Station Kawauchi Lake

Discover the Heart of Rural Japan at Kawauchi Lake Roadside Station

Nestled beside the serene Kawauchi Lake, this roadside station offers a peaceful retreat where nature, culture, and local flavor come together. Surrounded by lush forests and rolling farmland, it’s a true gateway to the quiet beauty of Minamiboso. Visitors enjoy fresh regional specialties, handmade crafts, and stunning views—making it more than just a stop, but a destination in itself.

Kawauchi Lake roadside station is home to the region’s only handmade soba noodles crafted from locally milled buckwheat grown in the high-altitude fields surrounding the lake. Visitors can also sample rare Kawauchi trout, freshly caught from the pristine alpine waters, served in seasonal rice bowls only available here.

• Best Arrival Time: Arrive by 10:00 AM on weekdays to secure a seat at the Kawauchi Lake View Café, which opens at 9:00 AM and fills up quickly due to its lakeside seating and limited capacity
• Hidden Gems: Visit the small display near the entrance to the restroom area, where seasonal wild herbs and pickled vegetables from local foragers are offered for free daily from 10:30 AM to 12:00 PM
• Weekend Special: On Sundays, the Kawauchi Lake Farmstand (located just past the ticket booth) offers freshly harvested heirloom tomatoes and purple carrots from nearby organic farms, available only from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM
• Must-Try Product: Sample the Kawauchi Lake Freshwater Trout sushi roll at the food counter near the exit gate—this limited daily batch is made using trout caught that morning and sold out by 1:30 PM
• Parking Tip: Park in Zone B (closest to the lake overlook) to access the short walking trail to the lakeside picnic area, which is only open from 8:30 AM to 6:00 PM and closes earlier during rainy weather
• Bathroom Access: Use the accessible restroom near the main parking lot, which is open from 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM and features a baby-changing station and wheelchair ramp—this is the only fully accessible restroom on-site
• Local Event Alert: On the second Saturday of each month, the roadside station hosts a live acoustic music session at the outdoor stage, beginning at 2:00 PM and featuring local folk artists who perform exclusively with instruments made from regional wood

Spring (March–May): Canola flowers bloom in late March to April, creating a golden landscape ideal for photography and walking trails. Fresh bamboo shoots are available at the roadside station market in April.

Summer (June–August): Blueberries ripen from July to August, offering U-pick experiences and fresh berry desserts at the cafe.

Autumn (September–November): Autumn foliage peaks in late October, providing scenic views around Kawauchi Lake.

Winter (December–February): Snow-covered landscapes enhance the serene beauty of the lake, ideal for peaceful winter walks.