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 that remain in Japan, and are now considered valuable scenery.
This time, we will introduce the charm of such terraced rice fields.
What is a Tanada?
Terraced rice fields refer to the staircase-like rice fields created on the slopes of mountains. They are also known as "senmaida" and are made horizontally in steps, allowing them to store water unlike regular fields. The water source varies depending on the location, with some terraced fields having water channels drawn from the upstream of the mountain, while others have reservoirs built on the upper part of the fields or utilize rainwater and snowmelt water, with suitable measures being taken 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 store 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 sense of nostalgia, 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 attracts tourists. There are campsites where you can camp while enjoying the breathtaking views of the terraced fields, as well as campgrounds where you can pitch a tent on 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 are a treasure trove that nurtures life, supporting the lives of a wide variety of animals such as 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 terraced 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, places offering experiential events such as rice planting and harvesting, as well as owner programs that allow agricultural experiences, are 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?
These terraced rice fields, which have now become a precious presence, 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 "Hatcho Tonbo Rice Terraces," a series of 24 terraced rice fields. The entire Hello Woods area, including the rice terraces, is carefully maintained by dedicated staff who manage the forest, allowing visitors to safely and securely experience nature.
Various experiences that can be done at the rice terraces of Hatcho Tonbo
Hatcho Tonbo Rice Terraces
At the Hatcho Tonbo Rice Terraces, 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 to see the terraced rice fields. Since terraced rice fields are rare and valuable sights that are hard to find in urban areas, why not make sure to visit them when you come?
Terraced rice fields, which have been declining in recent years, can be considered 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.
