Iwakubi is a region celebrated for its stunning rice terraces. During the Edo period, rice held significant value and was even used as a form of currency. In order to cultivate rice on the steep land, the farmers constructed terraced fields using advanced surveying techniques developed in the gold mine.

The challenges faced by the farmers were immense. Due to the high elevation of the rice terraces, water leakage was a common issue. To address this, the farmers employed cows to drag stones to reinforce the ground. Additionally, they maintained water in the fields throughout the year, and even after the rice harvest, by not draining the water. This made rice planting exceptionally laborious, as it had to be done with the water still in the fields. Furthermore, in times of limited fertilizer supply, soil that had collapsed due to landslides was occasionally used as natural fertilizer.

The rice terraces in Iwakubi stand as a testament to the history of harmonious coexistence with nature. When admiring the breathtaking scenery, one should also consider the untold hardships endured by the farmers, which unveils a different perspective.