Onigi Terraced Rice Fields: A Living Canvas of Rural Japan

In the tranquil countryside of Hasami Town, Nagasaki Prefecture, the Onigi Terraced Rice Fields (Onigi Tanada) offer an unforgettable portrait of traditional Japanese agriculture. Carved into the natural amphitheater of Mount Kokuzo's foothills, these magnificent terraces provide visitors with a glimpse into Japan's enduring relationship with the land.

Centuries of Agricultural Artistry

Dating back to the mid-Edo period (1603-1868), these meticulously crafted, stone-bordered terraces follow the natural contours of the mountainside in a graceful horseshoe formation. This remarkable fusion of human ingenuity and the surrounding landscape has not only sustained local communities but also created one of Nagasaki's most breathtaking vistas.

Nature's Ever-Changing Display

Throughout the year, the terraces undergo a stunning transformation, reflecting the shifting seasons—delicate green shoots unfurl in spring, the paddies mirror the expansive summer skies, and golden rice stalks gently sway in the autumn breeze. In August, some years see hundreds of candles illuminate the landscape, their flickering flames mirrored in the water-filled fields, marking the start of the rice planting season. September brings the beloved Onigi Tanada Festival, where more than 100 whimsical scarecrows, crafted by the local community, dot the terraces. Festival-goers can participate in terraced field walks and delight in harvesting fresh edamame. In early October, the striking red of Japanese spider lilies blooms against the backdrop of the rice fields, heralding the arrival of fall. Rice planting occurs from May to June, while harvesting takes place between September and October.

A Community's Commitment

Once threatened by abandonment, these historic fields were saved thanks to the tireless efforts of the local community. Today, their dedication ensures the terraces remain both vital and productive. The Onigi Agricultural Processing Center, which offers local rice and handcrafted miso, stands as a testament to the success of rural revitalization.

An Agricultural Wonder

With approximately 400 terraced fields—the largest collection in Nagasaki Prefecture—Onigi Tanada exemplifies the perfect harmony between human cultivation and natural beauty. Visitors to the region can not only enjoy stunning views but also experience the warm hospitality of a community committed to preserving Japan's agricultural heritage for future generations.