Agricultural Land Accumulation by a Large-Scale Rice Production Company in Japan’s Mountainous Areas:

A Case Study of a Joint Public-Private Venture and Family Farms in the Tohoku Region

Abstract

Determining who cultivates the farmland in mountainous areas is a key challenge in Japanese agricultural policy. Publicly or cooperatively funded corporations are often viewed as the final option for maintaining cultivation. However, excessive pressure to accept leased agricultural land can jeopardize their viability. This study conducted interviews with third-sector corporations and farmers in the Tohoku region, revealing that successful management establishment requires a high level of managerial competence and significant discretionary authority by the proprietor in deciding whether to borrow land.