If you love anime and you’re near Tokyo, Gyoda rice paddy art in Japan is something you shouldn’t miss. What looks like a massive mural from afar is actually a carefully planted field—an ever-changing masterpiece made entirely of rice.
Every year, the city of Gyoda in Saitama Prefecture turns its ordinary rice fields into living works of art. And not just any art—anime-level scenes that look like they were lifted straight out of a studio.
This year, the featured design is from the hit anime Demon Slayer “Tanjiro”, created entirely with different colored rice plants. It’s a surreal blend of farming, pop culture, and precision design.
Location:
Gyoda is an easy side trip from Tokyo, if you’re traveling by train or car.
Travel via train
From Tokyo Station, take the JR Ueno-Tokyo Line via Takasaki and get off at Gyoda Station. From there, hop on the city loop bus and get off at Kodai Hasu no Sato. The ride from the station takes about 25 minutes.
Summary:
JR Ueno-Tokyo Line via Takasaki > Gyoda Station > City Loop Bus > Kodai Hasu no Sato
Travel via car
If you’re driving, the site is about an hour away from Tokyo and has plenty of free parking available near the observation tower.
Arriving at the Kodai Hasu no Sato
Once you arrive at Kodai Hasu no Sato, the first thing you’ll notice is the 60-meter-high observatory tower. It stands tall above the fields, offering a bird’s-eye view of the entire rice art.
Entry to the observatory is 400 yen, which is very reasonable considering the effort that goes into this seasonal display. Depending on the crowd, you might wait around 30 minutes for your turn to go up, but the waiting area is comfortable and air-conditioned. While we waited, we sipped some green tea and browsed Demon Slayer displays in the lobby—it felt more like a pop-up anime museum than a rural farm facility.
The View from Above: Rice Field Meets Anime
Once inside the elevator and up the tower, the full scale of the rice paddy art reveals itself. It’s a jaw-dropping moment.
There’s no paint, no digital screens, just carefully grown rice plants forming a massive illustration. You can see Tanjiro and other familiar characters come to life, stretching across the entire field.
The artistry is made possible thanks to a team of farmers and designers who map and plant the field with incredible accuracy. It’s a perfect blend of agriculture, anime fandom, and traditional Japanese community effort.
Just below the tower is a historic lotus pond, adding a calm, almost spiritual atmosphere to the visit. The contrast of ancient nature and modern pop culture makes the experience even more memorable.
Final Thoughts: Why You Should Visit Gyoda Rice Paddy Art in Japan
Whether you’re an anime lover, a photography enthusiast, or just looking for a unique weekend getaway near Tokyo, Gyoda rice paddy art in Japan offers a one-of-a-kind experience.
It’s only available during the growing season—typically mid-June to early October—so plan your visit accordingly.
This isn’t just sightseeing; it’s a celebration of creativity, tradition, and community. Definitely worth the trip
Want to rent a car in Tokyo?
Check car rental options and prices in klook.
| Car Type | Daily Rate (Yen) | 2-Day Estimate (Yen) |
|---|---|---|
| Sub-compact (kei, Prius C) | 8,000–9,000 | 16,000–18,000 |
| Compact (Fit, Corolla) | 10,000–14,000 | 20,000–28,000 |
| Mid-size & Above | 12,000–19,000+ | 24,000–38,000+ |
