31st National Terraced Rice Paddy (Senmaida) Summit in Hamamatsu

Event Overview

The 31st National Terraced Rice Paddy (Senmaida) Summit in Hamamatsu is a significant event dedicated to the preservation and promotion of Japan's traditional terraced rice paddy culture. Set in the beautiful landscapes of Hamamatsu, Shizuoka, this summit offers a deep dive into the history, traditions, and culinary heritage that sustain these iconic landscapes.

Highlights & Activities

A major highlight of this event is the much-anticipated "Excursion" (guided field tours). These specialized bus tours allow you to visit remote, mountainous terraced rice fields that are typically difficult to access by public transport. The program offers a variety of curated routes designed to match different interests, ranging from scenic nature walks to cultural explorations.

Options include walking through steep terraced fields, visiting historic castles and temples, or exploring local industries such as sake breweries and gourmet food experiences like eel (unagi) and citrus picking. It is a unique opportunity to witness the harmony between Japan's natural landscapes and the people who have preserved them for generations.

Schedule

The event takes place over two days. On the second day, the highlight excursions will depart from Hamamatsu Station. Each tour has a specific departure and arrival time, and itineraries vary significantly depending on the route chosen. Please check the official website for the specific schedule of each course.

Venue & Access

The main venue is ACT CITY Hamamatsu. For the excursions, participants will use buses departing from Hamamatsu Station. Since destinations (such as rice paddies, breweries, or sightseeing spots) vary by course, we recommend checking your specific route in advance.

Participation Tips

Advance reservations are required for all excursion bus tours. Popular routes and bus-based tours tend to book up quickly, so early booking is highly recommended. While you can join specific excursions, please confirm the exact itinerary and seat availability on the official website.

What to Bring & Etiquette

As many courses involve walking through nature and terraced fields, we strongly recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes and practical clothing. Please note that while many bus tours include lunch, this depends on the specific course selected. For any booking inquiries, please contact the organizers via the designated phone number or email address provided on the official site.