Pop Japan

Located in Touge, Tokamachi, Niigata Prefecture, the Hoshitouge Rice Terraces are actually part of a private property. But due to the grandiose scenery it provides, the place has gained worldwide recognition and even made it to the top 100 Japanese villages.

The place also changes its aura every season, making it a relaxing destination all-year round. In spring, sakura or cherry blossoms fill the air with an enchanting pink hue. Rice is grown during summer so the fields are green during this time. In autumn, red leaves are perking up the atmosphere. It is also during autumn that the fields are filled with water, making the place a mizukagami, or water mirror, wherein the water reflects the blue sky above.

The place is just a 20-minute car-ride from the Matsudai Station of the Hokuhoku Line. If you will be coming from the Muikamachi interchange of the National Route 253, it will take you an hour to reach the rice fields. From Joetsu interchange, it is another hour by car.