The Togawa rice terraces of Hinokage and the “rice terraces of the Immortals” of Shiiba Village are some of the breathtaking scenery that demonstrate the local farmers’ dedication to rice farming over countless generations.
Ochiai, Sarukai, and Nishinosho are among the Nishi-Awa villages that climb up the mountainsides. Renowned Japanologist Alex Kerr describes how this area was considered special, not unlike a Shangri-La, even hundreds of years ago.
In Yawatahama, the trawling fishery (offshore seine fishing) began in 1918, and the production of fish meat paste products made from a wide variety of fish has been developed. “Jakoten”, which uses so-called “small fish” such as firefly-fish, is famous, and is used as an ingredient in citizen’s soul food “Yawatahama Champon”. The umami that spreads with the crunchy texture is a unique specialty.
The rice terraces of Tagarasu create a rustic scene surrounded by the sea and mountains. At every turn, the coastline offers new panoramas of natural beauty.
The Maze Satoyama Museum is not a building, but an entire area of Maze where the rural scenery and culture are conserved for visitors. The museum has been designated as a member of the Most Beautiful Villages in Japan, a national non-profit association. Another great place to stop is the Sugo area, which was selected by local residents as one of the “10 Beautiful Views of Maze.” Near Sojima Hachiman-jinja Shrine, visitors can take in sweeping views of the rivers, rice paddies, shrines, temples, and forests that protect the natural habitat for the sweetfish. The panoramas of this verdant country will remain in your heart forever.
Time seems to pass by slowly in the idyllic countryside and magnificent nature landscape of Satoyama. Take a deep breath, and take in the scent of the soil and greenery. The Ayu yana (a low head dam for sweetfish) is a summer tradition where you can enjoy the splashes of the water and the breeze across the river. While looking out at the clear waters of the Naka River in front of you, you can enjoy the fantastic taste of sweetfish dishes.
