KUALA LUMPUR, March 31 -- The Yamagata Prefectural Government has decided to apply for designation as a Globally Important Agricultural Heritage System (GIAHS) to inherit the traditional and unique ‘Mogami Safflower’ agricultural system for the next generation.
According to a statement, the GIAHS is applied along with the Yamagata Safflower Promotion Committee, aimed to widely disseminate its value to the world.
GIAHS is a system by which the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization certifies areas of traditional agricultural importance that are vital worldwide.
The committee is preparing to submit an application for GIAHS designation to Japan's Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries by June 10.
In mid-July, safflower festivals are held in various parts of the prefecture, and the agricultural system is promoted at the venue where safflowers are in full bloom.
‘Mogami Safflower’ of Yamagata is a natural dye ingredient producing a beautiful crimson red dye. Yamagata is the sole prefecture with this unique and traditional agricultural system in the world.
Safflower producers pluck the yellow petals of the flower and extract the red pigment via oxidation to produce the material for natural dye called ‘Benimochi’. Then, it is used to dye ‘Shinto’ ritual costumes and as paint for ukiyo-e woodblock prints.
-- BERNAMA
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