Hands-on Training: Rice Planting in Nagano

At Ricefriend, we believe that truly delivering value to our customers begins with understanding the product at its source. While much of our work happens in the office or at the logistics level, we know that rice is more than just a commodity—it’s the result of dedication, craftsmanship, and deep respect for nature.
As part of our ongoing staff development program, we organize regular hands-on training sessions that allow our team to engage directly with the production side of rice. In May, our training took place in the beautiful Nagano Prefecture, a region renowned for its pristine stream water, high-altitude climate, and rich natural environment—all essential elements in producing high-quality Japanese rice.

Our team participated in organic rice planting, working alongside experienced farmers to learn about the challenges and precision involved in cultivating rice without synthetic fertilizers or pesticides. It was a humbling and eye-opening experience that reminded us just how much effort goes into growing each grain.
Through this program, we aim to deepen our staff’s knowledge of rice cultivation and strengthen their appreciation for the people and natural conditions behind the product. This real-world understanding allows us to communicate more authentically with our customers and partners, and to offer rice that we truly stand behind—not only in terms of quality, but also in terms of story and origin.

We are proud to be part of a supply chain that honors both tradition and innovation, and we will continue to invest in opportunities for our team to grow closer to the land, the people, and the culture that make Japanese rice so special.
Thank you for supporting us as we strive to bring the best of Japan’s rice to the world—with knowledge, respect, and heart.