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Abstract
This paper examined a recent trend of rural orientation in Japan from a perspective of
diversification of rural economy. Firstly, recent trend of rising number of entrants to
farming understood as a part of growing interest for rural life-style. Secondly,
characteristics of visitors to pick-your-own farms were examined by statistical tests.
Characteristics of up-market and niche market are revealed, which was roughly
identical with the findings in the European countries such as those who have higher
academic background, higher orientation for outdoor recreation, and are severe on
quality of services and goods they receive. Thus, it is necessary to provide authentic
quality of the service and goods on the one hand and preserve the rural environment on
the other. Therefore farm policy integrating farming and rural policy measures will be
necessary further.