Yesterday, we had discussed spider lilies 「彼岸花、ヒガンバナ」, and coincidentally, the Kumanichi posted an article today regarding an excellent viewing site in Yamaga. Japan is fond of this “Best 100” encompassing so many genre that you can be sure that, wherever you live, something near you will rank somewhere in some category. It turns out that Yamaga has terraced paddies ranking in the Best 100.
Specifically, it is a village of 131 people in 50 households called Bansyochiku 「番所地区、 ばんしょちく 」. I haven’t found the name etymology, but 「番 」refers to a feudal domain, so perhaps the village traces its roots to mountain samurai, those who mainly farmed but retained the equipment and skills to fight if the lord called (my wife’s paternal line were such), which would make sense, considering its location at the edge of the Higo fief. Apparently, the village has 200 terraces constructed during the Meiji era spread over 10 hectares. Peak viewing season is expected this weekend. More information can be found at the link. - William
