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Yoshinobu Rice Terraces: A Step Back in Time

Discover the breathtaking Yoshinobu Rice Terraces in Kochi: a timeless landscape showcasing Japan's rich agricultural heritage and stunning natural beauty.

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The Yoshinobu Rice Terraces in Motoyama, Kochi Prefecture, offer a stunning view of traditional Japanese agriculture. These terraced paddies, carved into the hillsides, showcase a centuries-old method of rice farming, reflecting the ingenuity and perseverance of local farmers.

A brief summary to Yoshinobu Rice Terraces

  • Yoshinobu, Motoyama, Yoshinobu, Nagaoka District, Kochi, 781-3603, JP
  • Visit website
  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Visit during the planting season (spring) or harvest season (autumn) for the most visually stunning experience.
  • Check the local bus schedule in advance, as services may be infrequent.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking along the pathways through the terraces.
  • Try the local Tenku no Sato rice, known for its exceptional flavor.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Kochi Station, take the JR Dosan Line train towards Tadotsu. Get off at Motoyama Station (approximately a 1-hour ride). From Motoyama Station, take a local bus (Nagaoka Bus) towards Yoshinobu for about 20 minutes. The bus will drop you off near the Yoshinobu Rice Terraces. Bus schedules vary, so check in advance. Train fare: approximately ¥1,000-¥2,000. Bus fare: approximately ¥400-¥600.

  • Taxi

    From Motoyama Station, a taxi ride to Yoshinobu Rice Terraces takes approximately 15 minutes. The estimated cost is ¥2,000-¥2,500.

  • Car

    From Kochi City, head north on Route 32 towards Nagaoka District. After approximately 45 km, take the exit toward Motoyama. Follow the signs for Motoyama and continue on Route 439 for about 15 km. Turn left onto Yoshinobu Road. Parking facilities are available near the terraces. Parking is free.

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Discover more about Yoshinobu Rice Terraces

Nestled in the serene hills of Motoyama, the Yoshinobu Rice Terraces present a breathtaking panorama of traditional agricultural practices harmonizing with the natural landscape. These tiered rice paddies cascade down the mountainside, offering visitors a unique glimpse into the enduring relationship between people and the land. Cultivated for centuries, possibly dating back to the Heian era (794-1185), the terraces embody the ingenuity of past generations who shaped the terrain to sustain their communities. Each season paints a different picture: spring brings shimmering reflections of water mirroring the sky, while autumn transforms the terraces into a sea of golden rice ready for harvest. The meticulous care taken by local farmers highlights their dedication to preserving this cultural heritage. Visitors can explore the area, gaining insight into traditional farming methods that continue to support rural life in Japan. The rice produced here, known as Tenku no Sato (home of the heavens), is considered one of the most delicious in the country, thanks to the area's temperature differences, clay soil, and pure water. An observatory offers panoramic views of the terraces and the surrounding Oishi district. The terraces are not only a feast for the eyes but also a testament to the challenges of cultivating rice on mountainous landscapes, a technique perfected over generations.

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