Total area to harvest rush grass and production amount in Japan

Table of contents

Abstract
Igusa harvest volume (main data).
Igusa harvest volume (by prefecture).
Area cultivated with rush grass (main data).
Area cultivated with rush grass (by prefecture).
Yield of rush grass per 10a (by prefecture).
Reference

Abstract

In 2022, Kumamoto led Japanese rush grass agriculture with the highest yield of 5.81 kilotonnes and the largest cultivated area of 380 hectares. Additionally, it achieved the highest yield per 10a at 1.53 tonnes. This trend highlights Kumamoto’s prominent role in rush grass production, demonstrating both substantial land use and efficient yield output. Historically, Kumamoto has maintained a strong position due to its favorable cultivation conditions and effective agricultural practices.

Igusa harvest volume (main data).

Since peaking at 141 kilotonnes in 1964, Japan’s rush grass yield has significantly declined to 47% of that maximum level. This reduction reflects a broader trend of decreased production over the decades. Despite the drop, historical data indicates a robust period of growth and high output in the mid-20th century. Current yields demonstrate a shift in agricultural priorities or challenges, marking a shift from past peak levels but still underscoring the crop’s continued relevance.

The maximum is 141kt[1964] of Japan, and the current value is about 47%

Igusa harvest volume (by prefecture).

As of 2022, Kumamoto stands out in Japanese rush grass agriculture with the highest yield of 5.81 kilotonnes. This figure highlights Kumamoto’s leading role in production, maintaining its top position over recent years. The trend underscores Kumamoto’s significant contribution to the national yield, reflecting effective agricultural practices and favorable conditions. Despite historical fluctuations, Kumamoto’s consistent high output demonstrates its ongoing importance in the rush grass sector.

The maximum is 5.81kt of Kumamoto, the average is 5.81kt, and the total is 5.81kt

Area cultivated with rush grass (main data).

The area of land used for igusa cultivation in Japanese agriculture has changed between 1926 and 2022. The peak cultivated area nationwide was recorded in 1964 at 12.3 kha, but it has declined in the following decades and is currently at 49.5% of its peak. The decline is due to the effects of agricultural modernization and urbanization. In recent years, the area of land used for igusa cultivation has been shrinking due to the conversion of farmland into residential and industrial land, as well as the improvement of agricultural efficiency. On the demand side, it is possible that demand for rush products has decreased due to changes in lifestyles and consumption trends. Due to a combination of these factors, the area of land used for igusa cultivation is on the decline. In the future, various measures will be needed, such as promoting sustainable agriculture and diversifying demand.

The maximum is 12.3kha[1964] of Japan, and the current value is about 49.5%

Area cultivated with rush grass (by prefecture).

Looking at the latest data for 2022 on the area of land cultivated with rush grass in Japanese agriculture, we see that Kumamoto is the largest overall. This shows that Kumamoto is a major producer of rush grass. Additionally, a comparison with past data suggests that Kumamoto’s cultivated area is on the rise. This trend is thought to be due to Kumamoto’s climatic conditions and geographical characteristics, as well as the improved skills and experience of local farmers. Meanwhile, acreage may be declining in other areas. This is thought to be due to regional disparities in agriculture as well as economic and environmental factors. In some areas, including Kumamoto, rush production has been cultivated as an important industry and may contribute to the local economy. In the future, measures will be needed to establish sustainable production systems and respond to changes in demand.

The maximum is 380ha of Kumamoto, the average is 380ha, and the total is 380ha

Yield of rush grass per 10a (by prefecture).

In 2022, Kumamoto achieved the highest yield of rush grass per 10a in Japan, with an exceptional rate of 1.53 tonnes. This figure not only represents the peak yield but also matches the national average and total yield per 10a, highlighting Kumamoto’s leading position in efficiency. The consistency of this yield underscores Kumamoto’s effective agricultural practices and favorable conditions, marking it as a model for high productivity in rush grass cultivation across Japan.