In combination with detailed field survey, geographical information system (GIS) and remote sensing (RS) techniques, land use history and fallow vegetation recovery process have been analyzed to understand the rationality of traditional swidden cultivation with long fallow period by the Karen in Myanmar and short fallow period by the Khmu in Laos.

Because slashing and burning of swidden cultivation stimulates regeneration of various plants, abandoned Satoyama forest in Japan would be rejuvenated after the burning. In cooperation with local people in Yogo town, Shiga prefecture, I am trying to establish the future vision of forest management which is suitable for present situation of local community.
In addition, revival of swidden cultivation which aims to enhance organic farming, rehabilitation of Satoyama forest, and rural activation have been observed recently in various areas in Japan. However, almost no network has been constructed between these areas mainly due to geographical barrier. Thus, our research group organized biennial meeting (the forum of swidden cultivation) among practitioner of swidden farming. The forum aims to establish strong network between the practitioners of swidden to enhance the rehabilitation of Satoyama forest and depopulated rural area in Japan.