Yam Digger
やまいもほりびと
Industry & Occupation
Classification
- Major : Agriculture, Forestry, and Fishery Occupations
- Middle : Forestry Occupations
- Minor : Other Forestry Occupations
Summary
A forestry and agriculture-related job that digs up wild or cultivated yams in mountain forests, harvests, and transports them.
Description
Yam diggers mainly dig up yams (such as nagaimo) that grow wild in mountain forests using hand tools, and perform harvesting, packaging, and transportation. The work takes place on steep slopes or in muddy areas in mountainous regions, requiring careful excavation while discerning soil quality and root shapes. The dug-up yams are protected with cushioning materials or nets to avoid damage and transported to collection sites. Strongly influenced by seasons and weather, it demands high physical strength, attention to detail, and proper use of safety equipment. Basic knowledge of forestry and agriculture, hand tool operation techniques, and first aid skills are also required.
Future Outlook
The labor shortage is intensifying due to the declining birthrate and aging population, and since mechanization is difficult, demand for high-value rare yams is expected to continue steadily.
Personality Traits
Cautious / Interested in Natural Environment / Patient / Physically Strong
Work Style
Day Shift / Outdoor Work / Seasonal / Team or Individual Work
Career Path
Forestry Worker → Mountain Vegetable and Mushroom Gathering Specialist → Nagaimo Cultivating Farmer → Forest Manager
Required Skills
Hand Tool Operation / Outdoor Safety Management / Packaging and Protection Techniques / Soil Judgment
Recommended Skills
First Aid / Heavy Machinery Operation (Backhoe) / Mountain Forest Navigation / Safety Equipment Use
Aptitudes (Strengths Preferred)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Attention to Detail & Accuracy | High attention to detail is required to dig up yams without damaging them. |
| Physical Stamina & Endurance | Due to heavy labor in mountain forests and work on unstable terrain. |
Aptitudes (Weaknesses Acceptable)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Analytical & Logical Thinking | There are few opportunities to analyze soil quality or yam growth conditions over the long term. |
| Creativity & Ideation | Work procedures are standardized, and creative thinking is not required. |
| Numerical & Quantitative Analysis | Advanced mathematical analysis is not required. |
Related Qualifications
- Ordinary Motor Vehicle License
Aliases
- Yam digging
Related Jobs
- Forestry Worker
- Mountain Vegetable Gatherer
- Nagaimo Cultivating Farmer