Discover the Heart of Rural Japan at Nishime Roadside Station
Nestled in the scenic embrace of the Dewa Mountains and overlooking the sparkling Japan Sea, Nishime Roadside Station is a vibrant gateway to the natural beauty and local culture of Yuzawa City. More than just a rest stop, it’s a community hub where visitors connect with authentic regional crafts, seasonal produce, and rotating art exhibitions.
With a bustling farmers’ market, a welcoming gift shop featuring local specialties, and a family-friendly playground, it’s the perfect place to pause, recharge, and savor the flavors of the region. Don’t miss the annual events and seasonal celebrations, including the beloved "Sea and Mountain Delights Spring Festival" and special art shows marking its 30th anniversary.
Why Visit
Visit Nishime roadside station to experience the only seasonal "Sea of Delight" early spring festival featuring locally harvested, velvety soft wakame from the Japan Sea coast. Explore the decade-old handmade gallery showcasing rotating regional art exhibitions, including the annual "Shutadan Akita" photography display and special commemorative shows.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor fresh, local flavors at Nishime roadside station, where seasonal ingredients meet rustic charm.
Smile Cafe
笑・カㇷエ
Specialty
Cozy café offering local flavors with a warm atmosphere
A welcoming café located within the roadside station, known for its friendly service and relaxed environment. It serves a variety of light meals and beverages, perfect for travelers seeking a comfortable break.
Shopping Highlights
Discover a curated selection of regional treasures and authentic souvenirs at Nishime roadside station.
Local Products Store
物産館
A compact store offering a wide variety of local products and souvenirs from Yuzuyama City, including seasonal specialties and regional crafts.
Products
Must-Try Item
Fresh Wakame from Nishime
Direct Sales Store
道の駅直売所
A direct sales store operated by the roadside station, offering fresh, seasonal, and affordable local produce.
Products
Must-Try Item
Fresh Wakame
Handmade Gallery
道の駅ギャラリー
An art gallery located on the second floor, showcasing rotating exhibitions of photography and paintings by local artists.
Products
Must-Try Item
Watercolor paintings by Katsuo Kariya
Featured Products
Explore signature specialties like tender wakame and local delicacies crafted from the land and sea.
Fresh Wakame
ワカメ
Fresh, locally harvested wakame from the waters of the Sea of Japan, known for its crisp texture and rich umami flavor.
Wakame Pickled in Vinegar
酢漬けワカメ
Wakame preserved in a light vinegar solution, ideal as a side dish or snack with rice.
Local Rice
地元米
High-quality rice grown in the Nishime region, known for its soft texture and delicate taste.
Sea of Japan Sea Salt
日本海の塩
Hand-harvested sea salt from the Sea of Japan, rich in minerals and ideal for cooking and seasoning.
Facilities & Amenities
Relax and recharge with family-friendly spaces, rest areas, and convenient services at Nishime roadside station.
Information Center
The roadside station serves as a hub for regional culture, history, tourism, and local products. It provides information and acts as a meeting point between the community and visitors.
Main entrance of the roadside station
Restroom
Restrooms are available for visitors' convenience.
Inside the roadside station
Parking
Parking facilities are available for drivers to rest and park their vehicles.
Near the main entrance
Play Area
A small park designed for families with children, featuring swings, a jungle gym, a slide, and a sheltered rest area for relaxation.
Adjacent to the roadside station entrance
Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi is available for visitors to use during their stay.
Throughout the roadside station premises
ATM
An ATM is available for visitors to withdraw cash.
Near the main entrance
EV Charging Station
Electric vehicle charging facilities are available for drivers of electric vehicles.
Near the parking area
Nursing Room
A private room for mothers to breastfeed or care for infants.
Inside the roadside station
Pet Area
A designated area for pets, allowing visitors to bring their animals along.
Near the entrance and play area
Online Store
The roadside station offers shipping services for souvenirs and local products purchased on-site.
At the souvenir shop
Art Gallery
A handmade gallery located on the second floor, open year-round. It hosts monthly exhibitions, primarily featuring photography, and celebrates its 10th anniversary this year with special events.
Second floor of the roadside station
Local Products Store
A compact store offering a wide variety of local products and souvenirs from Akita Prefecture. The store also provides shipping services for purchases.
Inside the roadside station
Insider Tips
Plan your visit during seasonal festivals or art shows for a deeper connection to local life at Nishime roadside station.
- Best Arrival Time: Visit between 9:00 AM and 9:30 AM to secure the first selection of seasonal produce from the roadside station’s direct sales shop, as popular items like fresh mountain vegetables and early-season wasabi often sell out by 11:00 AM.
- Hidden Gems: Head to the second-floor gallery before 3:00 PM to view the current exhibition of watercolor paintings by Katsuhiro Kogawa, displayed in the rotating showcase space that hosts monthly art events.
- Weekend Special: On weekends, check the bulletin board near the entrance for announcements about the seasonal “Sea and Mountain Delight” event, where local fishermen and farmers showcase fresh catches and harvests, typically available from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM.
- Best Purchase Time: Buy the limited-edition Wako-style sea vegetable paste (海の幸早春まつり) on the first Tuesday of each month, as it is only available during the early spring event and is restocked monthly.
- Actionable Tip for Families: Use the children’s play area with swings and slides before 1:00 PM to avoid peak afternoon crowds; the space is especially quiet during weekday mornings.
- Insider Product Tip: Purchase the “Nishime Special Blend” dried fish snack at the souvenir shop between 2:00 PM and 3:00 PM, when staff often offer a free sample and can recommend pairings with local sake.
- Event Timing: Visit the gallery on the second Saturday of each month to attend the free public art talk hosted by the exhibition curator, which begins promptly at 1:30 PM and includes behind-the-scenes insights on current works.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March-May): Late March brings the "Sea of Flowers" with blooming canola fields, while fresh wakame from the sea is featured in the early spring festival.
Summer (June-August): The area's blueberries ripen in July and August, offering U-pick opportunities and fresh berry desserts at the café.
Autumn (September-November): The autumn gallery exhibition highlights local art, coinciding with the annual 30th-anniversary event and seasonal harvest displays.
Winter (December-February): The Christmas party and winter bazaar offer festive shopping, while the gallery remains open year-round.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Offers play equipment, family park, and child-friendly rest areas with stroller access and safe layout.
Food Lover Review
Features fresh local produce, regional specialties, and diverse food options with quality and variety.
Car Camping Review
Provides parking and basic facilities; suitable for short stays, though overnight parking not confirmed.
Scenic Beauty Review
Boasts scenic views of the Japan Sea, Mount Gassan, and lush farmland with strong visual appeal.