The Traditional Noria Water Wheel of Japan: A Simple yet Effective Irrigation System

Noria is a Japanese word that refers to the traditional water wheel used in rice paddies. The noria is a simple, yet effective tool that has been used for centuries to irrigate rice fields in Japan.
The noria consists of a large wooden wheel with buckets attached to its periphery. The wheel is placed in a stream or river, and as the water flows through the wheel, it lifts the buckets and pours water into the rice paddy. The water is then distributed evenly throughout the field, providing the rice plants with the necessary moisture to grow.
Noria are still used today in some parts of Japan, particularly in the northern regions where the climate is cooler and the growing season is shorter. However, with the advent of modern technology and machinery, many farmers have replaced their noria with more efficient irrigation systems. Nevertheless, the noria remains an important part of Japanese cultural heritage and is often celebrated in local festivals and events.