Terraced rice fields in Ioritani settlement

Nestled quietly in the mountains of Jinzukyo Gorge is the small hamlet of Ioritani.
As you drive along National Route 41, terraced rice fields suddenly come into view.

The area around Terazu Bridge was once a dead end for boats traveling up the Jinzu River, and a landing place where people and goods came and went.
People's lives developed in the surrounding area, and the terraced rice fields of the Ioritani settlement were created by utilizing the slopes of the mountains.

The rice paddies, gently sloping along the mountainside, evoke a nostalgic, quintessential Japanese landscape.
Changing its colors with each season, it continues to quietly support the lives of people in this land.

Even just gazing at it from the car window during a drive through the Jinzu Gorge is enough to soothe your soul and provide a truly relaxing experience.
It's a place that gives you a little deep breath in between your travels.

*Please note that National Route 41 has heavy traffic and some sections have limited road width. When taking photos, please park in a safe location that does not obstruct traffic and pay close attention to the surrounding traffic conditions. Please refrain from illegal roadside parking or taking photos on the road.