Why Nagano rice ranks among the highest in Japan

When most people think of high-quality Japanese rice, Niigata often comes to mind. But tucked away in the mountainous heart of Japan, Nagano Prefecture quietly produces some of the country’s best rice.

Known for its pristine water, cool climate, and carefully honed farming practices, Nagano’s rice has earned a devoted following across Japan.

A Natural Environment Perfect for Rice

Nagano’s geography plays a key role in shaping the flavor and quality of rice. The region enjoys long daylight hours and large temperature swings between day and night - conditions that help rice grains accumulate more nutrients and flavor.

Surrounded by mountains, Nagano also benefits from a cool climate, which naturally reduces the presence of pests and diseases. As a result, farmers here can grow rice with very low pesticide use, making it not only delicious but also environmentally friendly.

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Another essential factor is water. Nagano’s rice fields are irrigated by rivers such as the Chikuma, Kiso, and Tenryu, which are fed by snowmelt from the surrounding mountains.

This exceptionally clean, mineral-rich water contributes to the distinct purity and depth of flavor found in Nagano rice.

Consistently High-Quality Production

In terms of both volume and quality, Nagano ranks among Japan’s top rice-producing regions. The yield per quarter-acre is higher than that of traditional rice powerhouses like Yamagata and Akita, reflecting the area’s ideal farming conditions. Even more impressive is the quality rating.

Rice grown in Nagano consistently achieves a high percentage of Grade 1 ratings in national inspections, a standard based on appearance, grain size, and lack of imperfections.

The Koshihikari variety grown in Nagano is especially renowned. It has received numerous awards at national competitions, thanks to both the region’s natural advantages and the skill of its farmers. With a glossy finish, balanced sweetness, and firm texture, Nagano-grown Koshihikari rivals the best in Japan.

Where the Best Nagano Rice is Grown

Nagano is divided into four main regions - Hokushin (North), Toshin (East), Chushin (Central), and Nanshin (South) - all of which grow Koshihikari rice.

Among them, the Iiyama area in the north stands out. Located in a basin surrounded by mountains, Iiyama benefits from the clean waters of the Chikuma River and heavy snowfall in winter.

These snow-covered forests release nutrient-rich water in spring, nourishing the fields below. 

Other notable regions include Azumino, known for its wasabi farms and clear spring water; and the Saku and Ueda areas, where the sharp difference between day and night temperatures contributes to flavorful, dense rice grains.

Each of these areas combines natural resources with generations of farming expertise.

Rice Varieties Grown in Nagano

While Koshihikari makes up about 70% of Nagano’s rice production, farmers also cultivate several other varieties that suit the region’s climate and terrain. These include Akita Komachi, Kazesayaka, Hitomebore, and Milky Queen. Each variety offers its own texture and flavor profile, giving consumers a wide range of options beyond the familiar.

Recommended Brands to Try

Several Nagano rice producers stand out for their commitment to quality and sustainable farming. Faith Farm, run by Naoya Mizuno in Iiyama City, grows a Koshihikari variety called “Hotaru” using mineral-rich spring water in a snowy highland environment. The result is rice with a rich sweetness and beautiful luster.

While the above farm is not in Nagano, this 20 minute documentary does a great job explaining a day in the life of an organic rice farmer through the eyes of a Singaporean who came to Japan and now farms rice.

Another standout is Nakamura Farm in Saku City, where Masanao Nakamura grows specially cultivated Koshihikari using 100% organic fertilizer. Certified as an “Environmentally Friendly Agricultural Product of Shinshu,” his rice is as gentle on the land as it is satisfying on the plate.

Discover the Taste of Nagano

If you’re looking for rice that’s grown with care, nourished by mountain waters, and backed by generations of agricultural wisdom, Nagano deserves your attention. Its rice is not only clean and flavorful but also a reflection of the region’s deep connection to nature.

Explore more about Nagano rice - and taste the difference for yourself.

Source:

Okome Magazine