Guide
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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).