Discover the Heart of Akita’s Rural Heritage
Tucked into the serene landscape of Akita Prefecture, Misato roadside station stands as a gateway to history, nature, and local flavor. Located along the scenic route between the Omono and Hachimantai regions, it offers travelers a peaceful retreat surrounded by lush forests and rolling farmland. More than just a place to refuel, Misato is a living tribute to the region’s past, anchored by its connection to the legendary "Kakusen no Ran" — the Battle of the Three Years — where samurai once clashed beneath the shadow of Mount Hachimantai.
At Misato, visitors experience authentic Akita craftsmanship and agriculture firsthand. The station features a vibrant market showcasing locally grown produce, artisanal dairy, and seasonal specialties, all sourced directly from nearby farms. With thoughtful design and warm hospitality, Misato invites travelers to slow down, savor the moment, and connect with the soul of rural Japan.
Why Visit
Misato roadside station stands at the heart of the historic battlefield of the 12th-century "Gankyō no Ran" (雁行の乱れ), where visitors can walk the same paths where warriors once clashed. The station’s highlight is its exclusive Yamato Sake, brewed from local rice and water sourced from the ancient Shōkō Spring—only available here. Nearby, artisans craft hand-pulled Misato soba using heirloom grains, served with a dipping sauce made from regional wild herbs, a tradition preserved for over 200 years.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor local flavors at Misato roadside station, where fresh, farm-to-table ingredients meet traditional recipes.
Misato Local Cuisine Restaurant
美郷地元料理
Specialty
Traditional regional dishes from Misato
A cozy dining space offering authentic local cuisine from Misato, featuring seasonal ingredients and traditional cooking methods. The atmosphere is warm and rustic, reflecting the area's agricultural heritage.
Farmers' Market Café
農産物市場カフェ
Specialty
Fresh local produce-based light meals
A casual café located within the farmers' market area, serving light meals and drinks made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The space is bright and open, with a focus on sustainability and community.
Misato Specialty Food Stall
美郷特産フードスタンド
Specialty
Quick bites and local snacks
A lively food stall offering quick, delicious snacks made with regional ingredients. Perfect for on-the-go visitors looking for a taste of Misato’s local flavors.
Shopping Highlights
Discover unique regional crafts and seasonal goods at Misato roadside station’s vibrant market stalls.
Local Farmers Market
地元農産物市場
A marketplace where local farmers sell fresh produce directly to visitors. Offers seasonal fruits, vegetables, and herbs grown in the Misato region.
Products
Must-Try Item
Freshly harvested mountain vegetables
Misato Craft & Souvenir Shop
美郷工芸・お土産店
A shop specializing in handmade crafts and souvenirs from Misato, including pottery, woven goods, and local art.
Products
Must-Try Item
Handcrafted ceramic bowl with regional design
Local Dairy & Meat Shop
地元乳製品・肉店
A specialty shop offering high-quality local meat and dairy products, including beef, pork, and artisan cheese.
Products
Must-Try Item
Misato-style aged beef
Misato Alcohol & Beverage Store
美郷酒類・飲料販売店
A shop dedicated to local alcoholic beverages and drinks, including sake, rice wine, and traditional herbal infusions.
Products
Must-Try Item
Misato traditional rice wine
Featured Products
Taste the essence of the region with Misato’s signature specialties, crafted from local heritage and natural bounty.
Misato Mountain Vegetable Mix
美郷山菜ミックス
A premium blend of wild mountain vegetables harvested in the Misato region, dried and ready to cook.
Local Soy Sauce
地元しょうゆ
Traditional soy sauce made using local soybeans and fermentation methods passed down through generations.
Misato Pickled Vegetable Jar
美郷漬物詰め合わせ
A variety pack of traditional pickled vegetables from Misato, made using time-honored techniques.
Artisan Cheese from Misato
美郷手作りチーズ
Small-batch artisan cheese made from local milk, aged to perfection with a rich, creamy texture.
Misato Sake Set
美郷日本酒セット
A curated selection of local sake varieties, perfect for tasting or gifting.
Insider Tips
Visit early to explore hidden gems and connect with local producers at Misato roadside station.
- Best Arrival Time: Visit between 9:30 AM and 10:30 AM on weekdays to catch the daily fresh batch of milk bread from the on-site bakery, which is only available until 11:00 AM and often sells out by noon
- Hidden Gems: Ask at the deli counter for the seasonal "Kamakura-style pickled vegetables" — they are made daily using local cucumbers and are only available during summer months
- Weekend Special: On Saturdays and Sundays, the food truck "Kurokami Tofu" sets up near the parking area from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM, serving handmade tofu with miso-based dipping sauce made from regional soybeans
- Local Product Must-Try: Purchase the "Misato Mountain Herb Salt" at the souvenir counter — it is crafted from wild herbs gathered in the surrounding hills and is only restocked every other Friday
- Best Photo Spot: Position yourself at the stone monument near the entrance gate during golden hour (around 4:30 PM) to capture the full view of the historical battlefield site with the red maple trees in the background
- Dining Tip: Eat at the outdoor picnic tables near the vegetable garden — they are reserved for visitors who purchase a meal from the in-house "Farm-to-Table Bento" counter, which opens at 12:00 PM daily
- Timing for Craft Workshops: Sign up in advance for the "Handmade Paper Making" session, held every Friday at 2:00 PM — it runs for 60 minutes and uses locally harvested mulberry bark pulp
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March–May): Canola flowers bloom in late April, and fresh bamboo shoots are available at the roadside station in early spring.
Summer (June–August): Locally grown melons and tomatoes reach peak season in July and August.
Autumn (September–November): Chestnuts and persimmons are harvested and sold from late September through October.
Winter (December–February): Hot roasted chestnuts and seasonal dumplings are available during the winter months.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Offers play areas, child-friendly food, stroller access, and educational history exhibits on the Battle of Go-Sannen.
Food Lover Review
Features diverse local cuisine, fresh regional produce, and artisanal food products from local farmers.
Car Camping Review
Provides restrooms and vending machines, but lacks clear overnight parking rules and quiet zones.
Scenic Beauty Review
Boasts scenic views, photo-worthy historical sites, seasonal landscapes, and a peaceful rural atmosphere.