Arida

A small coastal town in Wakayama, Arida is famous for its succulent mikan oranges and its natural beauty; however in the past, its rugged coastline and mountainous terrain left little land for arable farming, so many residents were forced to emigrate abroad for jobs and a different way of life.

Visitors to Arida will enjoy its moderate climate and lovely Hirokawa Beach. There are also natural tourist attractions to visit and photograph such as the Terraced Rice Fields in Shimizu, the lovely Cosmos Park on Mt. Washigamine, the bright red Zaobashi bridge, and the stunning Oishi Kogan Plateau.  

Local Attractions:

Mikan Orchards

Arida has ideal growing conditions with lots of sun, light rain, mineral rich soil and moderate temperatures. Because of this ideal environment, Arida is famous for its mandarin oranges which have been cultivated for almost 450 years on the terraced slopes of the town. Deep orange in colour, they are sweet and juicy and easy to peel. Orange desserts, puddings, marmalades, sauces, candies and liqueur are all sold in Arida.

Terraced Rice Fields 

The Terraced Rice Fields of Shimizu in Arida were formed during the Edo period and are still cultivated today by the surrounding farms. As the four seasons rotate, the landscape changes in colour and impact offering stunning vistas from the mirrored reflection of the flooded rice paddies in the spring, to the verdant green of summer and the golden harvested fields of Autumn. 

Every year on the evening of September 6th, the rice fields twinkle with thousands of LED lights.

There are stunning bike rides throughout this rural area. Bike rentals are available in the town of Arida near the train station.

Washiga Cosmos Park

During September and October, over a million cosmos flowers bloom at the peak of Mt. Washigamine. If you visit on a clear day, views of neighboring Awaji Island and distant Shikoku Island can be seen.  

Zaobashi

In the middle of the rural countryside of Arida-gawacho city is the photogenic Zaobashi, a suspension bridge that seems to float over the Aridagawa River. Painted vermillion, the bridge is a stunning contrast against the glowing greenery of the forest making it a beautiful photo opportunity!

Oishi Kogan Plateau

The Oishi Kogan plateau is most famous for the Susuki pampas grass that blooms in the Fall. During this time the plateau is blanketed in muted silver. Different times of the year feature other seasonal plants.  At 870 metres above sea level, the plateau has panoramic views and is a lovely for hiking.

This area is best reached by car.

Hirokawa Beach

This stunning region along the Nishihiro Coast has sandy beaches that run for miles and shallow swimming areas that are suitable for families with young children. There are facilities nearby with showers, lockers and toilets.