Reeds are a symbol of Japan.

The first thing you'll notice about a traditional house is the beautiful, thick thatched roof. The two houses standing in Shumei Natural Agriculture Shigaraki no Sato are thatched with reeds from Lake Biwa.
Reeds and the Japanese people have a natural bond that has existed since ancient times. In "A Record of Ancient Matters"(the oldest Japanese history book in existence), Japan is described as the country where reeds grow profusely and the stalks of the rice plant stand strong and vibrant. In ancient times, reeds, as well as rice, were the representative plants of Japan. Reeds were also used for traditional Japanese musical instruments such as the Shinto flute and the Hichiriki.

Reeds are waterside plants. They are cut in the winter and afterward the place where they grew is burnt off. In spring, they sprout fresh shoots and grow vigorously. Reeds and people have lived together like this since the beginning of time.
A thatched roof, which is 80 cm thick, protects people from rain, wind and snow for about 30 years. After its role is over, it becomes useful compost, and finally it returns to the soil.

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