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. Utilizing their ability to collect rainwater, they act like dams to prevent river flooding and landslides caused by heavy rain, and the presence of terraced fields helps to prevent rainwater from rushing down steep slopes into the plains.
In modern times, the greatest charm of terraced rice fields lies in their beautiful scenery. Many visitors feel a sense of nostalgia, as they represent the original landscape of Japan. Furthermore, in some locations, they become tourist attractions with illuminations at night. There are camping sites where you can camp while enjoying the stunning views of the terraced fields, as well as campgrounds where you can pitch tents along the paths within the fields, allowing you to experience nature in a way that is different from well-maintained auto campgrounds. Campgrounds with terraced rice fields are recommended for those who want to feel nature more closely in an open location.
In addition, terraced rice fields serve as a treasure trove that nurtures life, supporting a diverse range of animals, including amphibians like frogs, reptiles like lizards, birds that feed on the plants around the rice fields, and foxes that prey on small animals that gather in the rice fields. It can be said that the presence of terraced rice fields creates an environment where many living things can thrive.
Recently, there has been a trend of decline due to suburban depopulation and the aging of residents. However, on the other hand, there is an increasing number of places offering experiential events such as rice planting and harvesting, as well as owner systems for agricultural experiences. In Japan, where the departure of young people from farming is a serious issue, places where agricultural experiences can be had are becoming valuable.
What are the spots with terraced rice fields that can be seen in Kanto?
The terraced rice fields, which have become a precious existence today, can be seen in several places in the Kanto region. One of them is "Mobility Resort Motegi" located in Motegi Town, Haga District, Tochigi Prefecture. Here, in addition to motorsports, there is a "park" with attractions for children, and a hotel that offers a panoramic view of the circuit.
Among them, Mobility Resort Motegi features the nature-rich "Hello Woods Forest," which includes a terraced rice field called "Hacchou Dragonfly Terraced Rice Field" consisting of 24 tiers. The entire Hello Woods, including the terraced rice fields, is carefully maintained by dedicated staff managing the forest, allowing for a safe and secure nature experience.
Various experiences that can be had in the Hachioh Tombow terraced rice fields
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In this Hachyoutombo terraced rice field, activities are available ranging from experiences of growing rice, such as rice planting and harvesting, to muddy experiences in the rice fields that allow you to fully enjoy nature. Additionally, many creatures that only inhabit terraced rice fields live here, so you can also observe them by scooping them up with a net, allowing for various experiences in one location, the terraced rice field.
During the business hours of Hello Woods, you can also take a walk in the forest to see the terraced rice fields. Since terraced rice fields are rare and not easily seen in urban areas, why not take the opportunity to visit when you come?
Recently, the terraced rice fields, which are on the decline, can be said to be very precious places.
Although they are few in number, they exist in various locations across the country, so why not take this opportunity to visit them?
Your tired heart may be healed by gazing at the terraced rice fields.
