12 Scenic Views of Japan's Beautiful Countryside! Introducing Recommended Ultimate Scenic Spots to Be Proud Of!
When you're caught up in busy days, don't you find yourself wanting to visit a place rich in nature that can soothe your soul? All across the country, there are still many beautiful landscapes that have been protected since ancient times.
In this article, we introduce 12 quintessential rural landscapes you'll want to see at least once, including terraced rice fields and old townscapes. If you're looking to spend a relaxing time, be sure to use this as a reference.
Shiiba's Machu Picchu Floating in a Sea of Clouds: "Sennin no Tanada" [Miyazaki]
The Sennin Tanada (Immortal's Terraced Rice Fields) are terraced rice fields located in the mountainous region of Shiiba Village, Miyazaki Prefecture. Once considered one of Japan's three great hidden villages, they offer a breathtaking, otherworldly landscape so beautiful that it's nicknamed "Machu Picchu of Shiiba."
The Sennin Rice Terraces, created by diverting waterways from a slightly distant location during the Meiji era, have been carefully preserved as valuable farmland in the mountainous region with scarce water resources. Although landslides can occur due to typhoons and heavy rains because of the waterways along the mountain paths, they are maintained through the cooperation of the local people. In 2015, their value was globally recognized when they were designated as a Globally Important Agricultural Heritage System, and in 2022, they were selected as one of Japan's "Tsuna-gu Tanada Heritage" sites, with activities continuing to pass them on to the next generation.
"Dai Ichō Observatory," built in 2022, is known as a place where you can see the beautiful scenery of Sennin no Tanada. In the early morning, the rice terraces appear to float in a sea of clouds, creating a fantastical sight as if immortals were living there. It's said that this mysterious spectacle is the origin of the name "Sennin no Tanada."
This spot is recommended for those who want to experience the atmosphere of a hidden gem or see the magnificent view of terraced rice fields floating in a sea of clouds.
Business hours: 24 hours
Charge: Free
Access: Approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes by rental car from Hyugashi Station on the JR Nippo Main Line.
Shiiba Village Tourism Association Official Website
Kamigori Town, a "Town of Water" nurtured by clear streams [Hyogo]
Kamigori Town is a naturally rich town located in Hyogo Prefecture, most of which is surrounded by mountains and hills. Beautiful rural scenery stretches along the Chigusa River, which flows through the center of town. The Chigusa River is loved by the local people as the "river that never dries up" and has also been selected as one of the Top 100 Famous Waters of Japan.
Kamigori Town is characterized by residential areas and farmland spreading along the river, with scattered villages in between. With many sunny days and a mild climate, it's perfect for a leisurely stroll.
In the summer, the "River Festival" is held, attracting many local residents. The sight of 1,700 fireworks illuminating the night sky against the backdrop of the Chikusa River is breathtaking. In addition, there are fun events that utilize the blessings of water, such as a river fish catching experience and water activities. The River Festival is considered a homecoming day that welcomes people from outside Kamigori Town, so if you're interested, please visit.
In an area with a preserved old-fashioned townscape, you'll find the art space "Gallery Higashikura," renovated from a former sake brewery. At the cafe, which retains the brewery's atmosphere, you can reportedly enjoy unique menu items like brown rice pizza and amazake ice cream.
This is a recommended spot for those who want to be healed by clear streams and rural landscapes, or for those who want to spend a leisurely time in a traditional townscape.
Business hours: Varies by spot.
Price: Varies by spot
Access: 35 minutes by train on the Sanyo Main Line towards Himeji Station.
Ako Town Tourism Association Official WebsiteThe Kamigori Tourism Association website, "Kamigori Navi," is a comprehensive guide to Kamigori Town, offering information on its attractions, events, delicious local foods, and accommodations. Whether you're a resident or a visitor, this site aims to enrich your experience in Kamigori.
"Minka no Sato Tono" (Tono, the Village of Folk Tales), famous for "Tono Monogatari" [Iwate]
The town of Tono, a village of folk tales, is surrounded by mountains in Iwate Prefecture. Because it is located deep in the mountains, its traditional culture has been preserved as it was.
Tono is famous as the setting for Kunio Yanagita's "Tono Monogatari," which records anecdotes passed down in Tono. Speaking of anecdotes, kappa legends are well-known. There's a spot called "Kappa Buchi" (Kappa Pool) in a small river behind Jokken-ji Temple, and it's said to have an atmosphere that truly feels like kappa might appear. Furthermore, there are actual locations from the stories, so visiting after reading the book will likely enhance your enjoyment.
At "Tono Furusato Village" in Tono, a village renowned for its folk tales, old farmhouses and watermills have been recreated. There are also programs where you can experience straw crafting and traditional cooking, so if you'd like to experience the life of people in old Tono, please visit!
Furthermore, a must-try gourmet experience when visiting Tono is Jingisukan. While it may have a strong association with Hokkaido's cuisine, it's actually a local dish that has been loved in Tono for a long time. At the renowned local establishment, "Tono Meat Center Tono Main Branch," you can savor the authentic taste of Jingisukan.
Tono, a village renowned for its folk tales, is the perfect area for those who wish to enjoy a relaxed, rural atmosphere.
Business hours: Varies by spot
Price: Varies by spot
Access: Approximately 60 minutes by train from Shin-Hanamaki Station
Tono City Tourism Association Official Website
The Tonojikan, a historical landmark of Oshu City, Iwate Prefecture, is a place where you can experience the rich history and culture of the Nanbu clan, who ruled the area for over 700 years. The area is particularly known for its association with the famous samurai Minamoto no Yoshitsune, and the Nanbu clan. **Key Features and Attractions:** * **Tonojikan Site:** The remnants of the former castle town and samurai residences offer a glimpse into the lives of the Nanbu clan. You can explore the foundations of buildings and imagine the bustling activity of the past. * **Historical Significance:** Oshu City has a deep history, and the Tonojikan site plays a crucial role in understanding the feudal era of Japan, especially the role of the Nanbu clan in the Tohoku region. * **Minamoto no Yoshitsune Connection:** The site is linked to the legendary warrior Minamoto no Yoshitsune, adding a layer of historical intrigue and popular appeal. * **Cultural Experience:** Visitors can immerse themselves in the samurai culture through exhibitions, reenactments, and other cultural events that are often held at or near the site. * **Scenic Beauty:** The surrounding area often boasts natural beauty, providing a pleasant backdrop to the historical exploration. **Visiting the Tonojikan:** * **Location:** Oshu City, Iwate Prefecture, Japan. * **Access:** Information on how to reach the site can typically be found on the official website or local tourism guides. * **Facilities:** There may be visitor centers, museums, or shops offering local crafts and souvenirs. The Tonojikan offers a unique opportunity to connect with Japan's samurai past and the enduring legacy of the Nanbu clan.
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"Oyamasenmaida" Rice Terraces, the Closest to Tokyo [Chiba]
Oyama Senmaida is a terraced rice field located in Chiba Prefecture, with 375 paddies arranged in a stepped pattern on a steep slope.
It is known as the rice terrace most easily accessible from the city, located about 90 minutes away by car from Tokyo.
Oyama Senmaida is characterized by a farming method that has been practiced for over 800 years, using only rainwater to cultivate rice, a rarity in Japan. Oyama Senmaida has also been selected as one of the "100 Famous Terraced Rice Fields of Japan," allowing visitors to enjoy a beautiful, traditional pastoral landscape.
Before the rice planting in spring, the water-filled paddies become like large mirrors, reflecting the color of the sky. In summer, you can see the vibrant growth of green rice plants, in autumn the golden ears of rice swaying in the wind, and in winter, a magnificent snowscape spreads out before your eyes. The appealing aspect is that you can enjoy different scenery no matter when you visit throughout the year.
Also, the light-up events held from autumn to winter are a must-see. LED lights that change color every 15 minutes illuminate the terraced rice fields, creating a fantastical world.
At the end of October, the "Terraced Rice Field Night Festival" is also held. The entire terraced rice field is illuminated by thousands of torches and tens of thousands of lights. The fireworks launched into the sky above the rice paddies at the end of the festival are breathtaking.
This is a recommended spot for those seeking a rural landscape easily accessible from urban areas.
Opening Hours: 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM (Tanada Club)
Cost: Free
Access: Approximately 15 minutes by local bus from JR Awa-Kamogawa Station, alight at "Oyama Senmaida Iriguchi" and walk for about 20 minutes.
Oyama Senmaida Preservation Society Official Website
"Hoshitouge Rice Terraces" Floating in a Sea of Clouds [Niigata]
Hoshitouge Rice Terraces are located in Niigata Prefecture and are characterized by approximately 200 rice paddies arranged like fish scales on a mountainside. These beautifully tiered paddies have also been recognized as one of the "Tsunagu Tanada Heritage" sites by the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries.
The best seasons to visit the Hoshitoge Rice Terraces are from spring thaw to rice planting, and from after the autumn harvest until the first snowfall. During these times, the rice paddies are filled with water, creating a "water mirror" effect where the surrounding scenery is reflected on the surface. The view of the terraced fields illuminated by the morning sun is particularly breathtaking.
If you're lucky, you might even be able to witness the breathtaking sight of terraced fields enveloped in a sea of clouds in the early mornings of late June and September. The season when sea of clouds can be seen attracts many photographers hoping to capture the stunning scenery of Hoshi Toge Rice Terraces, so if you prefer a quiet experience, early mornings on weekdays are recommended.
In winter, the scenery changes completely from spring and summer. The rice paddies are outlined in white by the snow, transforming into a fantastical snowscape. However, please remember that since Niigata is a region with heavy snowfall, visits are not possible after December.
If you want to see peaceful nature or enjoy the pastoral scenery that changes with the seasons, try visiting Hoshi-Toge Rice Terraces.
Business hours: Early May to early November
Cost: Free
Access: Approximately 20 minutes by taxi after disembarking at "Matsu-dai Station" on the Hokuhoku Line.
Tokamachi City Tourism Association Official Website
Tokamachi City Tourism Association
The village floating in the sky: "Toyama-go, Shimoguri Village" [Nagano]
Shimoguri no Sato in Toyama-go is a small village nestled deep in the mountains of Nagano Prefecture. Houses and fields are clustered on steep slopes exceeding 800 meters in elevation, and it has been selected as one of the "100 Best Villages in Japan." It is also considered one of Japan's three most secluded villages, requiring about an hour and a half by bus to reach from the nearest station.
The village is nestled among the beautiful Southern Alps, giving it an atmosphere reminiscent of a European mountain village. It's said to be called "Japan's Tyrol" because the scenery of people living their lives amidst the mountains resembles that of the Tyrol region in Austria.
In Toyama-go's Shimo-guri no Sato, amidst the rugged natural landscape, small potatoes known as "Shimo-guri imo," buckwheat, and various grains are cultivated. From late August to September, the sight of pure white buckwheat flowers blooming across the entire mountainside is breathtakingly beautiful.
A well-known event in Toyama-go and Shimoguri no Sato is the "Toyama no Shimotsuki Matsuri" held in December. This festival, which has been passed down in almost its original form since the Heian period, is designated as an Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property of Japan. The Toyama Shimotsuki Matsuri welcomes deities from all over Japan, offers them hot spring water, and prays for the restoration of vitality in the New Year. If you participate, you can experience a mystical atmosphere filled with steam and the fervor of the people.
Business hours: None
Fee: None
Access: 1.5 hours by bus "Toyosato-go Line" from Iida Station
Shinshu Toya Valley (Toya Valley Tourism Association) Official Website
"Aino-gura Gassho-zukuri Village" [Toyama], known as a living World Heritage Site.
The Ainokura Gassho-zukuri village is a settlement in the Gokayama region of Toyama Prefecture registered as a World Heritage site. It was registered as a World Heritage site in 1995 along with Shirakawa-go in Gifu Prefecture.
The Aino-kura Gassho-zukuri village has 20 thatched-roof houses remaining, some dating back 100 to 350 years, with the oldest said to have been built nearly 400 years ago.
The village is drawing attention as a rare "living World Heritage site" because residents still live there today. In particular, six of the houses operate as inns, allowing visitors to experience the traditional village life firsthand if they stay overnight.
Within the village, there are also a local history museum and a traditional crafts museum, where you can learn in detail about the village's history and washi paper making. In addition, there are also plenty of souvenir shops and restaurants, so you can relax and spend a long time here.
The Ainu village of Ainokura Gassho-zukuri also holds nighttime illuminations several times a year. You can enjoy a magical, original landscape, so be sure to check it out. It's the perfect spot for those who want to experience traditional Japanese architecture, are interested in World Heritage sites, or wish to stay overnight and immerse themselves in the local way of life.
Business Hours: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Fee: Free entry to the village (separate fees for facilities)
Access: Get off at the "Akuraguchi" bus stop, then walk 5 minutes.
Nanto City Tourism Association Official Website
The Golden Staircase Spreading Towards the Sea, "Shirayone Senmaida" [Ishikawa]
Shiragome Senmaida is a terraced rice field facing the Sea of Japan on the Noto Peninsula in Ishikawa Prefecture. Approximately 1004 small rice paddies are arranged in a stepped pattern on a roughly 4-hectare seaside slope, and it is known as a representative landscape of Noto. The terraced rice field scenery, which can only be seen here, has been designated as a "Globally Important Agricultural Heritage System," "Tsunagu Tanada Heritage," and a National Place of Scenic Beauty.
Shiromai Senmaida's charming appeal lies in the completely different beautiful scenery you can see depending on when you visit. Around the end of April, during the rice planting season, over a thousand rice paddies are filled with water, becoming giant mirrors reflecting the color of the sky. The beautiful colors of the sunset are reflected in all the paddies, creating a spectacle that looks like a work of art painted by nature.
In summer, the contrast of the green rice swaying in the breeze against the blue sky and sea is beautiful, and in autumn, you can enjoy the sight of golden ears of rice gently rippling.
From autumn to spring, a spectacular illumination event called "Glimmering Terraces" is held, decorating the terraced rice fields with 25,000 lights. The four colors of lighting, representing the seasons, change every 15 minutes, creating a fantastical spectacle. The night view, where the sea, terraced fields, and starry sky merge, offers a romantic atmosphere.
This is recommended for those who want to see the spectacular terraced rice fields that can only be seen here, or for those looking for a night view spot.
Opening Hours: 24 hours
Fee: Free
Access: From Michi-no-Eki Wajima, take the Hokutetsu Okunoto Bus Machino Line to the "Shirayone Senmaida" bus stop, then walk approximately 1 minute.
Wajima City Tourism Association Official Website
Wajima Navi - Your Guide to Wajima
Shirakawa-go, a World Heritage village where the beautiful scenery of old Japan remains [Gifu]
Shirakawa-go is a village located deep in the mountains of Gifu Prefecture, registered as a UNESCO World Heritage site. With 114 gassho-style houses with thatched roofs standing in rows, it is the largest gassho village in Japan and symbolizes the "original landscape of Japan."
In 1976, it was designated as an Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings, and in 1995, it was registered as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site along with the Ainokura Gassho-zukuri village in Gokayama. Even today, as a "living cultural heritage," residents continue to cherish and protect the historic buildings and traditional lifestyles while actually living here.
If you want to see the spectacular scenery of Shirakawa-go, winter is recommended. Shirakawa Village is one of Japan's snowiest regions, and in winter it is covered in deep snow for four to five months. Visiting in winter, the snow piled on the thatched roofs is illuminated by the sun, creating a world of pure white.
Annual illuminations are also held on specific days in January and February. You can enjoy a magical world that feels like stepping into a fairy tale. Please check it out as reservations are required.
After enjoying the scenery, why not also visit the natural hot spring located within Shirakawa-go? The hot spring offers a space filled with the scent of wood, designed with consideration for the World Heritage landscape, allowing you to relax while gazing at the view of the gassho-zukuri farmhouses.
For those who want to encounter iconic rural landscapes or are interested in World Heritage sites, try visiting Shirakawa-go first.
Business Hours: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Price: Free
Access: Approximately 50 minutes by bus from Takayama Station on the JR Hida Line.
Shirakawa-go Tourism Association Official Website
Shirakawa-go is a village located in the northern part of Gifu Prefecture. It is characterized by its unique gassho-zukuri farmhouses, and the entire village is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site. It is a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from Japan and abroad to experience its historical atmosphere and natural beauty.
"Miyama Kayabuki no Sato" Where You Can Encounter Old Japanese Villages [Kyoto]
Miyama Kayabuki no Sato is a village located in the mountainous region of Kyoto Prefecture. Of the 50 houses in the village, 39 have thatched roofs, preserving the scenery of traditional Japanese villages.
In the "Kita" district, designated a National Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings in 1993, various thatched-roof folk houses dating back 150 to 200 years stand in rows. Residents continue to preserve the beautiful scenery while living here, creating a peaceful and nostalgic atmosphere.
At the local history museum in Miyama Kayabuki no Sato, a farmhouse from about 200 years ago has been restored, allowing you to see the inside of the thatched roof and glimpse into past daily life. Displays include a hearth, areas where livestock were kept, and farming tools, offering a real experience of village life from that era. The facility also has a veranda where you can leisurely admire the thatched-roof scenery, so be sure to check it out when you visit.
Miyama Kayabuki no Sato is famous for its winter spectacle, the "Yukidōrō" (Snow Lanterns). Eighteen thatched-roof houses are illuminated, and approximately 900 handmade snow lanterns and flower lanterns gently light up the mountain village. Fireworks are also launched on the opening and closing nights, allowing you to enjoy a collaboration of snowy landscapes and light.
This is a recommended spot for those who want to experience the original Japanese landscape in Kyoto, or for those who want to fully enjoy the beauty of snow scenery and illuminations.
Opening Hours: 24 hours
Cost: None
Access: 1 hour 50 minutes by Keihan Kyoto Kotsu bus from JR Kyoto Station.
Miyama Kayabuki no Sato Official Website
"Shimanto River and Sunken Bridges" [Kochi]: Fully Enjoy the Beauty of the River
The Shimanto River and its submerged bridges are a beautiful, pristine landscape of the original scenery of Kochi Prefecture. The Shimanto River is the longest river in Shikoku, measuring 196 km in length, and is known as a remarkably clean river, often called "Japan's Last Clear Stream."
When it comes to the specialties of the Shimanto River, the chin-ka-bashi (submergible bridges) come to mind. Chin-ka-bashi are bridges without handrails, built to submerge underwater during floods. There are many such bridges along the main stream alone, and the Shimanto River basin is designated as an Important Cultural Landscape, preserving such precious scenery.
Among sunken bridges, the most famous is the Sada Sunken Bridge. It's the longest bridge in the lower reaches of the Shimanto River and is still used by locals as a living road. From the bridge, you can get a panoramic view of the natural beauty of the Shimanto River. The charm lies in the landscape where the river and people are in harmony, a feeling you can only experience from a bridge deeply rooted in daily life.
If you're looking for a hidden gem of a submerged bridge, Sanri Chinka-bashi is recommended. It's said to be less crowded with tourists, allowing you to have a magnificent view all to yourself during sunset. It's perfect for those who want to avoid crowds and quietly enjoy the beauty of the Shimanto River.
If you'd like to spend your time relaxing and watching the river flow, why not stop by?
Business Hours: 24 hours
Fee: Free
Access: Varies by spot
Shimanto City Tourism Association Official Website
Shimanto River's charm and beauty, a journey through the "last clear stream" of Japan.
The spectacular sunset sinking into the Genkai Sea, "Doya Rice Terraces" [Nagasaki]
Tsuchiya Rice Terraces are rice terraces located on the coast of Nagasaki Prefecture. Considered particularly beautiful among Japan's Top 100 Rice Terraces, approximately 400 rice paddies are arranged in a staircase pattern facing the Genkai Sea.
While terraced rice paddies utilizing steep terrain can be found throughout Japan, there are few that offer the same sense of openness and panoramic sea views as Tsuchitani Tanada. The landscape where the sea and rice paddies merge is truly a quintessential vision of rural Japan. Facing west towards the sea, the sight of the sun setting over the Genkai Sea dyeing the paddies orange is a breathtaking and moving spectacle.
Many photographers visit Tsuchiya Rice Terraces to capture the spectacular scenery. What's captivating is that you can see different stunning views depending on the season, such as the beautiful scenery of the contrast between vibrant green and the blue sea in summer, and the golden rice ears shining under the setting sun in autumn.
Every September, a "Fire Festival" is held, where approximately 3,000 lanterns are lined up in the terraced rice fields. It is said to be very popular not only with locals but also with tourists, as it creates a mystical spectacle.
If you want to fully enjoy the spectacular scenery created by the sea and rice terraces, or if you want to be moved by a beautiful sunset, you should definitely go.
Opening Hours: 24 hours
Fee: None
Access: Approximately 50 minutes by Seihu Bus from Imari Station on the Matsuura Railway to Fukushima Port bus stop, then an additional 20 minutes by regular bus.
Matsura City Tourism Association Official Website
In conclusion
This time, we introduced 12 selections of Japan's beautiful rural original landscapes.
Across Japan, there are many "original landscapes" that can soothe the soul, such as terraced rice fields carefully preserved by our predecessors, old residential areas, and beautiful river scenery.
Refer to this article and visit natural spots that change their appearance with the seasons to spend some time healing.
