Here, we will introduce the history of agriculture from the Edo period to the present day.

For the history of Japanese agriculture from ancient times to the Middle Ages, see the article “Agriculture in Ancient to Medieval Japan”.

Bakuhan system and third generation reform

In the Edo period, an identification system called “Four occupations” was established, and among them, farmers accounted for more than 70% of the total.

In addition, the following three major reforms took place during the Edo period.

Kyoho Reform: Raise the annual tribute rate and rice price, and collect part of the tax with silver instead of rice

Kansei Reforms … Establishing a standard market price for rice

Tenpo Reforms … Prohibiting migration from rural areas to urban areas

Introduction of Western technology by the Meiji Restoration

After the Meiji Restoration and the land tax reform, Japan began to introduce cutting-edge technology including agricultural technology from other countries.

The development of Hokkaido was promoted, and the first agricultural educational institution, Sapporo Agricultural College, was opened.