Tuxedo farmer’s rice dreams

 

Rice farming in Japan is an old folks’ business. The average age of a farmer is over 65, and the nation is having trouble recruiting a new generation.

But one young farmer in northern Japan wants to change that.

Saito Kiyoto is 25. He was born here and went away to study architecture.

But Saito moved back after he got married last year.

Saito says the idea to wear a suit began as a joke, but he hopes his unusual look will make people curious about farming.

His dad is teaching him how to farm. He says he was surprised at first, but if that’s what his son wants to do, why not?

Saito even started a blog about rice farming. He says he wants people to learn where their rice comes from.

Today, the young farmers of the town hold a study session.

Saito says farming’s uncool image drives many young people away.

To promote their mission young farmers in the area decided to launch a new brand of rice.

Today, they check on how it’s doing. It’s a chance to learn from the experts.

Saito decided to grow vegetables this year. He says he has to try things on his own and not just follow in his parents’ footsteps.

He says he wants to be Japan’s most famous farmer.

Saito says if people are more aware of farming, it will draw young people back to the fields.

Japan may have just found an answer to a problem that, well, suits the times.