Indigenous millets : necessary factor of the food culture in this area
In the Higashi Otani area of Wakimachi, Mima City, local residents have traditionally cultivated indigenous millets on steep slopes, developing specialized techniques for their preservation. These agricultural practices are a significant aspect of the region’s food culture. Notably, buckwheat cultivated in this area is widely used in the preparation of soba gome, a traditional buckwheat soup that is a staple of local cuisine. Additionally, soba-making workshops have become popular attractions for tourists, promoting cultural exchange and regional heritage.
The Mimura area, located within the Higashi Otani village at an elevation of approximately 500 meters, offers a panoramic view of the surrounding landscape. Through international work camps and other community activities, the Mimura area actively welcomes volunteers from outside the region, fostering cultural and agricultural engagement. On the community farmland, residents and volunteers interact to promote the conservation of the Nishi-Awa Steep Slope Land Agriculture System and landscape.
