Karihama Terraced Rice Paddies

Overview

Karihama's terraced rice paddies in Karihama, Akihamacho, Saiyo City, Ehime Prefecture, present a breathtaking landscape of limestone retaining walls stacked in tiers. During the Edo period, this region flourished as a fishing village due to its abundant sardine catch. However, as the catch decreased over time, people sought new sources of income, beginning to cultivate fields on the slopes. The farmers of that era painstakingly transported limestone by hand and built the retaining walls to create these fields. The result of their efforts remains today as these beautiful terraced rice paddies. Karihama's terraced rice paddies captivate visitors with the stunning contrast of the blue sky, white stone walls, and verdant fields. While a short walk from the parking lot is required, take your time strolling, and feel the history of how the people cultivated and preserved this land. Moreover, various crops such as mandarin oranges and vegetables are cultivated in Karihama's terraced rice paddies, intimately connected to the lives of the local people. Surrounding the terraced fields is a village that retains the vestiges of the former fishing village, allowing visitors to experience a sense of history. Karihama's terraced rice paddies are a harmonious blend of nature and culture, truly embodying the essence of a quintessential "Japanese landscape." We highly recommend a visit.