In and around Yato (narrow valleys at the head of local rivers) on the Tama Hills, a valuable natural environment is preserved within the Tokyo metropolitan area. This environment is called ” Satoyama,” and has gained attention in recent years as a socioecological system sustained through human activities including agriculture.

In particular, paddy field management based on local traditional knowledge is highly valued worldwide for its contribution to sustaining rich biodiversity and mitigating the impact of climate change. Now, “Satoyama,” originating from Japan, has become well-known as a unique concept that indicates a sustainable relationship between environment and human beings.

With Prof. Sugiura’s research on the connectivity and interactions between mountains, rivers, and the sea as the background, she is participating in activities to conserve such precious Satoyama landscape with Sophia University students. They fully enjoy the kind support of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government and the local groups, the Machida Historic Environmental Management Association (Machida-Rekikan-Kanri-Kumiai), and the Historic Environmental Supporters Group for Yato Conservation (Rekikan-Supporters-Yatomori-Club).

This activity has been ongoing since 2022.