Scenic Walk Through Rice Terraces in a World of Silver
Tokamachi City in Niigata Prefecture is known as one of Japan’s heaviest snowfall areas. The rice terraces (Tanada), which wave with lush greenery in the summer, are completely transformed in winter, buried under meters of snow to become a mystical, silver world resembling an ink wash painting. In this experience, you will strap on “Kanjiki” (traditional Japanese snowshoes)—a folk tool that has served as people’s feet in this snowy region since ancient times—and step into this fantastic landscape. Enjoy the unique walking sensation of these traditional tools, which differs from modern snowshoes, as you satisfy your sense of adventure by treading on fresh, untouched snow. You will venture deep into the heart of the terraces, areas usually inaccessible due to deep snow, and have the 360-degree panoramic view of the silver world and the beautiful, undulating curves of the terrain all to yourself. It is a special experience available only in this season.
Discover the Satoyama Lifestyle with a Local Guide
The appeal of this tour goes beyond a simple walk on the snow. By exploring the rice terraces and the surrounding Satoyama (village forests) with a knowledgeable local guide for about an hour, you will touch upon the deep charm of this land. The guide will provide easy-to-understand explanations about the wisdom ancestors developed to survive the harsh winters, as well as the essential roles the beautiful rice terraces play in water control and ecosystem conservation. Through the guide’s eyes, you will also discover many signs of nature that you might otherwise miss, such as the footprints of small animals left on the snow or winter buds of trees waiting for spring. Even in the seemingly silent snowfield, you will be able to feel the pulse of the local lifestyle that has been passed down through generations and the vibrant workings of nature.
A Special Tea Time Amidst the Snow
After enjoying some light exercise trekking through the snowfields, the untouched snowy landscape transforms into your private open-air café. Surrounded by vast nature with nothing blocking your view, you will be served sweets and natural “Kuromoji” tea, brewed from the spicebush native to the mountains of Tokamachi. The refreshing and elegant aroma unique to Kuromoji helps relax both your mind and body. The moment you sip the hot, steaming tea in the crisp, clear winter air is an irreplaceable bliss. Gazing at the silent snowy scenery while warming yourself from the core with delicious tea is a luxurious relaxation experience that allows you to forget the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy the winter of the snow country with all five senses.
