Sakamoto Rice Terraces

Overview & Charm

Located at the foot of the Suzuka Mountains in Kameyama City, Mie Prefecture, the Sakamoto Rice Terraces are a celebrated scenic spot officially recognized by the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries as one of "Japan's 100 Best Rice Terraces." The landscape is defined by its unique and rare stone-walled embankments (norimen), which create a harmonious blend of human ingenuity and natural beauty. These are active farmlands where local communities work tirelessly to preserve the traditional landscape and agricultural heritage.

History & Cultural Background

The history of this area dates back to the Sengoku (Warring States) period, when the land was first reclaimed. For centuries, the terrain has been shaped and maintained through the wisdom and hard work of generations past. Today, the landscape is protected by local residents, preservation societies, and the Sakamoto Agricultural Association, ensuring that the connection between the community and the land remains unbroken. It is not just a beautiful view, but a living piece of cultural history.

Key Highlights

The greatest draw is the layered, cascading view of the rice terraces. The distinctive stone-walled structures set this location apart from other terraced fields in Japan. Visitors can enjoy the changing scenery of the seasons, from the shimmering water in spring to the golden harvests of autumn. A must-see highlight is the "Tanada Akari in Sakamoto" event held around November. During this time, approximately 3,500 LED lights illuminate the terraces, transforming the landscape into a breathtaking, ethereal night scene.

Seasonal Recommendations

The appearance of the terraces changes dramatically with the seasons. From spring to summer, you can see the lush greenery and the reflection of the sky in the water-filled paddies. In autumn, the fields turn a brilliant gold. If you plan to visit during the November light-up event, please be prepared for the night-time chill; bringing warm clothing and a flashlight is highly recommended for navigating the area safely.

Experiences & Activities

Depending on the time of year, visitors may witness demonstrations of traditional farming tools. In the past, tools such as foot-powered threshing machines and "Tomi" (winnowing machines that use wind to separate grain) have been featured. During special events, you may also find stalls selling local delicacies or even opportunities to try your hand at making Japanese buckwheat noodles (soba). These moments offer a rare, hands-on connection to Japanese rural culture.

Surrounding Area

The Sakamoto Rice Terraces are nestled in a nature-rich area at the foot of the Suzuka Mountains. The surrounding landscape is a peaceful expanse of rural scenery. For the best view of the entire terrace system, head to the Sakamoto Rural Park (Sakamoto Rice Terrace Observatory).

Important Information for Visitors

• Payment: For parking or food stalls during events (such as curry, udon, or roasted sweet potatoes), please carry cash, as many vendors may not accept credit cards.
• English Support: Official English signage and English-speaking staff are limited. We recommend checking details in advance.
• Reservations: The area is open for viewing at any time without a reservation, but please check official announcements for specific event schedules like the light-up event.
• Clothing: If attending the nighttime "Tanada Akari" event, bring heavy clothing to protect against the evening cold.
• Photography: Photography is permitted, but please do not enter active farmland or disturb the crops.
• Accessibility: Due to the steep slopes and uneven terrain, the area is not easily accessible for wheelchairs.
• Etiquette: This is an active agricultural site. Please stay on designated paths and observatories to protect the crops and the environment.