Maruyama Senmaida: A Living Tapestry of Rice Terraces

Maruyama Senmaida, translating to “a thousand rice paddies,” is a breathtaking spectacle of over 1,300 terraced rice paddies carved into the steep slopes of the Maruyama mountains in Kumano City, Mie Prefecture. Believed to have originated in the 1600s, these paddies stand as a testament to the enduring traditions of Japanese agriculture and the harmonious relationship between people and nature.Originally, the site boasted over 2,000 paddies, meticulously constructed from stone and mud. Over time, erosion and the challenges of maintenance led to a decline in the number of cultivated fields. However, a dedicated preservation effort by local residents and the government revitalized the area, recognizing its cultural and environmental significance. Today, the paddies are carefully maintained by hand, preserving traditional farming practices.Visiting Maruyama Senmaida offers a unique glimpse into Japan's rural past. The landscape transforms with the seasons, offering distinct and captivating views. In spring, the flooded terraces mirror the sky, creating stunning reflections. Summer brings a vibrant green expanse as the rice plants flourish. Autumn paints the landscape in rich golden hues as the rice ripens, often shrouded in ethereal mountain mist.Visitors can explore the area via walking paths that wind through the paddies, though sturdy footwear is recommended due to the uneven terrain. Several viewing spots offer panoramic vistas of the terraces and surrounding mountains. The smallest rice field is located near the viewing point in the middle of the terraced rice field. The area is also close to the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage route.