Spectacular views‼︎ The three major rice terrace spots in Tokamachi, Niigata‼︎
Near Bijinbayashi ForestThere are many beautiful rice terraces, but the most famous one is
The three are “Hoshitoge Rice Terraces”, “Gimei Rice Terraces”, and “Gamo Rice Terraces”. All of these places can be reached by car in 20 to 30 minutes from Bijinbayashi. These rice terraces are some of the most scenic spots in Niigata Prefecture, and are loved by many tourists and photographers.
Hoshitoge rice terraces
The most famous rice terrace spot in Tokamachi, with about 200 rice fieldsIt spreads out in a curve like fish scales.The sight is particularly impressive. From June to October, the rice fields are filled with water,The moment when the sunrise or sunset reflects on the waterMany tourists visit this place in search of.
- In winter, some roads may be closed and inaccessible.
- There may still be snow in April,Check the official information before visitingPlease do.
Gimyo rice terraces
Located along National Route 253, this is an easily accessible spot that can be viewed from the car window. The highlight is the mountain cherry blossoms in the center.The collaboration of cherry blossoms and the water reflection of rice terraces from late April to MayIt is a beauty that leaves you speechless.
Gamou rice terraces
Preserving the original Japanese landscape,A place where you can feel the beauty of SatoyamaThe huts and trees scattered along the rice paddy paths make this a picturesque spot.Due to its characteristics, morning mist is likely to occur, creating a fantastic morning view.is also popular.Many people visit from overseas, and it has become known as a “famous spot known only to those in the know.”
The charm of rice terraces varies with the seasons. The rice terraces offer a different look no matter what season you visit.
- spring: The beauty of fresh greenery and cherry blossoms
- summer: The season of vibrant life, with lush green rice swaying in the wind
- autumn: Spectacular views of golden rice ears (highly recommended)
- winter: A world of silvery silence
【Bijinrin: Just as the name suggests, this is a beautiful beech forest.
“Bijinbayashi” is located in Tokamachi City, Niigata Prefecture.A fantastical forest with neatly arranged beech trees that are about 100 years oldAs its name suggests, the beautiful beech forest reflects the changing nature of the seasons, captivating all who visit.
In the center of the forest there is a small pond.A popular spot for taking reflection photosThe beech trees reflected on the still water’s surface look like a painting created by nature.
I visited in March, and the whole area was covered withBeech trees stood side by side in the snowy world, and just immersing myself in the silence was a soothing experience that helped to calm my mind.
Things to note when visiting in winter
There is a lot of snow in the winter,It is dangerous to wear light clothing such as sneakers. We recommend that you prepare yourself well for the cold weather, wear snowshoes or boots, and enjoy a light trekking experience.
Nearby is “Kyororo Forest School There is a nature experience facility called “Hakone-ji Temple,” which holds events that the whole family can enjoy, such as snowshoe tours in the winter and insect catching and nature observation in the summer.
Access Information
- car: Approximately 2 hours from Niigata City, approximately 3 hours from Tokyo
- public transport: About 30 minutes by bus from JR Tokamachi Station
Summary | Seeking different scenery in different seasons
I visited in March and took photos of the Bijinbayashi forest and rice terraces in winter, but there is still plenty more I want to see. I would like to return next time in the lush greenery of spring or the golden autumn, and capture the light of each season in photographs.I think so. This blog will continue to introduce the beauty of various parts of Japan from a photographer’s perspective. Please look forward to my next adventure.
🔽Niigata Tourism Guide
Video of this place!!（YouTube）
Map of this place.（マップ）
▲Bizin Hayashi
▲Hoshitoge Terraced Rice Fields
▲Gimyo Terraced Rice Terraces
▲Gamou Terraced Rice Fields
I usually introduce photo spots from a photographer’s perspective, but I would like to continue covering topics that are attracting attention like this in the future.
Thank you for reading to the end. I will continue to convey the beauty of Japan. I hope to enrich your lives even a little. I look forward to your opinions and feedback. I hope you will check out other content on Instagram and YouTube.
See you again…
▲ I will continue to post more like this in the future. Thank you for your support.
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