Can't see it anymore? What is the charm of the precious terraced rice fields?
Terraced rice fields are one of the beautiful rural landscapes remaining in Japan, and they are now considered a precious scenery.
This time, we will introduce the charm of such terraced rice fields.
What is a terraced rice field?
Terraced rice fields refer to the stepped rice paddies created on mountain slopes and similar areas. They are also known as "Senmaida" and are constructed level by level like stairs, allowing them to retain water unlike regular fields. The water sources vary by location; some terraced fields draw water from upstream mountain streams, while others have created reservoirs at the top or utilize rainwater and melted snow, with suitable adaptations made depending on the location.
What is the role of terraced rice fields?
Such terraced rice fields were created for rice cultivation, but they also serve various other roles. By utilizing their ability to retain rainwater, they function like dams to prevent river flooding and landslides caused by heavy rain. The presence of terraced rice fields helps prevent rainwater from rushing down steep slopes and flooding the plains with great force.
In modern times, the greatest charm of terraced rice fields lies in their beautiful scenery. Many visitors feel a nostalgic sentiment, as these fields represent the quintessential original landscape of Japan. Furthermore, in some locations, the terraced fields are illuminated at night, creating a spectacle that turns them into tourist attractions. There are campsites where you can camp while enjoying the breathtaking views of the terraced fields, as well as campgrounds where you can pitch tents along the ridges within the fields, offering a different experience of nature compared to well-maintained auto campsites. Campsites with terraced rice fields are recommended for those who want to feel closer to nature in an open and liberating setting.
Additionally, terraced rice fields serve as a treasure trove nurturing life, supporting the lives of a wide variety of animals including amphibians like frogs, reptiles like lizards, birds that feed on plants around the terraced fields, and foxes that prey on small animals gathered in the fields. It can be said that the presence of terraced rice fields creates an environment where many living creatures can thrive.
Recently, due to depopulation in suburban areas and the aging of residents, there has been a declining trend; however, on the other hand, the number of places offering experiential events such as rice planting and harvesting, as well as owner systems that allow agricultural experiences, is increasing. In Japan, where the departure of young people from farming is a serious issue, places where one can experience agriculture are considered valuable.
What are the spots with terraced rice fields that can be seen in Kanto?
Terraced rice fields, which have now become a rare sight, can be seen in several locations in the Kanto region. One of these is Mobility Resort Motegi, located in Motegi Town, Haga District, Tochigi Prefecture. Here, in addition to motorsports, there is a "Park" with attractions that children can enjoy, as well as a hotel overlooking the circuit.
Among them, Mobility Resort Motegi features the nature-rich "Hello Woods Forest," which includes the terraced rice fields called the "Hachioh Tombow Terraced Rice Fields," consisting of 24 consecutive tiers. The entire Hello Woods area, including the terraced rice fields, is carefully maintained by dedicated staff who manage the forest, allowing visitors to safely and securely experience nature.
Various experiences that can be had in the Hachioh Tombow terraced rice fields
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In the Hachioh Tombow terraced rice fields, there are activities ranging from hands-on experiences like rice planting and harvesting, where you can grow your own rice, to muddy rice paddy experiences that allow you to fully immerse yourself in nature. Additionally, since many creatures that only inhabit terraced rice fields live here, you can also scoop up creatures with a net and observe them, making it possible to enjoy a variety of experiences all in one place—the terraced rice fields.
During Hello Woods' business hours, you can also go for a walk in the forest and visit the terraced rice fields. Since terraced rice fields are rare and precious sights that are hard to see in the city, why not make sure to visit them when you come?
Terraced rice fields, which have been decreasing in number recently, can be said to be very precious places.
Although rare, they exist throughout the country, so why not take this opportunity to visit them?
Gazing at the terraced rice fields may also soothe a tired heart.
