Hamanoura Rice Terraces Observation Deck

Flow of the course

About this spot

Rice terraces in the Hamanoura district of Genkai Town, where 283 paddies cascade in a staircase formation on a hillside cut by a small stream flowing to the sea. These paddies, painstakingly carved out as predecessors stacked stones, are layered from the seaward side all the way up the hill, and their architectural beauty is recognized in Japan's One Hundred Best Rice Terraces. From the observation deck along the national road, you can see the terraces and Genkai Sea's inlet at once. The mirror-like landscape of the sky reflected in the paddies is breathtaking. The rice fields display completely different expressions with the seasons—at planting time and when the rice ears ripen. The sunset landscape, where the setting sun tints the sea and terraces crimson, is known as one of Saga's representative vistas.

Tips

The observation deck is along the national road with a parking lot, but at twilight, photographers gather and it gets crowded. The rice terraces are active paddies tended by local farmers, so refrain from entering the ridge paths and view from the observation deck. Binoculars let you enjoy the shimmer of the sea surface and details of the paddies.

Best time to visit

Allow approximately 1 hour. Afternoon light angles from the sea side, making the paddies and sea surface sparkle beautifully.

Access & map

〒847-1433 佐賀県東松浦郡玄海町浜野浦