Sakae Village, Shimominochi District, lies on the border with Niigata Prefecture. The village receives so much snow in the winter that it has been designated a special heavy snow area. The village borders Iiyama City, Yamanouchi Town, Tsunan Town in Niigata Prefecture, and Yuzawa Town. The Chikuma River, which flows through the village, changes its name to the Shinano River as it enters Niigata Prefecture. The village's tree is the Paulownia, its flower is the Dogtooth Violet, and its bird is the Common Roller. A tourist attraction in the area is Akiyamago, which is listed as one of Japan's 100 most scenic spots. Historic sites include Jokein Temple, Sendo Castle, Shirozaka Castle, and Uchiikekan. There are also many hot springs, including Yashiki Onsen, Wayama Onsen, and Koakazawa Onsen. Sakae Village, Shimominochi District, is famous for its cat cradles, a type of pet house woven from straw.