with other participants and staff while reflecting on the day’s work in The Rice Fields.
Price: Adults 1,200 yen, Children 600 yen
Menu: Saturday, October 3: Curry; Friday, October 4: Ginger Pork
*Please note that we are unable to accommodate food allergies. We appreciate your understanding.

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Clothing and Personal Belongings

In the Rice Fields, the ground may be muddy, and the rice plants or grass may brush against your skin. Please wear clothing that covers your skin—clothing you don’t mind getting dirty.

Items on Loan

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[Saturday, October 3 Only] Social Gathering

After the rice harvest on Saturday, October 3, we will hold a social gathering for anyone interested. Join us to reflect on the day over a meal with fellow members who worked up a sweat together, staff who tend the The Rice Fields daily, and local volunteers. The venue is semi-outside. Temperatures may drop in the evening, so please dress warmly.

Date and Time: Saturday, October 3, 5:15 PM – 7:00 PM (Intermission at 6:15 PM)
Venue: Matsudai NOHBUTAI Piloti
Fee: Adults 3,000 yen, Elementary school students 1,000 yen, Preschoolers 500 yen (includes meal and tea)

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q. Can I participate even if this is my first time harvesting rice?
Yes. Before we begin, we’ll explain how to use a sickle and handle the rice plants, and you’ll work alongside our staff and local volunteers. First-timers are welcome to join with confidence.

Q. Can children participate?
Yes, they can. Since the activity involves using sickles, children should work alongside a parent or guardian, depending on their age.

Q. What happens if it rains?
The event is scheduled to proceed in light rain. We will contact those who have registered in advance regarding any changes to the program or cancellations due to severe weather.

Q. Can I borrow rubber boots and gloves?
We will provide gloves and rice-planting boots. However, we do not have boots smaller than 22 cm, so please bring your own if needed. Quantities and sizes are limited.

Q. Is there parking available?
You may use the parking lot at Matsudai NOHBUTAI. After receiving your reception paperwork, groups will walk to The Rice Fields.

Q. Will photos taken during the event be published?
We may take photos and videos during the event for activity records and promotional purposes. If you do not wish to be photographed, please inform a staff member at reception.