Trip to Usuki, Oita

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Hello everyone!

We had the privilege to go on a 2 day city tour in Usuki, Oita. We were also blessed to get an extra day with the guides as we were interested in the compost factory in Usuki which could only be toured on a weekday so our tour started on Friday while the official tour was on Saturday and Sunday. Let’s just say that the city of Usuki showed us all the best that Usuki had to offer in a town of just 35,000 people. I could honestly say that it was some of the best food I have had since moving to Japan.

Lately I’ve been more mindful of the food I consume as I truly believe in the saying “you are what you eat”.

Allow me to introduce Usuki, Oita to you.

Exploring Usuki, Japan: The Heart of Small Town Living and Organic Food

Located in the southwestern part of Japan, Usuki is not just another small town; it's a vibrant example of how community and tradition can harmonize with modern sustainable living. Known for its rich cultural heritage, including the Usuki Stone Buddhas, a national treasure, Usuki also stands out for its commitment to organic agriculture and local cuisine.


The Charm of Usuki

Usuki is more than its historical landmarks. With its unique landscape, it has become a hub for the production of traditional Japanese condiments like miso and soy sauce, both fermented with rice malt, alongside spirits such as sake and shochu. The town's gastronomy has earned it a spot in the UNESCO Creative Cities Network for its food culture, highlighting the importance of food in its community life.


Organic Roots

What makes Usuki particularly noteworthy is its approach to food production. The city promotes organic farming, emphasizing the slow food movement. This initiative includes producing compost from fermented grasses, certifying organic vegetables, and incorporating these into school lunches. This practice not only supports the health of its residents but also educates the younger generation about the value of sustainable agriculture.


The Compost Revolution

One of the unique aspects of Usuki's organic movement is its compost manufacturing center. Here, the city utilizes local resources like cut vegetation to produce mature compost, enhancing soil fertility. This process not only supports local farmers but also creates a cycle of sustainability that reduces waste and enriches the land.


Why Small Towns Matter

In a world increasingly dominated by urban sprawl (ie. think of mega crowded cities like Tokyo), small towns like Usuki remind us of the benefits of a slower, more connected lifestyle:

  • Preservation of Traditions: Small towns often serve as guardians of cultural practices that might otherwise be lost in larger, more transient urban environments.

  • Environmental Stewardship: With less pollution, smaller populations, and a closer relationship to the land, small towns can lead by example in sustainable living.

  • Community Health: Access to fresh, organic food directly from the source can lead to better health outcomes for residents, who often know the farmers personally.


Usuki, Japan, serves as an inspiring model of how small-town living can foster a deep, meaningful connection to organic food sources. It's a testament to the idea that the future might not be in globalized, large-scale operations but in local, community-driven initiatives that value heritage, health, and the environment. For anyone interested in the slow food movement, sustainable living, or simply experiencing authentic Japanese culture, Usuki offers a rich tapestry of lessons and flavors, all woven into the fabric of its community life.

We were also on Oita TV. Check it out!

https://news.yahoo.co.jp/articles/5b2c6833ca4700258dc294fc7afb4d65d2a84a42?source=sns&dv=pc&mid=other&date=20250210&ctg=loc&bt=tw_up