Discover the Heart of Okumikawa: A Culinary and Cultural Journey
Nestled along National Route 257, Horaimikawamiitsu is a roadside station that captures the essence of eastern Aichi Prefecture’s rich heritage. Located at the gateway to the Okumikawa National Park, this vibrant stop sits just steps from the renowned Shōkō-ji Temple garden and the historic Kakiimoto Castle Ruins, offering visitors a seamless blend of nature, history, and local flavor.
What sets Horaimikawamiitsu apart is its celebration of regional specialties—most notably the beloved Mitsuke Gohan, a sweet, mochi-like rice cake drizzled with walnut sauce, and a range of plum-based treats including plum udon, plum jam, and refreshing plum juice. With seasonal fruits, handmade crafts, and a cozy café, it’s a true hub for food lovers and culture seekers alike.
Why Visit
At Horaimikawamiitsu roadside station, discover the region’s only authentic mikan (satsuma orange) and plum kombu ramen—a savory, umami-rich noodle dish crafted with locally grown citrus and fermented plum. Just steps from the station, the serene garden of Mankō-ji Temple offers a rare glimpse into a centuries-old landscape preserved within the heart of Aichi’s Ogimikawa National Park. This is not just a stop—it’s a journey into the flavors and history of a hidden corner of Japan.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor authentic local flavors at Horaimikawamiitsu, where seasonal dishes like plum udon and lemonade highlight regional ingredients.
Mai Udon & Plum Juice
梅うどん・梅あめ・梅ジャム・梅干しなど
Specialty
Plum-based dishes and drinks
A specialty restaurant offering plum-themed cuisine, including traditional udon and soba noodles made with local plums, served in a serene atmosphere with views of the surrounding garden.
Three Stone Gohan
三石五平餅
Specialty
Traditional rice cake with walnut sauce
A popular food stall offering a unique local snack—sweet rice cakes with a rich walnut sauce, served in a round, mochi-like shape.
Three Stone Set Meal
三石定食
Specialty
Seasonal set meal with local specialties
A daily limited set meal featuring the famous Three Stone Gohan, seasonal tempura, handmade sweets, and seasonal side dishes, offering a complete taste of local cuisine.
Lemonade
レモネード
Specialty
Freshly made lemonade from local lemons
A refreshing drink stand offering homemade lemonade made from fresh lemons grown in the region, perfect for a summer day.
Shopping Highlights
Discover unique local crafts and fresh produce at Horaimikawamiitsu, offering a true taste of Aichi’s countryside charm.
Local Specialty Market
地元ならではのお土産
A retail shop offering a wide range of local souvenirs and regional products from the Okumikawa area.
Products
Must-Try Item
Large Fudama
Plum & Fruit Specialty Store
梅とじうどん・そば
A shop specializing in plum-based products and seasonal fruits from the region.
Products
Must-Try Item
Plum Juice
Traditional Craft & Incense Shop
シキミ線香
A shop selling traditional crafts and high-quality incense made from local Shikimi trees.
Products
Must-Try Item
Shikimi Incense
Local Food & Produce Market
産直野菜等
A market selling fresh, locally grown vegetables and seasonal produce directly from local farmers.
Products
Must-Try Item
Local Vegetables
Featured Products
Explore signature specialties such as plum jam, plum candy, and the famous truffle-shaped Mochi Mochi Five-Flat Cake.
Plum Juice
梅ジュース
A refreshing, homemade juice made from locally grown plums, known for its natural sweetness and health benefits.
Plum Jam
梅ジャム
Handcrafted jam made from ripe, locally harvested plums, perfect for spreading on bread or using in desserts.
Plum Pickles
梅干し
Traditional pickled plums with a balanced sweet and sour flavor, known for their digestive benefits and long shelf life.
Large Fudama
ふだま
A large, mineral-rich wheat gluten snack known for its unique texture and health benefits, especially for diet and skin care.
Shikimi Incense
シキミ線香
Premium incense made from the aromatic Shikimi tree, known for its calming scent and traditional craftsmanship.
Lemonade
レモネード
Freshly made lemonade using lemons grown in the New City region, offering a vibrant, citrusy taste.
Local Vegetables
産直野菜
Fresh, seasonal vegetables sourced directly from local farms, known for their quality and natural flavor.
Facilities & Amenities
Relax with comfortable amenities including spacious restrooms, EV charging, and shaded seating areas at Horaimikawamiitsu.
Parking Lot
The roadside station has a parking capacity for 43 vehicles, including space for 2 large vehicles and 26 regular vehicles.
On-site
Restrooms
The station provides 6 male toilets, 5 female toilets, and one accessible toilet for people with disabilities.
On-site
Free Wi-Fi
Free public Wi-Fi is available at the roadside station for visitors.
On-site
Information Center
An information corner is available where visitors can obtain local tourism information and guidance.
On-site
Play Area
The station features a free rest area where visitors can relax and enjoy the surroundings.
On-site
Nursing Room
A dedicated nursing room is available for mothers with infants.
On-site
EV Charging Station
An electric vehicle charging facility is available at the roadside station.
On-site
Insider Tips
Visit on weekdays for limited-time meals and avoid peak hours to enjoy quiet moments in the nearby garden.
- Best Arrival Time: Visit between 10:00 AM and 11:00 AM on weekdays to secure the limited daily supply of the Sankishi Gohan-pan (three-stone flat rice cake), which sells out quickly and is only available during regular business hours.
- Hidden Gems: Ask at the deli counter for the Sankishi Gohan-pan served with a side of pickled plum (umeboshi), a seasonal pairing not listed on the main menu but available upon request.
- Weekend Special: On weekends, visit the outdoor seating area by 11:30 AM to reserve a table before the Sankishi Gohan-pan and plum udon are fully sold out—these items are only available until 1:00 PM.
- Best Buy for Local Produce: Purchase the Sankishi Gohan-pan directly from the front counter before 12:00 PM, as it is only available in limited quantities and is not restocked after noon.
- Must-Try Drink: Order the lemonade made from Nagoya city-grown lemons at the café counter before 1:00 PM—it is only served during the summer months and is not available year-round.
- Nearby Attraction Access: Walk to Mankō-ji Temple (a 1-minute stroll from the roadside station) before 4:00 PM to view the garden at its best light, as the temple closes at 5:00 PM and the garden is closed after sunset.
- Avoid the Queue: Skip the main food counter by ordering the plum udon or plum juice directly from the beverage and snack bar located near the entrance—this area often has shorter wait times than the main dining counter.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March–May): Enjoy fresh seasonal produce and the fragrant blooms of the surrounding garden at Horaimikawamiitsu.
Summer (June–August): Savor cooling homemade lemonade and梅juice made from local fruits.
Autumn (September–November): Experience the peak of plum harvest and seasonal plum-based products.
Winter (December–February): Visit during the off-season for peaceful exploration and warm local specialties.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Offers a children's play area, stroller-friendly paths, and restrooms with accessibility features. Features kid-friendly food like梅ジュース and fun-shaped snacks. Educational elements include nearby historical sites and interactive local product displays.
Food Lover Review
Provides diverse local cuisine including梅うどん, 梅あめ, and the popular 三石五平餅. Offers fresh produce from local farmers and unique regional products like梅ジュース and レモネード. Quality of ingredients and authentic flavors enhance the overall food experience.
Car Camping Review
Has ample parking for 43 vehicles and multiple restrooms including accessible ones. Quiet surroundings and a peaceful garden setting support overnight stays. No explicit overnight parking policy, limiting full car camping use.
Scenic Beauty Review
Located near the scenic 満光寺 garden and 鳳来寺山, offering serene natural views. Features beautiful seasonal landscapes with well-maintained paths and photogenic spots. The tranquil atmosphere enhances aesthetic appeal and overall visual experience.