Trek through picturesque landscapes that feel like they’ve been pulled straight from a painting—this is real Japan. In the mountain regions, terraced rice fields symbolize centuries of history and culture. From historical records, we know that residents in this heavy-snow region carved these tiered paddies through meticulous, hardworking effort. You’ll walk through deep cedar forests and ancient paths, experiencing one of Japan’s most beautiful landscapes. Witness the everyday rhythms of rural life—rice planting and harvesting, foraging wild plants along the trail, and spotting traces of local wildlife—to feel Japan’s history and culture come alive.

Outline

1, Follow the Samurai’s Path through History and Nature

You’ll walk the old Matsunoyama Kaidō, said to have been taken by the famed warlord Uesugi Kenshin during his campaigns toward the Kanto region. This historic path still holds echoes of samurai footsteps—stone Buddhas, shrines, and the remnants of mountaintop castles seem to silently pray for travelers’ safety. The route intersects terraced rice paddies where rice cultivation has long supported local life. As you follow the way of the samurai, enjoy the rich tapestry of history, nature, and enduring everyday life.

2, Guided Treks into Snow-Country Village Life
Accompanied by a dedicated guide, explore the satoyama’s seasonal varieties of nature and lifestyle. Discover original snow-country architecture, pure spring water streaming from beech forests, and centuries-old stone statues watching over the settlements. With each step, you’ll encounter the wisdom of those who lived in harmony with heavy winter weather and land stewardship practices. There may even be buttonholes of chance—meeting people tending to their fields, sharing conversation, or receiving a friendly wave, making your journey all the richer.

3, Echoes of a Changing Reality
These breathtaking rice terraces and village scenes are preserved by generations of care. Yet many mountain communities now face labor and demographic challenges, threatening the continuity of traditional paddies. During the “water mirror” season, the landscapes draw many admirers—but this beauty also brings dilemmas for the local people. Our tour thoughtfully explores both the scenic wonder and the underlying realities facing rural Japan today, inviting you to enjoy—and to reflect.

Each course offers a unique way to experience “real Japan.” Whether you choose Hoshitōge, with its satoyama rice terrace vistas and ecological tapestry, or the Historical Section along Matsunoyama Kaidō, tracing the samurai path—both invite connection: with nature, with history, and with people.

Trekking in an area that looks like a painting of the “real” Japan; experiencing the rich history, culture and beautiful scenery of this area.

The terraced rice fields in the mountains of Japan are a symbol of its history and culture. The records from the past show how people in this area of heavy snow built stair-like rice fields; they also show how hard-working these people were.

Walking on the paths between the terraced rice fields, with deep forests and unmistakable cedar trees standing alongside, you encounter some of the most beautiful scenery in the country.

Through experiences including visiting local farmers, wild vegetable picking, rice planting/harvesting, cycling, paddling and snowshoeing, explore the history and the culture firsthand.

Outline

1, Serene Satoyama Landscape with Iconic Rice Terraces
In Tōkamachi, the traditional satoyama (village mountain) life centered around terraced rice paddies continues today. These paddies, cherished since an era when rice was society’s true measure of value, are a symbol of Japanese culture. They also perform essential ecological roles—flood control, water filtration, and serving as a habitat for diverse wildlife. Tōkamachi in Niigata Prefecture is known as one of Japan’s premier regions for terraced rice paddies, enchanting many visitors. In this heavy-snow area, the fields stand as testament to how earlier generations met fierce winters with resilient ingenuity.

2, Guided by Local Outdoor Experts
Satoyama is a meeting point of human life and wildlife. Local guides raised in snow-country villages bring their intimate knowledge of the delicate balance of nature to life. Along the way, you might spot signs of tanuki (raccoon dogs), badgers, serow, or bent cedar trees weighed down by snow. Climbing through lower mountains, you’ll see beech groves, intertwined vines like wisteria or akebi, and other fascinating flora. Pause to observe how people and nature intertwine in this vibrant, living landscape. You may even meet villagers working in the fields and have a warm, spontaneous interaction that deepens your journey.

3, Behind the scene of Beautiful Tanada
While the terraced paddies and satoyama views captivate many visitors, they are sustained only through intense, ongoing local effort. But aging farming communities now find it harder than ever to maintain them. Paradoxically, crowded with visitors during the ‘water mirror’ season (spring to early summer), the scenery delights yet also causes mixed feelings among residents. This tour doesn’t shy away from these realities. As you admire the view, you’ll also gain insight into Japan’s present-day challenges—and leave with a moment to reflect on how these landscapes might be preserved for the future.

Each course offers a unique way to experience “real Japan.” Whether you choose Hoshitōge, with its satoyama rice terrace vistas and ecological tapestry, or the Historical Section along Matsunoyama Kaidō, tracing the samurai path—both invite connection: with nature, with history, and with people.

Trekking in an area that looks like a painting of the “real” Japan; experiencing the rich history, culture and beautiful scenery of this area.

The terraced rice fields in the mountains of Japan are a symbol of its history and culture. The records from the past show how people in this area of heavy snow built stair-like rice fields; they also show how hard-working these people were.

Walking on the paths between the terraced rice fields, with deep forests and unmistakable cedar trees standing alongside, you encounter some of the most beautiful scenery in the country.

Experience history and culture first-hand through experiences such as cooking and crafts while interacting with local people. (Depending on the season/availability.)

Outstanding local cuisine, and unforgettably warm hospitality await our guests.

Outline

1. The old samurai road

The trekking route from village to village runs along portions of the Uesugi Gundo (military road), also known as the Kodo Matsunoyama Kaido (the old Matsunoyama Road), that runs from Joetsu City to Tokamachi.

Walking along these trails, you feel the history: the peasants who worked and lived here, the merchants carrying goods, the trails that were the roads, often to battle, for the local warlord’s troops.

Also, you will see the most beautiful and historic rice terraces in all of Japan.

2. Experienced, dedicated guides

This is a private tour, with a dedicated, local guide who can lead guests along the trails with explanations in English. Only on this tour will you be led to places that ordinary visitors could not access.

3. Sophisticated accommodations

Local accommodations are available for one to multiple nights. These high-end lodgings include sophisticated onsen (hot spring inns), and a holiday house tucked between the fields that provides an outstanding chance to interact with locals.

*Our basic plan is 3 days 2 nights, but you can arrange other itineraries according to your request.

4. Local cuisine

Fine dining is a key point of the tour, with gourmet meals featuring unique and delicious local specialties and the best ingredients of the season and the region.

5. Cultural programs

Apart from the trekking, a variety of other programs are available to experience the life and culture of the people living in this mountainous rural area. For example, 

The Tokamachi/Uonuma area of Niigata Prefecture is a snowy region, with several meters of snow in the winter. Immerse yourself into the beauty of authentic “snow country” life through this tour!

1. Snowshoe through the beautiful scenery created bythe snow-covered terraced rice fields. Also enjoy a special tea time on the snow.
2. Dinner with ‘local moms’ to cook traditional dishes and spend an enjoyable evening socializing.
3. Stay in a renovated traditional house all to yourselves.
4. Visit the Tunnel of Light (Kiyotsu Gorge), a must-seeartwork of the Echigo-Tsumari Art Triennale.

In this experience, you will walk through the snow-covered terraced rice paddies wearing “kanjiki”, traditional snowshoes.

The beautiful terraced rice paddies have been cultivated and passed down from generation to generation since ancient times. In Tokamachi, the rural lifestyle centered on terraced rice paddies is still alive and well. Wearing traditional kanjiki, you will be reminded of the traditional winter life.

Under the guidance of a guide, put on your kanjiki and walk on the snow, becoming a part of such a landscape. The view of the terraced rice paddies in winter, covered with pure white snow, is truly spectacular!

After walking for a while, you will have a special tea time on the snow. Enjoy warm local natural herbal tea and sweets.

Experience the winter pleasures that only a snow country can offer.

This walking tour takes you from the Gimyo rice terraces to the Kamo rice terraces throughout the villages.

You can visit two of the most popular terraced rice paddies scattered around Tokamachi City.
Take a look at life in a ‘satoyama’ (a place where nature and human life intersect) as you walk through the villages and satoyama with a guide.

The approximately 1.5-hour course is mostly on paved paths, making it easy to walk, and anyone can participate, regardless of age.

The landscape of the satoyama with its terraced rice paddies, a symbol of Japanese culture.

Beautiful terraced rice paddies have been cultivated and passed down from generation to generation since ancient times. In Tokamachi, the satoyama lifestyle centred on terraced rice paddies is still alive today.

Tokamachi City in Niigata Prefecture is dotted with beautiful terraced rice paddies, of which the Gimyo Rice Terraces and Kamo no tanada

This tour takes you around the must-see sightseeing spots in Tokamachi, Niigata by a chartered taxi.
The itinerary is decided in advance, so all you have to do on the day of the tour is to get in the car at the meeting point. There is no need to go through troublesome procedures or communication in Japanese.

You can choose the pick-up and drop-off locations within Tokamachi City and surrounding areas, such as Echigo-Yuzawa Station. Please let us know your preference at the time of application. (Fees are subject to change depending on the route.)

Please contact us if you need an English speaking guide. (Fees will be quoted separately.)

[Limited tour through November 10, 2024]

Immerse yourself in art and local culture with this special tour during the Echigo-Tsumari Art Triennale.

This tour takes you around the locations of your choice in Tokamachi, Niigata by a chartered taxi.
The itinerary is decided in advance, so all you have to do on the day of the tour is to get in the car at the meeting point. There is no need to go through troublesome procedures or communication in Japanese.

Just let us know where you want to visit and we will suggest the best itinerary for you. You also can choose the pick-up and drop-off locations within Tokamachi City and surrounding areas, such as Echigo-Yuzawa Station. Please let us know your preference at the time of application. (Fees are subject to change depending on the route.)

Please contact us if you need an English speaking guide. (Fees will be quoted separately.)

Click here for other themes: [Day Trip] Private Taxi Tour -Spectacular Scenery and Art-

This tour offers a unique experience where you can make original placemats or a scarf using a traditional loom or weaving machine.

Tokamachi City in Niigata Prefecture is a known kimono town.
Weaving has been popular since the ancient times and it is still famous as a production center for high-class textiles. In the past, weaving was a part of life for the local people, especially during the snow covered winter months when women from the village gathered to spin and weave.

Let’s experience weaving in Tokamachi under the guidance of local textile craftsmen!
In this experience, we will use hand-woven loom that is easy to handle, a fine thread for the warp and a finely torn cloth for the weft.
Choose your favorite from the colorful threads and design your own color scheme!
How about making an original handwoven craft to remember your trip?

Let’s go see the terraced rice fields covered with a sea of clouds, a spectacular view that can only be seen at the specific times of year!

1. Come with our local guide to seek for fantastic views of terraced rice fields covered by a sea of clouds! Also have
   breakfast outdoors while enjoying the view.
2. Experience the traditional craft of chinkoro making.
3. Stay in a renovated traditional house all to yourselves.
4. Visit the Tunnel of Light (Kiyotsu Gorge), a must-see artwork of the Echigo-Tsumari Art Triennale.

Learn to cook traditional local dishes through the guidance of local moms!

Tokamachi and Uonuma in Niigata Prefecture are regarded as areas with heavy snowfall. Before the use of snow removal equipment and systems, the city is covered in snow and closed for nearly five months in a year. One of the distinct food culture of this region is the various effort to preserve the bounty of the mountains gathered from spring to autumn and stored as salted, dried and fermented, in order to survive the long winter when there is no harvest.

Moreover, the land is surrounded by the Shinano river (the longest river in Japan) and the mountains have abundant water and people had been receiving blessings from nature such as edible wild plants, nuts and fish every season since the Jomon period. The abundant water and the temperature difference during the seasons make this area suitable for rice production hence, the lands have been actively cultivated with rice and vegetables.

Many families who live here use the land near where they live to grow vegetables. Most of the time, their harvests are more than enough for them to consume!

Nowadays, most ingredients are available anywhere in Japan at any time but the ingredients used in this cooking session are seasonal ingredients such as freshly picked vegetables and edible wild plants, flavored with local seasonings and cooked in traditional methods that make it a special feast to be enjoyed in this area only and at a specific period.

Learn how to make Sasadango from local masters!

This tour is an experience program to learn how to make “Sasadango” Niigata Prefecture’s most beloved traditional food.

“Dango” are traditional sweet rice dumplings while “sasa” refers to broadleaf bamboo leaves. Therefore, “Sasadango” are sweet rice dumplings wrapped in broadleaf bamboo leaves.

Learn how to make Sasadango from local masters and take the freshly steamed sweets you made! No doubt, adults and kids alike will enjoy this experience.

What is “Sasadango”?

Sasadango – rice dumplings with sweet bean paste and wrapped in fragrant bamboo leaves, are said to have been developed in the Sengoku period (15-16th centuries) as a preserved food and thought to have been invented by the famous Echigo (Niigata) warlord, Kenshin Uesugi. These dumplings are wrapped in bamboo leaves as it has excellent antibacterial properties.
At that time, it seems that simmered bean paste which was a daily staple, has been used instead of the sweet bean paste as it is now.
Sasadango has been popular for a long time but now there are only a few people who make it and eating homemade Sasadango fresh out of the steam pan is a very valuable experience.

Taste the freshly steamed Sasadango you made!

In this tour, local masters will teach you how to make Sasadango from how to knead the dumplings, to wrapping in the red bean paste beautifully and finally, wrapping the dumplings with bamboo leaves and tying with a string called “igusa”. It’s truly a wonderful experience children and adults can enjoy.

This homemade steamed Sasadango will have a slightly different taste than the ones brought at the store!

Sasadango can be kept for a short period of time due to the antibacterial property of the bamboo grass, making them ideal as items to bring home after a trip to Niigata Prefecture.
So, how about joining a homemade Sasadango making class while here to enjoy this traditional local sweet?

Have a go at “Chinkoro” making. A traditional craft that is passed down generations in Tokamachi.

What is “Chinkoro”?

“Chinkoro” is a famous traditional art form originating from Tokamachi. “Chinkoro” is the local term for “puppy”, and is a doll of a puppy made from rice flour.
It is made during the New Year celebrations, and if it cracks apart it is believed to bring good luck!

Try making your own “Chinkoro”!

In this program, you will make Chinkoro while being taught by local masters. Instead of sticking to traditional puppies and zodiac signs, you can make your own original dolls such as anime characters, mascots, and animals. It is an experience that anyone, regardless of age or gender, can enjoy. Perfect for a one and only souvenir.

This is a tour to experience making traditional sandals.

Cultivation of rice has been popular in Niigata Prefecture for a long time so various craftwork using straw as material is very common. Until seventy to eighty years ago, during the winter period, each family had been making income by making sandals or other items made out of rice straw.

Nowadays though, it is rare to see crafts made from straw and there are only a few people who makes them, so this craftwork have become very valuable. Craftwork experiences like making these straw sandals have become rare and looking at this handiwork as it is weaved little by little is like looking at a masterpiece.

In this experience, you will make straw sandals with the local craftsmen in the area. You will have an option to make sandals using rice straw or colorful cloths as materials. Please indicate your choice of material when you book the tour.
You will have a choice of cloth design and color for the slipper strap and sandal so you can create your own unique craft!

The finished sandal can be worn when you go to the beach or river during the summer or can also be used as a home slipper or as an interior décor. How about making an original sandal to remember your trip?