Blessings of the Steep Slope
In Kiriu village in Tsurugi town, indigenous subsistence agriculture has been developed, featuring small-scale, multi-crop cultivation that maximizes the use of narrow fields on steep slopes.
Biodiversity
Despite its small size, the area supports rich biodiversity, with a high proportion of Indigenous plant species and several valuable animal species.
Recycling-Oriented Agriculture Using Kaya
Vegetables and fruits are grown in sloped fields, where kaya straw is ploughed into the soil to prevent soil erosion, enrich fertility, and control weed. Additionally, the creation of "koeguro", a symbol of Nishi Awa, has been ongoing for many years.
Indigenous agricultural tools associated with local environments
A varieties of farming tools have been uniquely developed to suit the steep slopes of the fields. These tools are used for specialized tasks, such as Tsuchiage, a technique that returns displaced soil to the top of the slope.
Landscape with sloping villages and kayaba
The area is densely covered with fields so steep that standing upright is difficult. Even from the town road, one can observe the striking elevation differences in the landscape. Kayaba, used for collecting kaya straw, is located near the village, and the scenery changes seasonally.
Related Links
Interview
Tsurugi Life Improvement Promotion Council Ichiu group | The People Supporting Globally Important Agricultural Heritage System
Tsurugi Life Improvement Promotion Council Ichiu group（Tsurugi Town） “Sadanojo dango” is filled with mugwort and mashed sweet bean paste. This popular delicacy is produced by the Tsurugi Life Improvement Promotion Council Ichiu group. The term “Sadanojo” derives from Tani Sadanojo, a village headman of Ichiu who was executed for directly appealing to the villagers for help during the Edo period. The mugwort used for dango is harvested annually by group members in mid-April from the mountains of the Ichiu area. Thereafter, it is preserved through freezing and used for dango production from spring to fall. These dango are sold at the Shakunage Market, which operates exclusively on Sundays from March […]
