To predict the long-term behavior of trace metals in a soil profile, we studied the vertical distributions of barium, zinc, copper, chromium, nickel, cobalt, lead, and the principal metals, aluminum, iron and manganese, in three soils with developed horizons obtained from rural areas in Japan. Total element analysis and selective extraction tests with various reagents were conducted to clarify the extractability of the metals at each sampling depth. Soil-b (Dystric Cambisols) had the highest extractability of elements although the vertical distributions of its trace elements were similar to those of soil-d (Umbric Andosols), which had to lowest metal extractability of the three soils. Soil-KUR (Orthic Acrisols or Dystric Cambisols) was the oldest of the three soils and showed downward movement of some trace metals (chromium and nickel) and principal elements (Fe and Mn) that was probably induced by long-term weathering. The extractability of manganese, zinc and barium with water was higher than other metals examined in all three soils. Lead and cobalt in soil-b and soil-KUR also were considered to have high extractability under long-term weathering processes. Zinc and lead accumulated near soil surface showed higher extractability with every reagent used than those in deep layers of the three soils.