Week 40-41: The Agricultural News of Japan in English
Automation, drones, rice, tuna and more.
Automation, drones, rice, tuna and more.
Saturday, 7 October 2017
Poop powering hydrogen cars in Hokkaido
A Japanese publisher once had great success with an exercise book for learning kanji, or Chinese characters, by inserting the word “poop” into every sample sentence. But adults are now finding a more serious use for the pungent substance.
Monday, 9 October 2017
Yanmar-Konica Minolta venture pushes automation of nation’s agriculture
Farm equipment manufacturer Yanmar Co. and precision equipment maker Konica Minolta Inc. are pushing the automation of Japan’s agriculture amid an aging and decreasing farming population.
Tuesday, 10 October 2017
Drones to protect farms from wildlife — and wildlife from us
A Japanese startup is taking to the skies to help farmers keep wildlife at bay on the ground.
Skyrobot, the Tokyo-based venture, is set to launch a drone service to spot animals that are about to come down from the mountains to harm crops — and potentially people.
Tuesday, 10 October 2017
Despite scandal, imported rice demand remains high in Japan
Demand for imported rice to Japan has been strong, despite tightened rules on auctions following the exposing of a scandal around adjustment money been paid by importers to wholesalers last year.
Wednesday, 11 October 2017
Green pancakes that change color to the delight of kids
The pancake batter mixed with blueberry jam is purple.
When cooked, the inside turns light green. When a stack is cut open and lemon syrup is poured, the cut surface turns … pink this time.
Thursday, 12 October 2017
Full bluefin tuna farm shares rise as fish stocks dwindle
Full farming of bluefin tuna, which starts with getting the fish to spawn in a completely artificial environment, is finally showing signs of becoming profitable.