Guide
Masuke-do Tanada is a magnificent terraced rice field located in Gujo City, Gifu Prefecture. It has been honored as one of the "100 Best Terraced Rice Fields in Japan" and is part of the "Tsunagu Tanada Heritage." Situated along a historic route that once flourished due to the Hakusan faith, the landscape features stone-walled terraces that cascade down the mountain slopes. Located at an altitude of approximately 650 meters, the 24 individual rice paddies are arranged in a way that creates a breathtaking, staircase-like appearance following the natural contours of the land.
The structure of these rice fields carries a deep history, with the stone walls dating back to the Sengoku (Warring States) to Edo periods. Because the area was located on a route significant to the Hakusan faith, the landscape preserves a historical connection between local life and spiritual traditions. The distinctive stone-walling (ishizumi) is a testament to the long-term maintenance and traditional engineering required to preserve this landscape over many centuries.
The most striking feature of Masuke-do Tanada is the stepped topography formed by the stone-walled embankments. Across the river, there is a dedicated observation point where visitors can enjoy a panoramic view of the entire terraced field. The site consists of 24 paddies covering a total cultivation area of 3.6 hectares. During the periods when the fields are filled with water, the surrounding mountains are beautifully reflected on the surface, creating a mirror-like effect.
The scenery changes dramatically depending on the season. The most iconic times to visit are from late April to May, during the rice planting season when the fields are filled with water, and around October during the rice harvest. In spring, you can enjoy the vibrant fresh greenery, while autumn brings a golden landscape. For photographers, the moments just before sunrise or during twilight offer spectacular light reflections on the water surfaces.
Visitors can observe traditional Japanese agricultural landscapes and the harmony between man and nature. From the observation spot, you can enjoy a bird's-eye view of the terraced fields. The primary experience is a peaceful stroll through the natural environment, observing the seasonal changes in the agricultural cycle.
Nearby attractions include the famous