Guida
Located at the northern edge of the Noto Peninsula in Wajima City, the areas of Osawa and Kamiosawa feature a truly unique landscape. The settlements are nestled within narrow plains squeezed between steep mountains and the Sea of Japan. The most striking feature is the 'Magaki'—bamboo fences arranged around the settlements. This landscape showcases the wisdom of people adapting to their environment and was designated as a National Important Cultural Landscape in 2015.
Historically, residents in this region needed to protect their homes from the powerful seasonal winds blowing from the sea. To counter this, they developed 'Magaki,' constructed by vertically arranging slender 'Nigatake' bamboo stalks. These fences serve a dual functional purpose: providing moderate shade during the summer and acting as a windbreak against harsh winter gusts. This way of life, a blend of 'Han-no-han-gyo' (half-farming and half-fishing) involving mountain-side terraced agriculture and coastal fishing, forms the very foundation of this culture.
The most captivating sight is the streetscape defined by the bamboo Magaki fences. The way the houses are positioned along the natural terrain, protected by these bamboo structures, perfectly symbolizes the traditional life of the Noto region. Visitors can also enjoy the view of the terraced rice fields spreading across the mountains and the nearby fishing ports. The seamless integration of natural topography and man-made structures creates a breathtakingly cohesive landscape.
The landscape transforms beautifully with the seasons. From April to June, the terraced fields and surrounding vegetation become lush and vibrant, offering rich natural colors. The scenery also changes beautifully during the autumn months of October and November. For the best experience, visit during the daytime to clearly see the textures of the bamboo and the contours of the land, or during the late afternoon to witness the village bathed in the soft, peaceful light of a sunset over the sea.
Visitors can visually understand the unique lifestyle of the Noto Peninsula. You can observe up close how the Magaki structures are built to deflect the wind and protect the dwellings. A walk through the settlement allows you to touch upon the essence of traditional Japanese village life, set against a backdrop of stunning natural beauty.
Other cultural landscapes and coastal settlements are scattered throughout Wajima City. This area can easily be incorporated into a larger Noto Peninsula sightseeing route, where you can explore various fishing villages and areas with preserved traditional architecture.
As the village includes natural terrain and unpaved paths, comfortable walking shoes are highly recommended. Please remember that these are active residential areas; respect the privacy of the inhabitants and keep noise to a minimum. For specific facility information or local payments, please check on-site signage. The landscape is open to the public, but mindful behavior is essential.