Discover the Heart of Akita’s Natural Beauty
Tucked along the scenic coastline of Akita Prefecture, Tenno roadside station stands as a vibrant gateway to the region’s rich culture and breathtaking landscapes. Nestled in the heart of Kogushi City, this expansive complex centers around the iconic Tenno Sky Tower, offering panoramic views of the Oga Peninsula, the Sea of Japan, and the serene Yagoroguchi Lake—especially unforgettable during sunset.
More than a rest stop, Tenno is a year-round destination featuring a bustling green market, a variety of local eateries including the popular Nappa Hauz, and the large-scale Kurara Spa, one of the largest public hot spring facilities in the prefecture. With seasonal events, outdoor barbecue areas, and scenic walking trails, it’s a perfect retreat for families and nature lovers alike.
Why Visit
At Tenno roadside station, the only place in the region where you can experience the panoramic views from the Sky Tower overlooking the Japan Sea, maleko Peninsula, and Yagura Lake—especially breathtaking during sunset—sets it apart. The station’s standout feature is its exclusive seasonal soft serve: a rich, house-made caramel ice cream crafted with locally sourced milk, available only from mid-March to late November. Complementing this, the on-site Green Market offers a rare chance to taste and purchase the region’s only artisanal tofu made with water from the local mountain springs, a staple in the area’s traditional cuisine.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor farm-fresh flavors at Tenno roadside station, where seasonal dishes and local favorites delight every palate.
Nappa House
なっぱ・はうす
Specialty
Seasonal lunch buffet with local ingredients
A popular restaurant offering a seasonal lunch buffet featuring fresh local ingredients. The atmosphere is warm and family-friendly, perfect for enjoying meals with loved ones.
Nappa Stand
なっぱスタンド
Specialty
Quick local snacks and street food
A casual food stall offering quick bites and local snacks. Ideal for a light meal or grab-and-go options while exploring the roadside station.
Katagami Yatai
かたがみ屋台
Specialty
Traditional street food with regional flavors
A vibrant food stall serving traditional street food with a regional twist. The lively atmosphere makes it a favorite among visitors seeking authentic local tastes.
Sobaya Hachibei
そば屋八兵衛
Specialty
Handmade soba noodles with local ingredients
A dedicated soba restaurant specializing in handmade soba noodles using locally sourced ingredients. The ambiance is rustic and inviting, ideal for a quiet meal.
Dream Shop Kurakake
ドリームショップくらかけ
Specialty
Local coffee and light refreshments
A cozy café offering locally roasted coffee and light refreshments. The setting is relaxed and welcoming, perfect for a break during your visit.
Shopping Highlights
Discover unique regional goods and handmade treasures at Tenno's vibrant marketplace and specialty shops.
Tenno Green Market
てんのうグリーンマーケット
A fresh produce market offering seasonal fruits, vegetables, and locally grown goods directly from farmers.
Products
Must-Try Item
Fresh seasonal vegetables
Dream Shop Kurakake
ドリームショップくらかけ
A general retail shop offering a variety of local goods, souvenirs, and everyday items.
Products
Must-Try Item
Local souvenirs
Featured Products
Explore signature treats like original sake-filled mochi, local tofu, and creamy soft serve crafted with care.
Original Sake Mochi
食菜館くららオリジナル酒饅頭
A unique sweet made with local sake and soft mochi, combining traditional Japanese flavors with a modern twist.
Processed Food (Tofu)
加工食品（豆腐等）
Locally produced processed food items, including fresh tofu made from regional soybeans.
Fresh Cream Soft Serve
生キャラメルソフトクリーム
A creamy soft serve made with fresh milk and a rich, balanced caramel flavor.
Vegetable Topped Ramen
野菜あんかけラーメン
A hearty ramen with a thick, savory vegetable-based sauce and fresh toppings.
Facilities & Amenities
Relax with spacious parking, accessible restrooms, Wi-Fi, and a full range of amenities for a seamless visit.
Parking Lot
The roadside station has a large parking area with 14 large vehicle spaces and 582 standard vehicle spaces (including 9 accessible spaces for people with disabilities).
Located at the base of the Tenno Sky Tower
Toilet
Toilets are available 24 hours a day.
Throughout the facility
Wireless LAN
Free wireless LAN is available at the roadside station.
Throughout the facility
Information Center
The roadside station features a tourist information center providing guidance and assistance to visitors.
Near the entrance and main facility
Play Area
The station includes a play area for children, located within the expansive grounds.
Within the facility grounds
Kurara Spa
A large public bath facility with both Japanese and Western-style hot spring baths. The facility features a manga corner and kids' corner. The baths are open from 9:00 to 21:00, with the facility closed on the second Monday of each month (or the next day if it falls on a holiday).
Adjacent to the Tenno Sky Tower
EV Charging Station
An electric vehicle charging station is available at the roadside station.
Near the parking area
ATM
An ATM is available on-site for visitor convenience.
Near the main entrance
Nursing Room
A dedicated nursing room is available for mothers with infants.
Inside the facility
Insider Tips
Visit midweek for fewer crowds, and don’t miss the seasonal soft serve and weekend lunch events.
- Best Arrival Time: Visit between 9:00 AM and 9:30 AM on weekdays to secure a seat at the naPPA・haUsu restaurant before the lunch rush, as it fills up quickly after 10:00 AM
- Hidden Gems: Pick up the Kurara no Yu Original Sake Manju at the Dream Shop Kurakake counter—these are only available during the winter months and sell out fast
- Weekend Special: On weekends, visit the naPPA・haUsu restaurant between 11:00 AM and 12:30 PM to enjoy the popular Sunday Lunch Buffet, which features seasonal local dishes and is only available on Saturdays and Sundays
- Best View Time: Climb to the Tennou Sky Tower at 4:30 PM on clear days to catch the full sunset over the Japan Sea, as the view is most dramatic just before dusk
- Best Purchase Time: Visit the Tennou Green Market before 1:00 PM to get the freshest local vegetables and fruits—especially the seasonal strawberries and autumn apples, which are picked daily and sold out by early afternoon
- Best Bathing Time: Use the Kurara no Yu hot spring facility on weekdays between 9:00 AM and 10:30 AM to avoid crowds and take advantage of the male-female bath rotation schedule, which allows for uninterrupted access to both the Japanese and Western-style baths
- Best Snack Time: Order the Original Fresh Caramel Soft Cream at the Dream Shop Kurakake stand between 1:00 PM and 2:00 PM to enjoy it while walking through the Garden of Legends, where the soft cream’s flavor pairs perfectly with the surrounding seasonal flowers
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March-May): Cherry blossoms peak in late April at Tenno Green Land, while fresh bamboo shoots are available at the Green Market from April.
Summer (June-August): The Sky Tower offers panoramic views of the Sea of Japan and Mount Gassan, with evening sunsets at their most dramatic.
Autumn (September-November): Red leaves color the landscape from mid-October through November, coinciding with seasonal events and the Christmas buffet preorder.
Winter (December-February): The spa and soft-serve ice cream are available, with the Sky Tower open year-round for clear views of snow-covered scenery.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Features include a playground, kids' corner in the bathhouse, and a variety of activities. Child-friendly food options and stroller-accessible facilities are available. The large, safe, and well-maintained grounds are ideal for families.
Food Lover Review
Offers diverse dining options including a popular lunch buffet and local specialties like vegetable miso ramen. Fresh produce from the Green Market and unique items like original sake-filled dumplings enhance the culinary experience.
Car Camping Review
Provides restrooms, vending machines, and ample parking. The site is quiet with scenic views, though overnight parking is not explicitly permitted. Suitable for short stops but not ideal for extended camping.
Scenic Beauty Review
Offers panoramic views of the Oga Peninsula, Japan Sea, and Yagura Lake. The Sky Tower provides excellent photo opportunities. Seasonal beauty from cherry blossoms to autumn foliage enhances the natural appeal.