Country Life

by Robert George, Jan 2, 2003 | Destinations: Japan / Tokyo

Rural life in Gunma Prefecture moves at a much slower pace than the typical urban existence in Tokyo.

Rural life in Gunma Prefecture moves at a much slower pace than the typical urban existence in Tokyo.

Image © 2002 Robert George

Rural life in Gunma Prefecture moves at a much slower pace than the typical urban existence in Tokyo.

Rice is Japan's most important agricultural crop. And although only 15% of Japan's landmass is suitable for cultivation, 14 million acres are planted with rice, many of them postage-stamp sized family farms nestled in vacant lots between suburban buildings.

Rice is Japan's most important agricultural crop. And although only 15% of Japan's landmass is suitable for cultivation, 14 million acres are planted with rice, many of them postage-stamp sized family farms nestled in vacant lots between suburban buildings.

Rice is Japan's most important agricultural crop. And although only 15% of Japan's landmass is suitable for cultivation, 14 million acres are planted with rice, many of them postage-stamp sized family farms nestled in vacant lots between suburban buildings.

A story told with photos.

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The Tokyo district of Rygoku is home of one of Japan's most famous Sumo wrestling facilities. Sumo wrestlers train very strenuously for their six annual basho tournaments, and must consume up to 10,000 calories a day to achieve and maintain their enormous stature. When they're not in training however, they can be seen strolling the city sidewalks wearing blue and white cotton robes called yukata.

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