Guide
The Ishibe Rice Terraces are located in Matsuzaki Town, on the western side of the Izu Peninsula in Shizuoka Prefecture. This site is characterized by its unique stone-wall construction, a technique rare in Eastern Japan. The terraces consist of approximately 370 plots covering a total area of 4.2 hectares, situated at altitudes between 120m and 250m. There was a time when the area faced abandonment, with 90% of the land covered in weeds, but thanks to the dedicated restoration efforts led by local residents since the year 2000, the landscape has been beautifully preserved. Today, it is recognized as a "Connecting Terraced Rice Paddy Heritage" (Post-Tanada 100 Selection) and serves as a vital symbol of the local community.
The history of these terraces is deep, with certain sections maintaining their original form since the late Edo period. The area has a history of overcoming natural challenges, including past collapses caused by mountain tsunamis, which required meticulous reconstruction. The use of traditional techniques for creating ridges (aze) and the robust stone-wall structures are rare features for the Kanto region. While the area once faced the threat of complete desolation, the cultural landscape has been preserved through community-led conservation and exchange programs, such as the "Rice Paddy Owner System" established in 2002.
The most striking feature of Ishibe Rice Terraces is the harmony between the topography and nature. Below the terraces, the vast Suruga Bay unfolds, and depending on the weather and visibility, visitors can enjoy majestic views of Mt. Fuji and the Southern Alps in the distance. The visual charm lies in the curved shapes of the paddies and the intricate stone-wall structures. The changing appearance of the water surfaces and the growth stages of the rice plants offer a dynamic and evolving scenery throughout the year.
You can experience vastly different landscapes throughout the four seasons. From spring to summer, the vibrant green seedlings provide a stunning contrast against the deep blue of the sea. In autumn, the fields turn into a sea of shimmering gold as the rice ripens. In winter, the view is often framed by the sight of snow-capped mountains, including Mt. Fuji and the Southern Alps. For the best visibility of the sea and Mt. Fuji, visiting during the bright daylight hours is highly recommended.
The local community hosts regular events to foster connection with people from urban areas. These include activities related to the "Rice Paddy Owner System," where participants can engage in farming, as well as local light festivals and music festivals. These events are designed to go beyond simple sightseeing, allowing visitors to truly connect with the local culture and the lifestyle of the village.
The area around Matsuzaki Town in the West Izu region of the Izu Peninsula is rich in natural beauty. The combination of rugged coastlines, mountain settlements, and traditional lifestyles makes this a perfect place to experience the authentic cultural essence of the region alongside the rice terraces.
As this is an open outdoor landscape, we recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes and choosing clothing appropriate for the season.