Abstract
This paper examines conditions for sustainable rural development utilizing local resources. The study area is Shirao-cho community in Omihachiman City, where they grow brewers' rice on a small island in Lake Nishinoko. Based on the island, the residents engage a variety of activities such as the provision of farming experiences and holding of events. We classified these activities into five categories: maintenance of farmland and irrigation and drainage system, maintenance of the community, environmental conservation, active utilization of local resources, and public outreach. We contend that these activities consist of four layers and mutually connected activities of each layer should be addressed in a stepwise fashion for comprehensive development.
