Verified [Verified] denotes information that has been published with confirmation of its owing parties.

Hoshitoge Rice Terraces

Majestic views of a country farm beneath an ocean of clouds.

3.95 1

Last update :

The rice terraces of Matsudai, Matsunoyama region of Tokamachi Town is one of “Japan’s 100 Selected Villages”. With around 200 rice farms placed on the slants of a mountain, the views truly reflect “Komedokoro Niigata” (Niigata the rice place of Japan). One might also remember this location as one of the opening film locations of NHK’s historical epic, “Tenchijin”.

The best views are available during autumn. Water reflects views like a mirror on the rice farms after harvesting. There might also be an ocean of clouds in the morning if one is lucky. Other than Autumn, Niigata shows many faces during its seasons, such as spring with beautiful fresh green, summer with lush green rice fields, and the white-snow dressed winter.

Keep in mind that this is a private farm, not a tourist spot. They are owned by locals, so make sure to show some respect by not entering the farm without permission. During the Winter, visitors may not view the farm because the road is not plowed.

Highlights

  • One of the majestic “Japan’s 100 Selected Villages”.
  • Best season is during late autumn (late October - November) and spring (April – June) when water is placed on the farm.
  • Make sure to pay respect by not entering farms without permission and to stop littering.

Photos

  • The mornings of Autumn where water reflects the ocean of clouds.

    The mornings of Autumn where water reflects the ocean of clouds.

  • The green springs of the rice farm.

    The green springs of the rice farm.

  • Early Winter bathed in the morning sunlight.

    Early Winter bathed in the morning sunlight.

Reviews

1
  • 夏婉欣

    這山路旁就能欣賞到十日町地區⋯不同於一般觀光景點的優美景色ʕ •ᴥ•ʔ

Details

Name in Japanese
星峠の棚田
Postal Code
942-1351
Address
Toge, Tokamachi City, Niigata
Telephone
025-597-3442 (Matsudai, Matsunoyama Hot Springs Tourist Bureau)
Hours
Free to see anytime
※No entry for cars during Winter due to lack of snow plowing.
Access
1) 20 minute taxi ride from Hokuhoku Line Matsudai Station
2) 1 hour car ride from Kanetsu Expressway Muikamachi IC or Hokuriku Expressway Joetsu IC.
Official Website
Official Website (English)