Sannouji Tanada

The Sannouji Tanada terraced rice fields have been designated as one of Japan's top 100 terraced rice fields, recognized by the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries in 1999. Located on a hillside in Unnan City, Shimane Prefecture, these agricultural terraces sit at an elevation of 300 meters above sea level. The approximately 200 terraced rice fields cover an area of 19 hectares and are preserved by farmers in the district. In 2022, Sannouji Tanada was selected as part of the "Tsunagu Tanada Isan" (Connected Terraced Rice Field Heritage) program, further cementing its status as a culturally significant agricultural landscape.

The terraced fields represent centuries of agricultural ingenuity in Japan's mountainous regions, where farmers transformed sloped terrain into productive farmland. Local farmers continue to maintain these fields using traditional methods, ensuring the preservation of both the landscape and agricultural heritage. The site is also home to Sannouji Kagura, a type of Shinto ritual ceremonial dance designated as a Shimane Prefecture intangible cultural asset, reflecting the rich traditional culture that remains woven into daily life in the community.

Visitors to Sannouji Tanada can experience the fields' dramatic seasonal transformations. In autumn, the fields' undulating waves of grain create a stunning sight. The site features an observation deck offering unobstructed views across the terraced landscape. In the early morning, visitors may witness the spectacular "sea of clouds" phenomenon, while winter brings opportunities to photograph the snow-covered terraces. Throughout the year, the site hosts a terraced rice field festival and operates an "Agriculture School" called "Tanbo no Gakko", where visitors can participate in hands-on rice cultivation activities including planting and harvesting.

The terraced fields are located at 588 Daitochosannoji, Unnan, Shimane. The site is approximately 20 minutes by car from Izumo Daito Station on the JR Kisuki Line, or about 30 minutes by car from the Mitoya Kisuki Interchange on the Onomichi Matsue Line expressway. Unnan City is approximately 20 minutes by car from Izumo Enmusubi Airport. For those using public transportation, the nearest rail connection is the JR Kisuki Line. Admission to the terraced fields is free.