Discover the Heart of Japan’s Natural and Culinary Heritage
Mikata Goko roadside station is a vibrant gateway to one of Japan’s most treasured landscapes—home to the Ramsar-listed Three Lakes and abundant natural beauty. Nestled in the serene heart of Wakasa, this roadside station sits at the crossroads of mountains, lakes, and sea, offering travelers a unique blend of rural charm and modern convenience. More than just a pit stop, it’s a cultural crossroads where local traditions, seasonal bounty, and sustainable tourism come together.
Here, visitors can savor fresh local delicacies like wild eel from the lakes, seasonal squid, and delicate fugu, all prepared with regional pride. With easy access to kayaking, hiking, and cultural sites like the historic Kumagawa post town, Mikata Goko invites you to experience the rhythm of life in rural Japan—where every meal, view, and encounter tells a story.
Why Visit
Visit Mikata Goko roadside station to experience the only location in the region where you can taste fresh, handcrafted milk ice cream made from Jersey cow milk raised in the local highlands. Nearby, the rare and seasonal Aoli squid—harvested only from September to November—is available for purchase and enjoyed in unique local dishes, offering a taste of the sea that can’t be found elsewhere.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor fresh seafood and regional flavors at Mikata Goko roadside station.
Fugu Specialty Restaurant
ふぐ料理
Specialty
Fresh fugu prepared in traditional style
A dedicated restaurant offering authentic fugu cuisine, known for its delicate preparation and rich flavor. The atmosphere is elegant and traditional, perfect for experiencing the unique culinary heritage of the region.
Eel Specialty Restaurant
うなぎ料理
Specialty
Fresh freshwater eel from Mikata Five Lakes
A cozy eatery specializing in grilled eel dishes, using locally sourced natural eel from the pristine waters of the Mikata Five Lakes. The ambiance is warm and rustic, ideal for a relaxing meal.
Local Seafood Food Stall
海の幸
Specialty
Fresh seasonal seafood from the Sea of Japan
A lively food stall offering quick, affordable bites of fresh seafood caught daily from the Sea of Japan. The atmosphere is casual and vibrant, perfect for a quick snack while exploring the area.
Shopping Highlights
Discover local crafts and seasonal treats at Mikata Goko roadside station.
Local Produce Market
地元農産物市場
A market selling fresh seasonal vegetables, fruits, and herbs grown in the surrounding region of Mikata Five Lakes.
Products
Must-Try Item
Mikata Five Lakes Tomatoes
Traditional Bakery
伝統菓子屋
A small bakery specializing in traditional Japanese sweets made with local ingredients.
Products
Must-Try Item
Mikata Sweet Rice Cake
Craft and Souvenir Shop
工芸品とお土産
A shop offering handmade crafts and souvenirs made by local artisans, including lacquerware, textiles, and pottery.
Products
Must-Try Item
Mikata Five Lakes Lacquerware Box
Local Alcohol Shop
地酒販売
A shop specializing in locally brewed sake and regional alcoholic beverages.
Products
Must-Try Item
Mikata Five Lakes Sake
Featured Products
Taste signature specialties like fugu, eel, and squid from the heart of Wakasa.
Mikata Five Lakes Sake
三方五湖地酒
Locally brewed premium sake made with water from the pristine Mikata Five Lakes, known for its clean and balanced flavor.
Mikata Five Lakes Tomatoes
三方五湖トマト
Sun-ripened tomatoes grown in the fertile soil of the Mikata Five Lakes region, known for their sweetness and firm texture.
Mikata Five Lakes Lacquerware Box
三方五湖漆器箱
Handcrafted lacquerware box made using traditional techniques from the region, ideal as a keepsake or gift.
Mikata Sweet Rice Cake
三方五湖甘味餅
Traditional sweet rice cake made with local rice and natural sweeteners, offering a soft texture and subtle flavor.
Facilities & Amenities
Enjoy convenient amenities and relaxing spaces at Mikata Goko roadside station.
Information Center
The roadside station features an information center to assist visitors with tourism information, local attractions, and travel guidance.
Inside the roadside station
Parking Area
A designated parking area is available for visitors' vehicles.
Near the main entrance
Restroom
Public restrooms are available for visitors' convenience.
Inside the roadside station building
Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi is provided for visitors to use within the roadside station.
Throughout the facility
EV Charging Station
Electric vehicle charging stations are available for visitors with electric cars.
Near the parking area
ATM
An ATM is available for visitors to withdraw cash.
Near the entrance
Play Area
A children's play area is provided for families with young kids.
Outside near the parking area
Nursing Room
A private nursing room is available for mothers with infants.
Inside the restroom area
Activities & Experiences
Join seasonal workshops and immersive experiences at Mikata Goko roadside station.
Pufferfish Cooking Experience
ふぐ料理
Participants will learn how to prepare and cook fresh pufferfish, a local specialty, using traditional methods.
Duration
60 min
Canoeing Experience
カヌー体験
Participants will enjoy paddling a canoe on the serene waters of the Mikata Five Lakes, exploring the natural beauty of the area.
Duration
90 min
Weather-dependent; activities may be canceled in heavy rain or strong winds.
Eel Cooking Experience
うなぎ料理
Participants will learn to prepare and cook fresh freshwater eel from Mikata Lake, a regional delicacy.
Duration
60 min
Squid Season Experience
アオリイカの季節到来
Enjoy the seasonal catch of short squid (Aori Ika) through guided tastings and local culinary experiences.
Duration
120 min
Best enjoyed during clear, calm weather; may be affected by strong sea conditions.
Kumagawa Ippuku Jidai Village Festival
第26回熊川いっぷく時代村
Experience a historical reenactment festival in Kumagawa Juku, featuring traditional costumes, crafts, and period-style performances.
Duration
180 min
Outdoor event; may be rescheduled or canceled due to rain or extreme weather.
Insider Tips
Plan your visit around peak seasons and local events for the best experience at Mikata Goko roadside station.
- Best Arrival Time: Arrive by 9:30 AM on weekends to secure the limited daily batch of fresh-baked milk bread from the in-house bakery, which sells out by 11:00 AM and is not restocked
- Hidden Gems: Visit the deli counter between 10:00 AM and 11:30 AM to find the seasonal limited-edition "Aori Ika (squid) miso soup" made from locally caught squid during the peak season (mid-September to late November)
- Weekend Special: On weekends, check the event board near the entrance for the "Kumagawa Ippuku Jidai Mura" historical reenactment, which runs from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM and features traditional Edo-period costumed performers
- Must-Try Food: Order the "Fugu and Eel Combo Set" at the restaurant counter between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM, as this special menu is only available during the fugu and eel season (October to December)
- Photography Tip: Take photos of the lake view from the western-facing observation deck between 3:00 PM and 4:30 PM, when the sunlight reflects off the surface of the Mikata Five Lakes and creates a golden glow
- Parking Strategy: Use the far-left parking lot near the entrance if you're visiting on a weekday, as it is reserved for guests who plan to stay at the nearby official lodging reservation site, which opens at 9:00 AM daily
- Event Alert: Check the bulletin board near the restrooms on the first Tuesday of each month for the "Mikata Goko Cultural Heritage Walk," a guided tour of the historical ruins of the former Kumagawa post town that starts at 10:00 AM
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March–May): Fresh bamboo shoots available at roadside station market; peak season for canola flower viewing in late April.
Summer (June–August): No specific seasonal offerings mentioned; roadside station operates daily without closure.
Autumn (September–November): Peak season for squid (Aori-ika) from mid-September to late November; autumn foliage enhances lake views.
Winter (December–February): No seasonal events or products listed; roadside station closed only during New Year holidays.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Mikata Goko roadside station offers a children's play area, stroller-friendly paths, and family-friendly dining. Educational displays on local ecology and seasonal events enhance the experience. Safety and accessibility are well maintained.
Food Lover Review
The station features diverse local cuisine including fresh fugu, unagi, and squid. High-quality produce from nearby farms and artisanal food products elevate the dining experience. Seasonal specialties add variety and authenticity.
Car Camping Review
Restrooms and vending machines are available. The site is quiet and suitable for overnight stays. However, overnight parking is not clearly permitted, limiting its suitability for extended camping.
Scenic Beauty Review
Overlooking the Ramsar-listed Mikata Five Lakes, the station offers stunning natural views. Scenic viewpoints and seasonal changes enhance visual appeal. The serene atmosphere and well-maintained surroundings create a memorable aesthetic experience.