By KEI YOSHIDA/ Staff Writer
November 28, 2024 at 08:00 JST
Terraced rice paddies in the Shiraishino district of Misato, Kumamoto Prefecture, now available for camping, are seen on Oct. 18. (Kei Yoshida)
MISATO, Kumamoto Prefecture--How about camping out in terraced rice paddies that are behind idyllic landscapes known as “satoyama,” or mountain foothills near rural communities?
With this year’s harvest over, terraced paddies in the town’s Shimofukura and Shiraishino districts are now available to campers.
The two locations are included in the list of outstanding terraced rice fields under the “Tsunagu Tanada Heritage” initiative by the farm ministry, which is aimed at encouraging their conservation.
Local residents take pride in the pastoral countryside, characterized by layers of rice terraces sprawling along the hillsides.
A local association comprising residents, tourism industry members and others had been wondering how to capitalize on the stunning local scenery.
They came up with the idea of offering the fields as weekend-only campgrounds after the rice is harvested.
It costs 4,000 yen ($26) for a one-person group, with 500 yen charged for each additional person.
Campers are required to use toilets and water at nearby community centers and open spaces.
Each group will be provided with 2 kilograms of rice newly harvested there.
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