Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Hoshitoge Rice Terraces, located in Tokamachi City, Niigata Prefecture, is one of Japan's most representative rice terrace landscapes. Layers of small rice fields are regularly arranged along the gentle mountain slope, and the scenery created by their curves and steps changes its appearance depending on the season and time of day, making it a long-standing favorite among photography enthusiasts and landscape lovers. The place name "Hoshitoge" is an ancient name, said to derive from the beautiful scenery that is likened to the night sky and stars (although there is no legend related to a specific "star").
One of its distinctive features is that it has different charms throughout the seasons, such as the "water mirror" that reflects the sky and morning mist on the water surface when the rice is filled with water before planting, the combination of golden rice ears and morning mist in autumn, and the pure white scenery of snow-covered terraces in winter. Photographing the "sea of clouds" before dawn and the starry sky (Milky Way) in summer is also very popular.
Highlights
- The undulating rice terraces seen from the observation point: The composition created by the beautiful curves of the rice terraces and the rural mountains in the distance is breathtaking.
- Water season (spring): The water in the rice fields reflects the sky and the morning glow, creating a "water mirror." This is the peak season for photography.
- Early morning mist (summer to autumn): When low clouds and mist envelop the rice terraces, a fantastical "sea of clouds" can be seen.
- Autumn rice (September to October): The golden rice terraces contrast with the morning mist.
- Winter scenery (November to March): A monochromatic terraced landscape created by snow. Depending on the amount of snow, it becomes a completely different world.
- Photographing the starry sky and Milky Way (on clear nights from summer to early autumn): As there are few large light sources in the surrounding area, you can capture the night sky and rice terraces together.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Nearest station: Tokamachi Station in the center of Tokamachi City (connects to the JR/Hokuhoku Line) or Echigo-Yuzawa Station (Shinkansen) are the most popular. *Public transportation is limited.
- Bus: It may be possible to access the area from Tokamachi Station by local bus or tourist bus, but please check in advance as there are few buses.
- Taxi: It is convenient to take a taxi from Tokamachi Station or Echigo-Yuzawa Station (approximately 20-30 minutes by car from Tokamachi Station, and approximately 1 hour from Echigo-Yuzawa Station).
- Car/Rental Car: The most convenient way to explore the area is by car. Enter the mountain village via national or prefectural roads, and there are small parking spaces (limited spaces) near the observation points. In winter, chains or four-wheel drive are required in some areas.
- Parking: There are often several parking spaces available near the observation deck, but if they are full, please be careful not to park on the shoulders of the roads or farm roads in the area. Please follow local instructions.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Short visit: 30 minutes to 1 hour (if you just want to enjoy the view from the observation deck).
- Take your time and focus on photography: 2-3 hours (if you are aiming for the morning glow, sunrise, fog, or water reflection, prepare before sunrise).
- If you include sightseeing in the surrounding area: Half a day to a full day (if combining with other tourist attractions and museums).
Nearby spots
- Kiyotsukyo Gorge: Famous for its steep gorge and beautiful valley scenery. Easily accessible by car.
- Artworks from the Echigo-Tsumari region (venue of the Echigo-Tsumari Art Triennale): Enjoy the fusion of contemporary art and rural mountain scenery.
- Matsudai area: There are local museums, satoyama experience spots, cafes, and more.
- Matsunoyama Onsen and other hot spring resorts around Matsunoyama: Relax in the hot springs after a day of photography and sightseeing.
- Tokamachi city: You can enjoy locally produced textiles (such as Echigo Jofu) and local cuisine.
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Crowds: The area is especially crowded with photographers during the spring flooding season, before the rice harvest in autumn, at sunrise, on weekends and holidays. Parking is limited, so we recommend arriving early.
- Manners: The rice terraces are a place for local people to live and farm. Entering the rice fields or footpaths, interfering with farm work, and trespassing on private property without permission are strictly prohibited. Please be sure to take any trash with you and enjoy the rice terraces quietly.
- Drones: Flying drones without permission is dangerous and can cause trouble. If you are flying a drone, be sure to get permission from the landowner or local government and follow all applicable rules.
- Safety precautions: The roads near the observation points are narrow, and visibility is poor before dawn and at night. When setting up tripods or equipment, please be careful not to block the road, and please bring headlights and reflective materials.
- Seasonal Notes:
- Spring to early summer: It can be chilly in the early mornings, so be sure to dress warmly.
- Summer: Insect repellent is recommended. Depending on the weather, fog may occur, reducing visibility.
- Autumn: It can get quite chilly before sunrise. If you want to see the morning mist, you'll need to get up early.
- Winter: Heavy snowfall and freezing can cause road closures and require winter vehicle equipment (studless tires and chains). Please check in advance as it may be impossible to access the area depending on the weather.
Finally, the Hoshitoge rice terraces are an important resource for the region, and the beautiful scenery can only be preserved with the consideration of each and every visitor. If you are visiting specifically for photography, please be sure to check your early morning and evening plans, transportation options, and parking locations in advance to ensure a safe and well-mannered visit.
