Exploring the Charm of the Japanese Countryside: Rice Planting, Bamboo Cooking, and Akiya House Hunting

Living in the picturesque countryside of Shikoku, Mika, Jesse, and Pancake navigate the beauty of spring by engaging in traditional activities like rice planting and cooking bamboo shoots. Embracing the abundance of nature around them, they immerse themselves in the agricultural practices of the local community.

Rice planting, a communal effort that involves both manual labor and machinery, gives Mika and Jesse a hands-on experience in the intricate process of cultivating rice fields. Despite not owning their fields, the couple eagerly participates, gaining valuable insights into the meticulous care required for a successful harvest.

The culinary delights of the season come alive as they cook freshly cut bamboo shoots, a local delicacy shared generously by neighbors. Boiling the shoots in rice bran transforms them into tender, flavorful vegetables, offering a taste of spring’s bounty.

Beyond agricultural pursuits, Mika and Jesse embark on a quest to find a new akiya house, exploring scenic countryside neighborhoods and admiring the architectural treasures hidden within. While their current home holds sentimental value, they seek a larger space to accommodate their growing circle of friends and family.

As they journey through winding mountain roads in search of the perfect abode, the couple’s shared enthusiasm for each discovery reflects their profound connection to the Japanese countryside. Despite the allure of new prospects, they remain grateful for the warmth and memories their current home has provided.

In a heartfelt conclusion, Mika and Jesse express gratitude to their supporters and the community that has embraced them, promising to continue sharing the essence of rural Japan with their audience. Their commitment to honoring the past while embracing the future encapsulates the spirit of their journey in the Japanese countryside.