Guide
Sotoba Village is located in the Saikai region of Ainan, Ehime Prefecture. The village features residential houses stretching up the steep slopes from the bay toward the mountainside. A defining feature is the orderly arrangement of massive stone walls, some reaching as high as the eaves of the houses. These walls were constructed to protect the community and their homes from powerful typhoons and seasonal winds. Having preserved this structure from the late Edo period to the present day, the village is celebrated as a quintessential example of Japan's traditional stone wall culture.
The inhabitants of this village developed the wisdom to adapt to a harsh natural environment by building these high stone walls. This landscape has been recognized with prestigious honors, including the 'Beautiful Japanese Village Award' from the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, as well as being selected as one of the '100 Historical and Cultural Assets of Fishing Villages' that must be preserved for the future. Furthermore, it is listed in the '100 Selected Beautiful Historical Landscapes of Japan' by the Kyoto Preservation Foundation, showcasing a harmonious coexistence between traditional Japanese life and nature.
The most impressive view is the continuous line of stone walls built along the steep slopes leading from the bay toward the mountainside. These walls, which stand nearly as tall as the houses themselves, shape the unique layout of the village. The way the walls follow the natural topography creates a one-of-a-kind landscape that can be appreciated through aerial footage or 360-degree photography. Every detail reflects the ingenuity used to minimize the impact of wind and waves while utilizing the natural terrain.
Sotoba Village reveals different charms depending on the season. The best times to visit are from March to May, and from September to November. The mild weather of spring and autumn is particularly ideal for walking through the village to observe the scenery. Since the village is an open area, visiting during bright daylight hours will allow you to clearly observe the intricate details of the stone wall structures and the house arrangements.
As Sotoba is a living, breathing community, the primary experience is the act of walking through and observing the landscape. You can experience the scale of the stone walls and the unique placement of houses on the terrain up close. Before visiting, you can also view aerial videos and 360-degree photos on official websites to get a complete sense of the landscape.
The Saikai region of Ainan City offers much more than just stone walls, including rich natural environments and traditional fishing village scenery. You can plan a route that explores the coastlines around Ainan Town and other historical landscapes. After visiting the 'Village of Stone Walls,' a stroll along the nearby coastal areas is highly recommended.
Because the village is situated on steep slopes, please keep the following in mind: