Trek through picturesque landscapes that feel like they’ve been pulled straight from a painting—this is real Japan. In the mountain regions, terraced rice fields symbolize centuries of history and culture. From historical records, we know that residents in this heavy-snow region carved these tiered paddies through meticulous, hardworking effort. You’ll walk through deep cedar forests and ancient paths, experiencing one of Japan’s most beautiful landscapes. Witness the everyday rhythms of rural life—rice planting and harvesting, foraging wild plants along the trail, and spotting traces of local wildlife—to feel Japan’s history and culture come alive.

Outline

1, Follow the Samurai’s Path through History and Nature

You’ll walk the old Matsunoyama Kaidō, said to have been taken by the famed warlord Uesugi Kenshin during his campaigns toward the Kanto region. This historic path still holds echoes of samurai footsteps—stone Buddhas, shrines, and the remnants of mountaintop castles seem to silently pray for travelers’ safety. The route intersects terraced rice paddies where rice cultivation has long supported local life. As you follow the way of the samurai, enjoy the rich tapestry of history, nature, and enduring everyday life.

2, Guided Treks into Snow-Country Village Life
Accompanied by a dedicated guide, explore the satoyama’s seasonal varieties of nature and lifestyle. Discover original snow-country architecture, pure spring water streaming from beech forests, and centuries-old stone statues watching over the settlements. With each step, you’ll encounter the wisdom of those who lived in harmony with heavy winter weather and land stewardship practices. There may even be buttonholes of chance—meeting people tending to their fields, sharing conversation, or receiving a friendly wave, making your journey all the richer.

3, Echoes of a Changing Reality
These breathtaking rice terraces and village scenes are preserved by generations of care. Yet many mountain communities now face labor and demographic challenges, threatening the continuity of traditional paddies. During the “water mirror” season, the landscapes draw many admirers—but this beauty also brings dilemmas for the local people. Our tour thoughtfully explores both the scenic wonder and the underlying realities facing rural Japan today, inviting you to enjoy—and to reflect.

Each course offers a unique way to experience “real Japan.” Whether you choose Hoshitōge, with its satoyama rice terrace vistas and ecological tapestry, or the Historical Section along Matsunoyama Kaidō, tracing the samurai path—both invite connection: with nature, with history, and with people.