Guide
Kamomomi Rice Terraces, located in Kume South Town, Kume District, Okayama Prefecture, is a quintessential symbol of traditional Japanese agricultural landscapes. It has been officially recognized as one of "Japan's 100 Selected Terraced Rice Fields" by the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, a testament to its exceptional beauty. Spanning approximately 27 hectares, the area features about 1,000 terraced fields that cascade down the mountain slopes, creating a mesmerizing pattern of curves that follow the natural topography. It is a deeply evocative landscape where human ingenuity and nature exist in perfect harmony.
Rice terraces, or "tanada," are paddy fields constructed on slopes with a gradient of 1/20 or steeper. Since ancient times, people have carved paths through rugged mountains and managed water systems to maintain these areas for food production. The Kamomomi Rice Terraces were built through the immense labor and wisdom of ancestors. Beyond food production, these terraces play a vital role in environmental conservation, such as preventing floods and soil erosion, as well as managing water storage and purification. This landscape is a precious heritage that breathes with the history and culture of the region.
The greatest attraction is the rhythmic beauty created by the 1,000 terraced fields cascading down the mountainside. The boundaries between the fields (aze) are meticulously placed to follow the terrain, creating a stunning visual rhythm. The landscape changes dramatically with the seasons: from the mirror-like water surfaces in spring, to the vibrant greenery of summer, and finally to the shimmering golden hues during the autumn harvest. No matter which angle you view it from, you will feel the grand scale of a landscape where nature and topography become one.
You can enjoy a completely different scenery depending on the season. From spring to early summer, the water-filled fields act as mirrors reflecting the sky. In summer, the landscape turns into a lush, vibrant green. During the autumn harvest, the ripening rice stalks glow in brilliant gold, symbolizing the season of abundance. While bright daylight brings out the vivid colors of the fields, early mornings with lingering mist or the soft light of sunset offer a truly mystical and ethereal atmosphere.
This is a place to enjoy quiet contemplation of nature. Taking time to listen to the wind and watch the changing colors of the sky and mountains allows you to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life. It is a popular destination for photographers looking to capture the elegant curves and seasonal colors of the landscape. It is an ideal spot for a slow-paced stroll to feel a deep connection with the natural world.
Nearby, you can find the "Shoho Rice Terraces," another site recognized in the "Japan's 100 Selected Terraced Rice Fields" list. The Shoho terraces are even larger, covering 79 hectares with 2,700 fields. Visiting both sites will provide a deeper understanding of the magnificent rural landscapes that define Kume South Town. The surrounding area is rich in nature and perfect for scenic drives and exploration.