Located by the shore of the Sea of Japan in northeastern Yamaguchi prefecture, Higashi Ushirobata's rice terraces are among the top 100 rice fields of Japan!

The evening views from here are spectacular. With the sun setting into the Sea of Japan and the lights used by squid fishing boats creating an infinitely glistening scene, the view can be said to represent spring in Japan.

Japan has many rice terraces that face the ocean, and they have all gained popularity in their respective areas, just like these.

Securing irrigation water for farming is essential, and Fukada reservoir replenishes the Higashi Ushirobata area. It's located right behind the terraces and has been selected as one of Japan's top 100 water reservoirs by Japan's Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries.

 

The Higashi Ushirobata rice terraces include around 200 paddy fields. Canals and ridges have been skilfully created so that tractors, etc. can easily come and go during the planting and harvesting seasons.

Fishing boats depart from the port below. One of the characteristics of these terraced fields is that you can observe both fishing and farming at the same time.

 

But, what these fields are most known for is the evening view! Water is added to the fields in early May, and from then on, as the evening hours grow nearer, many people come to see the view.

Creating dream-like scenery, the water filled paddies reflect the sky and the surroundings almost like mirrors.

 

And as it's an area where mist is easily formed, the evening view with the fields wrapped in mist is also a beautiful sight.

 

This is the moment just before sunset on a day without mist. The sun sets right at the end of the peninsula, near Kawashiri cape. Sunset clouds are reflected in the paddies – a truly camera-friendly moment!

Another thing that these terraced fields are famed for is the view of squid fishing fires!

 

After sunset, the view is filled with innumerous shining fishing fires. The number of squid boats that set out is apparently particularly high on Sunday evenings!

 

 

An observation deck, a gazebo, and a rest room can be found at the parking area nearby. Every year, right before and just after rice planting season, many people come to see the sunset and the fishing fires.
 

Rice is usually planted around mid-May. As the rice plants grow, you won't be able to see the water anymore, so the best time to go s from early May until around mid-June.

How about a visit to the terraced fields of Higashi Ushirobata to see the dreamlike scenery of spring?

Location: Higashi Ushirobata, Yuya, Nagato city, Yamaguchi prefecture
Guide Homepage: http://www.oidemase.or.jp/tourism-information/spots/13663 (Japanese)
 

Setouchi Finder Photo-writer: Hironobu Matsuoka