Encounter with Shumei Natural Agriculture
Shortly after I was born, I suffered from asthma and atopic dermatitis. My atopic condition, in particular, was severe, and I relied on corticosteroids for over a decade. It was during this difficult time that I encountered this method of farming.
Since then, I have embraced the principles of adapting to and respecting nature, aiming to practice agriculture in harmony with all living things.
In 1993, plagued by severe atopic dermatitis and feeling utterly desperate, I immersed myself in the world of natural agriculture and began my training in Naganuma. A few years later, seeking pure water and beautiful natural surroundings, I arrived in Imakane, known for having Japan’s clearest streams.
Later, I was invited to Setana, an early adopter of organic farming. The moment I first set foot in the current fields, I intuitively felt, “This is the place!” It was just as I had imagined: a red bridge, a flowing river, a row of small rice paddies, and a road leading into the mountains—a world that mirrored my vision of an ideal place.
In April 2004, I began practicing Shumei Natural Agriculture here. By April 2005, I officially launched my farm under the name Shumei Natural Farm Hokkaido Co., Ltd. Working under the sun and covered in soil while improving my diet, I’ve come to maintain a healthy body without relying on any medication—even though my allergy level measures 2400 IGE (the average for a healthy adult is 170–240 IGE).
Through agriculture, I hope to share my experiences and gratitude with many others.
In 2008, I formed a natural farming collective called “Yama no Kai” with four other farmers in the region. With the motto “World peace through agriculture,” we’ve hosted farmer’s markets, restaurant events, and youth education programs. Our group even became the model for the 2019 film “Restaurant in the Sky”.
Lessons from Nature
On rainy days: cultivate in the sun, reflect and create in the rain. I play the guitar, watch movies, draw pictures, or browse photography books.
One day, I realized that farm work is similar to music or painting, especially in how it demands concentration. When I’m in the fields, I feel inspired to draw or create music.
Just as eating and farming are inseparable, I work thoroughly on sunny days and rest my body on rainy ones, spending time with the arts.
Step by step, I strive for “Fūga no Makoto”*—a life of graceful sincerity. All of this aligns with the philosophy of Shumei Natural Agriculture.
*A term coined by the poet Matsuo Bashō, referring to a state of transcendent harmony with nature.
Message
The murmuring of rivers, rustling of leaves, lowing of cows, chirping of birds, and voices of insects.
The vast blue sky, the sunset stretching over the sea, and the twinkling stars—
Nature resembles a symphony. Its beautiful landscapes unfold like paintings, captivating the heart.
Likewise, when we eat delicious food, we smile, feel joy, and are wrapped in a peaceful spirit.
I wish for the next generation, and their children, to live wonderful lives filled with gratitude for nature and the joy of sharing its blessings.
Peace begins with a happy table.
May more people join this way of living, and may it ultimately contribute to world peace.
