Terraced paddy field “Tanada” in Inakura

The view of the Northern Alps, the Yatsugatake mountain range, and the Utsukushi plain, as well as the cityscape of Ueda and the terraced paddy fields of various sizes and shapes, is breathtaking in all seasons. These beautiful terraced paddy fields are still farmed and were selected as one of the “100 Terraced Rice Fields of Japan” by the Ministry of Agriculture. The paddy fields are beautifully spread out, as if nestled in a valley at about 750 meters above sea level.

There are several side-hole tombs from the 700s along the ridges, indicating that people have been living here since ancient times, and it is considered that the terraced paddy fields have been created over time.
The best time to visit is from late May to late October.

There are some fantastic events, such as the “Shishi-Odoshi” festival, in which the paddy fields along the valley are lit with candles and people carry torches through the fields to pray for a good harvest and less damage from wild animals. (These events are organized by the owners of the paddies. Visitors must use public transportation since there is no parking lot.)

There is also a camping site where guests can admire the starry sky and the view of the terraced paddy fields all to themselves, so why not stay overnight? Check the website for details.(Only in Japanese)