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 purposes. They act as dams to prevent flooding and landslides caused by heavy rain by utilizing their ability to collect rainwater. The presence of terraced rice fields also prevents rainwater from flowing down steep slopes and into the plains with great force.
In modern times, the greatest charm of terraced rice fields is undoubtedly their beautiful scenery. Many visitors feel a nostalgic sense of Japan's original landscape. In some places, they are even lit up at night and become tourist attractions. There are also campsites where you can camp while enjoying the breathtaking view of the terraced rice fields, and camping sites where you can pitch your tent on the paths between the fields. These campsites offer a different kind of nature experience compared to well-maintained auto campsites. If you want to feel closer to nature in an open location, a campsite with terraced rice fields is highly recommended.
In addition, the terraced rice fields are also a treasure trove that nurtures life. They support the lives of various animals such as frogs, reptiles like lizards, birds that feed on plants around the terraced fields, and foxes that feed on small animals gathered in the terraced fields. It can be said that the terraced fields provide an environment for many living creatures to grow.
Recently, there has been a decrease in the number of terraced fields due to depopulation and aging of residents in suburban areas. However, on the other hand, there has been an increase in places where you can experience events such as rice planting and harvesting, and where there is a system for owners to experience agriculture. In Japan, where the issue of young people leaving farming is serious, places where you can experience agriculture are valuable.
What are the spots with terraced rice fields that can be seen in Kanto?
Such terraced rice fields have become a precious existence nowadays, and there are several places in the Kanto region where you can see them. One of them is "Mobility Resort Motegi" in Motegi-cho, Haga-gun, Tochigi Prefecture. Here, in addition to motorsports, there is a "park" where children can enjoy attractions, and a hotel with a view of the circuit is also attached.
Among them, Mobility Resort Motegi has a nature-rich "Hello Woods Forest", and in it, there is a terraced rice field called "Hatcho Dragonfly Terraced Rice Fields", which consists of 24 steps. The entire Hello Woods, including the terraced rice fields, is managed by dedicated staff and carefully maintained, so you can experience nature safely and securely.
Various experiences that can be done at the rice terraces of Hatcho Tonbo
Hatcho Tonbo Rice Terraces
At this Hatcho Tonbo rice terrace, there are various activities available, from experiencing rice planting and harvesting to getting down and dirty in the rice fields to fully experience nature. Additionally, there are many creatures that can only be found in the rice terraces, so you can also use a net to catch and observe them. You can have a variety of experiences in one place, the rice terrace.
At Hello Woods, you can also visit the rice terrace as part of a forest walk. Rice terraces, which are not often seen in cities, are considered valuable, so why not visit and see for yourself?
Terraced rice fields, which are decreasing in recent years, can be considered a very valuable place.
Although there are only a few of them throughout the country, why not take this opportunity to visit?
Looking at the terraced rice fields may even heal a tired heart.
