가이드
Warubano Tanada is a beautiful terraced rice field located on the northern slope of Mt. Hata in Aichi-cho, Karatsu City, Saga Prefecture. Spanning an elevation from 180m to 420m with a vertical drop of approximately 240m, about 1,050 rice paddies spread out in a fan-shaped formation. This landscape is highly acclaimed and has been officially recognized as one of 'Japan's 100 Best Terraced Rice Fields' by the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, as well as a 'Important Cultural Landscape' by the Japanese government. The 'Nozura-zumi' (natural stone stacking) technique used for the walls, utilizing basalt stones, creates a powerful and rugged aesthetic reminiscent of ancient mountain castles, overwhelming visitors with its strength.
The history of these terraced fields dates back centuries, with the structure likely established during the mid-to-late Edo period. Since the Meiji era, land reclamation expanded the scale of the paddies. The sophisticated water management system, including ponds fed by tributaries of the Ohira River and 'Yokomizo' (horizontal grooves) running through the mountainside, has maintained these fields for generations. The preservation of the stone walls has been supported by 'Ishigaki Toryo' (master stonemasons) and local mutual aid organizations known as 'Tema-ko,' ensuring that this traditional landscape and its community-driven maintenance techniques endure to the present day.
The most striking feature is the view of the powerful stone walls intertwined with the terraced fields, particularly the unique structures in the Minamigawara district. Visitors can also observe advanced water management traces, such as the water flowing between paddies and the underground culverts designed to fit the terrain. The surrounding area is rich with nature, including forests of oak, cedar, and bamboo, offering a serene 'Satoyama' landscape. A viewing platform is also available at the Tanada Exchange Plaza, providing a panoramic view of the vast terraced fields.
Warubno Tanada presents a different face in every season. In late March to early April, rapeseed flowers bloom, signaling the arrival of spring. From late May, the rice planting season begins, creating beautiful reflections of the sky in the water-filled paddies. Summers bring lush greenery, while late September features the blooming of red spider lilies. Additionally, events like the 'Tanada and Cherry Blossom Village Making' in late February highlight the charm of the spring season. For photography enthusiasts, bright daylight hours are ideal for capturing the sharp details of the stone walls and the light reflecting off the water.
The area hosts various activities to connect with nature. Local community projects, such as 'Tanada Walking,' attract many visitors from urban areas. Depending on the season, you may encounter agricultural experiences or hiking through flower fields in fallow fields. The area serves as a site for nature-based learning and agricultural education, offering more than just sightseeing, but a deep touch of Japanese rural culture.
The 'Tanada Exchange Plaza' is located near the fields, providing facilities such as parking, restrooms, and a local produce shop. The area is also near Mt. Hata, a designated natural park. It is conveniently located about 5km by car from central Karatsu City and 5km south of the Aichi-cho center, making it an excellent stop during a sightseeing tour of Karatsu.
As the area includes steep slopes and unpaved paths, comfortable walking shoes (sneakers or trekking shoes) are essential. When exploring the viewing points or surrounding paths, please be mindful of local farmers. Since this is an active agricultural area, please do not enter restricted zones or disturb crops. For any purchases at local roadside stands, please carry cash, as many small shops may not accept cards.