Field Notes: Trains, Toilets, and Soybeans
If you had told me a few years ago that I’d be standing in Tokyo, talking about Arkansas soybeans and using a toilet with more buttons than my microwave, I probably would’ve laughed. But here we are.
I spent a week in Japan this April, and I’ve been trying to put the experience into words ever since. It was a business trip, yes—but also something more. A full-circle moment. A chance to see how something we grow in our Delta dirt becomes part of a culture halfway around the world. And also... a chance to eat a lot of sushi. (Spoiler: the worst sushi in Japan really is better than the best we have here.)
Let’s start with why I was there: soybeans. Not just any soybeans, natto soybeans. These are small-seeded, specialty beans that we’ve spent decades growing, refining, and exporting for use in Japan’s traditional fermented food called natto. It’s sticky, stringy, and admittedly a bit of an acquired taste. But it’s packed with health benefits and loved by a lot of folks in Japan.
This trip gave me the opportunity to talk directly with buyers and processors. We discussed quality (which matters deeply in this market), weather challenges back home, and what it takes to keep this unique supply chain running. These aren’t just soybeans, they’re relationships, trust, and long-term commitment.
Culture Shock... In the Best Way
Now let me just say: Japan is something else. And I mean that with total respect and admiration. The attention to detail, the quietness in public spaces, the extreme cleanliness—it’s all a little humbling, honestly. There’s just... no trash. Anywhere. You won’t find a trash can on the street. You also won’t find people eating on the go or talking loudly on trains. It’s a culture of awareness and respect.
And speaking of trains, those bullet trains are amazing. We traveled over 700 miles in-country with zero hiccups. They’re clean, on time, and so efficient it made me question everything I know about public transportation.
Let’s talk about food. Obviously, the sushi was incredible. Fresh, simple, and so flavorful it makes you wonder what we’re doing wrong over here. But beyond that, there were noodle bowls, savory broths, vegetables I couldn’t name but gladly ate—and of course, natto.
It’s a very healthy food, and they take pride in how it’s made and consumed. I tried it again while I was there (not my first rodeo), and while it may not be my go-to breakfast, I have a lot of respect for it. I mean, we grow the soybeans, it’s only right I give it an honest shot. I actually love it on occasion and try to find it in local oriental stores when it is available.
I wasn’t going to bring this up, but I’d be lying if I didn’t mention it was one of the more talked-about parts of the trip. Japanese toilets are... advanced. They have electronic controls for temperature, sound, pressure, you name it. One would think it would be simple – just flush – but there are way too many options to discuss here. Let’s just say you should check them out for yourself!
Big Conversations in a Big World
It is always humbling to travel to other cultures and Japan is no different. Especially when traveling on my own it gives me time to really explore. Sometimes that exploration leads inward and in a quiet culture that can be good for my heart and soul. It was emotional. And it reminded me how connected this world really is, how something planted in Arkansas can find its way to a kitchen table in Japan.
Since I’ve been home, I’ve thought a lot about what it means to grow food for someone else’s culture. It’s a privilege. And it’s a responsibility. It reminds me to be sure and explain to our farmers and all those who work with us at Delta Soy that the soybeans we produce for this food are unique and treasured by the people who eat it every day.
I’ve also thought a lot about slowing down, respecting the space around me, and packing snacks I can eat quietly in public.
Japan always refreshes my lens on life, food, and farming. And I’m better for it. If you missed the podcast, you can catch it here:
🍎 https://podcasts.apple.com/za/podcast/field-good-life/id1795513436
💚https://open.spotify.com/show/2xQkadHp60CkKLaD43Eotq?si=2613e66b80594431