Guida
Oawaranishi no Tanada (Oawaranishi Rice Terraces) is a highly distinctive landscape located in Misaki Town, Kume District, in the northern part of Okayama Prefecture. Situated in a mountainous area at an altitude of 400 meters, approximately 750 terraced rice fields spread out in a 360-degree bowl shape, surrounding the entire valley. The beautiful, layered curves created by this unique topography represent the "original scenery of Japan" and have been selected as one of "Japan's 100 Best Rice Terraces." Visitors can witness the overwhelming scale of a landscape where nature and human activity exist in perfect harmony.
Since ancient times, rice cultivation has been practiced in this region by utilizing the natural terrain. These terraced fields, built to match the bowl-shaped topography, are not merely agricultural sites but are vital assets that symbolize the local culture and landscape. The changing appearance of the terraces throughout the seasons serves as a testament to the preservation of traditional Japanese rural-life scenery. Today, efforts are being made to maintain and promote this beautiful landscape as an iconic symbol of the region.
The greatest charm is the 360-degree panoramic view that encircles the entire valley. The unique curves, often referred to as "shinogi-pattern" (ridge-like patterns), show different expressions depending on the viewing angle. In particular, the mirror-like water surfaces during the planting season, the lush green gradients during the growing season, and the golden landscapes during harvest time never fail to captivate visitors. You can enjoy this natural sculptural beauty from a high vantage point.
The Oawaranishi Rice Terraces offer completely different expressions depending on the season:
The primary activities here are strolling while enjoying the natural scenery and photography. You can feel the atmosphere of a traditional Japanese rural village within this quiet environment. Additionally, you can enjoy local delicacies made with local specialties. For example, the