Miharu, Wild Rice and International House

(by Noriko)

Miharu Rice Lake housue

Have you ever visited Rice Lake International House" in Miharu? "Rice Lake" stands for "wild rice" whose vital energy is extraordinary. l went there on September 29 and experienced pumpkin carving. When I arrived at "Rice Lake International House", it was a very lively place, where they had a festival: people were singing, dancing, and taiko-drumming. They sold snacks, ecological household goods were and some toys at some stands.

l was surprised to find that "Rice Lake International House" was rather smaller than I had expected. It seemed to have a few guest rooms upstairs, where visitors stay. In the restaurant each item on the menu was \100. So I ordered a Mexican tacos, a cup of bean soup and coffee. I found them very tasty. Especially the soup was great with some beans and wild rice.

Now I would like to tell you about "wild rice". "Wild rice" is the only original cereal of North America because it is strong enough to survive in muddy land, sand and gravel. In late summer, grains ripen from top to bottom and gradually grains fall into the lake or river bed. Wild rice grains grow even in the depth of two meters because it receives its nourishment from clear water and sunlight. It has to wait for six years to grow without appropriate time and conditions. I was impressed with the vitality of "wild rice."

Next I would like to tell you about how to make a jack-o' -lantern. Jeana Schiffer, an international exchange coordinator, supervised a series of activities and taught the visitors and local children how to make a jack-o'-lantern. She attached a pattern for the carving by using tapes. Everyone followed her instructions. I tried to scoop out seeds and strings and finally we were able to finish a big jack-o' -lantern. It was certainly a fantastic experience. Knowing some of the western customs gives me an opportunity to think about Japanese customs. It is a real pleasure to learn about new things.

(10/2002)