Ozawa and Kami-Ozawa Magaki Village Scenery

Overview

The Ozawa and Kami-Ozawa Magaki Village Scenery is a seascape in Wajima City, Ishikawa Prefecture, located on the Noto Peninsula. The village utilizes the lowland area nestled between mountains and the sea, with terraced rice paddies and terraced fields on the slopes behind, and a harbor and boat moorings in the bay opening to the Japan Sea. As residents adapted to the harsh natural environment, they have created a unique village landscape over a long period of time, making maximum use of Satoyama (forest and farmland) and Satoumi (coastal) resources. The most distinctive feature is the "magaki," 4-5 meter high fences made of bamboo and other materials to protect houses from the strong seasonal winds characteristic of the Japan Sea. The magaki fostered a strong sense of community among residents, which is also reflected in the appearance of the houses, largely unified with gable roofs, black tiled roofs, and ate-geshiita (clapboard) exterior walls. This village landscape is indispensable for understanding the lifestyle in the Noto Peninsula's outer coast region. While once common, it is now one of the few remaining in good condition, making it extremely important. The Ozawa and Kami-Ozawa Magaki Village Scenery is a quiet and beautiful village where history and nature harmonize. It is a popular tourist spot where you can experience history and culture while driving through the scenic Noto Peninsula. Be sure to visit and experience its charm for yourself.