Abstract
This study analyzes the development and management challenges of a large-scale individual farming enterprise through a case study of Iwaishi Nosan Co., Ltd. in Saga Prefecture, Japan. The farm has expanded to 45 ha by combining owned and leased land, supported by the adoption of GNSS-RTK guidance systems that significantly improved labor efficiency and reduced peak-season bottlenecks. Following incorporation in 2006, the introduction of hired labor enabled diversification into winter vegetable production and the establishment of improved working conditions, including shorter standard hours and support for skill acquisition. The study also examines future succession planning, the goal of expanding to 100 ha, and the need for strategic investment in machinery and storage facilities. At the regional level, the case highlights practical issues in land-use planning, field consolidation, and coordination among farmers and community-based organizations. The findings illustrate both the potential and constraints of large-scale individual farms in sustaining growth.
