Located along the Noto Peninsula coastline in Wajima City, Ishikawa Prefecture, Shiroyone Senmaida—literally “A Thousand Rice Fields of Shiroyone”—is a spectacular series of terraced rice paddies that cascade down towards the Sea of Japan. The name “Senmaida” refers to the hundreds of small plots that together form a breathtaking mosaic of green, gold, or shimmering water, depending on the season.
Highlights
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Dramatic Seaside Landscape
Unlike most rice terraces, Shiroyone Senmaida sits directly beside the sea, offering a rare combination of rural charm and dramatic ocean views. The sight of the sun setting over the waves, with the paddies reflecting the colors of the sky, is unforgettable.
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Seasonal Beauty
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Spring – Water-filled paddies mirror the sky.
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Summer – Lush green rice plants sway in the breeze.
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Autumn – Golden fields ready for harvest.
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Winter – Snow blankets the terraces in a serene white.
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Night Illumination
From mid-October to mid-March, the terraces are lit up in the "Aze no Kirameki" event, with thousands of LED lights creating a magical, starry effect over the fields.
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Cultural Heritage
Shiroyone Senmaida is designated as a Special Place of Scenic Beauty by the Japanese government and is recognized as part of the Globally Important Agricultural Heritage Systems (GIAHS).
Visitor Information
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Location: Shiroyone Town, Wajima City, Ishikawa Prefecture
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Access: About 30 minutes by bus or car from Wajima City Center
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Best Time to Visit: Spring for reflections, autumn for golden fields, or winter for illumination events
Why Visit?
Shiroyone Senmaida offers a unique blend of agricultural tradition and natural beauty. It’s a place where the artistry of human cultivation meets the grandeur of the sea, creating a scene that changes with every season.
Whether you visit under the golden sunset, in the quiet of winter’s lights, or during the vibrant green of summer, Shiroyone Senmaida is more than just rice fields—it’s a living landscape that tells the story of harmony between people and nature.
Official Website
https://www.ishikawatravel.jp/en/spots/senmaida-rice-terraces/
Accommodation sites
Agoda
