Departures from the big cities and stay in a small farm run by a family dedicated to the preservation of Japan’s natural environment and traditions
An interesting counter-movement has emerged in Japan in recent years as many people have left big industry and urban life to return to their rural roots and live at a slower pace with a focus on family, tradition and sustainability. Brown’s Field was created with this philosophy in mind and gives people the opportunity to stay on a small family farm in unspoiled landscape, while learning more about this lifestyle.
Tucked away on the Boso Peninsula of Chiba Prefecture, Brown’s Field consists of a traditional Japanese farm, Rice Terrace Cafe (open on weekends), a yurt, a couple of rice paddies, and plenty of ducks, goats, and cats. The farm was founded in 1999 by essayist and macrobiotic cooking teacher Deco Nakajima and her husband, writer / photographer Everett Kennedy Brown.
Guests stay in the farm’s restored barn. Alternatively, for those who want a more traditional lodging experience, Everett and his wife also have a beautiful ryokan called Jiji-no-Ie, just a short walk from the main farm.
There is a lot to do during your stay here: explore the nearby bamboo forest, take a bike and go to the coast, play with the goats or read a book in the hammock. You can also get involved in the farm, participate in planting rice or picking fruit, or help in the kitchen.
Meals are eaten communally with all guests and staff around the large table in the main house. The food is 100% vegan and healthy, with ingredients produced at Brown’s Field or neighboring organic farms.