Wasabi Cultivation Experience Program in Masuda
This is a local experience program in Masuda City, Shimane Prefecture, focused on wasabi cultivation. The program has finished accepting applications. The location is within the Hikimi Kami area (匹見上地区), involving work in wasabi valleys and vinyl greenhouses. The schedule is flexible until early April, with individual arrangements made upon request. The application deadline was March 31st (Tuesday).
The program description notes that Hikimi has been a famous wasabi production area since the Edo period. However, due to an aging population, more farmers are giving up cultivation, leading to an increase in abandoned farmland. Participants in this program will experience clearing stones and wood from wasabi fields to prepare the environment for restarting cultivation. Work in the vinyl greenhouse, where wasabi seedlings are grown, is also possible. Tasks include weeding, applying fertilizer, tilling, and planting seedlings, depending on the season.
A message from the person in charge invites participants to experience the local nature and culture while contributing to the future of the region. The program targets students interested in regional revitalization and agriculture. There is no compensation (報酬の有無なし). The capacity is 1 to 10 people. A preliminary online meeting will be held to explain the current situation of the area and the work content. The program is affiliated with the Hikimi Shimo Kominkan (匹見下公民館).
