🗺️ Sicun Terraced Fields四ヶ村の棚田

Shimomura is not a place name, but rather a collective term for four settlements in Ōkura Village, Yamagata Prefecture: "Hōboku," "Takiwara," "Numadai," and "Hirabayashi." These four villages are known for having the largest terraced rice fields in the Tōhoku region of Japan. The total area of the terraced fields reaches 120 hectares and has been selected as one of the "Top 100 Terraced Rice Fields in Japan." The endless terraced fields showcase various beautiful scenes as the seasons change. In spring, the rice paddies filled with water reflect the blue sky and white clouds like mirrors; in summer, the vibrant green rice sways under the sunlight; in autumn, the heavy rice ears create waves of gold across the fields; and in winter, the terraced fields covered in snow transform into a world of silver. It is worth mentioning that Ōkura Village is one of the areas in Japan with the highest snowfall. The "Shimomura Terraced Rice Field Firefly Music Festival," held on the first Saturday of August each year, is a summer highlight of the Shimomura terraced fields. About 1,200 firefly lanterns illuminate the rolling terraced fields, creating a dreamlike atmosphere. Experiencing a concert in such an environment is an indescribably wonderful experience. Approximately a 15-minute drive from the Shimomura terraced fields is the "Hijiore Onsen," which has a history of over 1,200 years since its opening. The name Hijiore Onsen comes from an ancient legend. It is said that an old monk (Jizō Gongen) accidentally broke his elbow, and after soaking in the hot springs here, he quickly healed. In addition to the hot springs, the unique Hijiore Morning Market near the Shimomura terraced fields is also quite famous. Shops and inns display freshly picked fruits, vegetables, and mountain delicacies, attracting many tourists. The warm scene of local grandmothers and grandfathers selling vegetables while chatting kindly with visitors is particularly heartwarming.

The terraced fields present a variety of beautiful landscapes that change with the seasons. In winter, the terraced fields covered in ice and snow transform into a white world adorned in silver. The nearby Ejiri Onsen area is a well-known hot spring resort in Japan.