The forestry of Chizu, with its "Chizu Forestry Landscape," has been designated as a Nationally Important Cultural Landscape, and continues to uphold its traditions today.

The history of tree planting in Chizu forestry spans over 350 years, and the town is home to "Keicho Sugi," artificial forests with trees over 300 years old, which have received high praise nationwide for their value. It is said that cedar trees only grow straight in places with clean air and abundant water, and Chizu's rich natural environment makes this possible.

In recent years, Chizu's forestry has faced difficult circumstances due to the decline in timber prices and the aging of forestry workers, as well as a lack of successors. Amid these challenges, Mr. Hashimoto, who was the host of the forestry tour, transitioned from a salaried worker about 10 years ago and has been supporting the local forestry.

During the tour, we were able to observe the felling of cedar trees and were also taught various things in detail, including the basic knowledge of forestry, the challenges in the field, and his passion for the job.

Japanese forestry focuses on close management through thinning to create high-quality timber with tight annual rings. This meticulous management through thinning and the slow growth influenced by Japan's changing seasons result in high-quality timber with dense, beautiful annual rings.

Mr. Hashimoto answered all our questions with a gentle smile throughout the tour, making it a time to feel the warmth of the people protecting the forests of Chizu.