[Inakadate Village, Aomori Prefecture] Not just rice field art! Inakadate Village is a place where you can enjoy art!

Inakadate Village in Aomori Prefecture is famous for its ``Rice Paddy Art''. Inakadate Village, located in the central part of Aomori Prefecture, is the birthplace of northern rice cultivation culture, so rice cultivation has been flourishing there. ``Rice Paddy Art'' was planned to revitalize the village by utilizing the experience of rice cultivation and the vast land.

Rice field art is characterized by using rice of different colors and planting them as if painting a picture on a canvas. The pattern is designed with the assumption that it will be viewed diagonally from above, and each tree is carefully planted one by one.

He is particular about the color of the ears, and when he first started painting, he used three different colors, but in recent years he has used 11 different types and seven colors to create colorful art.

Although this project started out as a fumbling experience, the technology has improved year by year. Its meticulous design and artistry are on par with those of any other region, and are often featured in overseas media.

What is “winter rice field art” that can be enjoyed even in the snow?

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Inakadate Village has started a new challenge. "Winter Rice Paddy Art" was started in 2016 (Heisei 28) to utilize the rice field art venue even in winter.

On a pure white snowy field with no landmarks, I draw a picture using only the footprints of my snowshoes. The project was started by members of the citizen group "Snow Artist Group It's OK."

Snow art on a snowy field that seems easy but difficult

Snow art doesn't just involve drawing on snow. After creating a detailed sketch and design, and deciding in advance which route to take and what technique to use, we begin our first steps on the white snowy field.

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Snowshoes are used when walking on snowy mountains.

Walking while wearing these shoes creates beautiful footprints, and patterns and pictures are drawn on the snow. It may seem easy, but it's more than just walking.

In order to leave a single footprint, you need to raise your knees and step firmly, and if you don't remove your feet properly, you'll end up with a trail that looks like you've dragged it through the snow.

Snow art is characterized by the fact that it requires a great deal of physical strength because the snow is deep.

“Shade” is the heart of art

To move in the right direction, check your step count and angle to determine your next step.

When drawing a circle, the common method is for one person to stand at the stop holding a rope, and everyone walks and draws the circle using a compass.

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Snow art can be expressed as clear lines or as patterns with footprints.

The pattern of footprints is called a ``shade,'' and the quality of the work changes greatly depending on whether the shade looks clean or not. Lines can be erased, but footprints are difficult to edit. When Inakadate Village's ``Winter Rice Field Art'' first started, there were many accidents, such as not getting the shade right or stepping on areas that were not planned.

Over the years, the technique has improved, and now it boasts a level of popularity and quality that rivals summer rice field art.

Snow art is beautiful because it can only be seen for a short time.

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``Winter Rice Field Art'' involves drawing art on a snowy field for 6 to 7 hours. It is easily influenced by the weather and looks beautiful for only a short period of time. Its ephemerality is beautiful and will continue to remain in the hearts of many people.

Winter rice field art was first held in 2016 and has become an annual event.

However, due to the spread of the new coronavirus, the event has been postponed for two years, with the last event being held in 2020.

``Snow art'' is a beautiful snow art that cannot be left forever.

I can't help but hope that the day will come when I can hear the involuntary cheers again.