The Bounty of Heavy Snowfall Provides Abundant Water Sources
The Yamakoshi District, the birthplace of Nishikigoi, is situated in a steep yet fragile mountainous area, which is believed to have been formed by an ancient seabed covered with sedimentary mud and sand slowly rising up over a span of five million years. This area is called the "20 village Community", where the locals have established a unique cultural zone with similar shared cultural aspects.
In winter, Yamakoshi has heavy snowfall, which usually accumulates and reaches heights of over four meters. During the spring thaw, landslides often occur in Yamakoshi. Even though this particular natural environment has caused tremendous damage to the people who have continued to live in this community, the melt water in the spring and summer is a precious water source indispensable for their daily life. This melt water is the key element for the Nishikigoi industry in Yamakoshi.
In winter, Yamakoshi has heavy snowfall, which usually accumulates and reaches heights of over four meters. During the spring thaw, landslides often occur in Yamakoshi. Even though this particular natural environment has caused tremendous damage to the people who have continued to live in this community, the melt water in the spring and summer is a precious water source indispensable for their daily life. This melt water is the key element for the Nishikigoi industry in Yamakoshi.