Rice paddies and thatched-roof houses nestled against the breathtaking backdrop of the Northern Alps create a scene that feels like stepping back in time.
The Hakuba Village Aoni Traditional Buildings Preservation District, located in Hakuba Village, Kitaazumi District, Nagano Prefecture, is designated as an Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings. It features thatched-roof houses built from the late Edo period to the Meiji era, serving as valuable cultural assets that offer a glimpse into the lives of people from that time. The sight of 14 main thatched-roof houses lined up along the contour lines, forming a traditional farming village landscape, is a must-see. To the east of the village, rice terraces and stone walls, irrigated by the "Aoni-seki" canal—carved into bedrock from the late Edo to Meiji periods—exist in harmony with the traditional buildings, preserving a historic landscape of great value. With the majestic mountain range of the Hakuba Mountains as a backdrop, the rice paddies and thatched-roof houses create a picturesque scene, captivating visitors with its beauty. Aoni district also boasts many local folktales and legends, making it an ideal spot for those seeking a relaxing escape while immersing themselves in history and culture.