Station Nataeshō

Savor the Heart of Rural Japan at Nataeshō

Nataeshō, nestled in the tranquil village of Ohi within Fukui Prefecture’s scenic coastline, is more than a roadside station—it’s a gateway to the region’s rich culinary and natural heritage. Surrounded by lush forests and the sparkling waters of the Wakasa Bay National Park, this inviting stop offers travelers a rare glimpse into sustainable living and local tradition.

Here, visitors can savor the famed bōtan nabe, a winter delicacy made with wild boar and seasonal vegetables in a savory miso broth, or sample locally cultivated shiitake mushrooms and mountain yam dishes. With seasonal events, outdoor adventures, and a charming blend of culture and cuisine, Nataeshō celebrates the rhythm of the land—where every meal, journey, and moment feels rooted in authenticity.

Nataeshō stands out as the only roadside station in the region offering a hands-on experience with the rare and prized "Kinsho Shii-take" shiitake mushrooms, grown using traditional methods in the forested hills of Ohi. Visitors can participate in guided mushroom cultivation workshops, learning how to grow and care for these gourmet fungi at home. Equally unique is the station’s exclusive access to the seasonal "Botan Nabe," a winter specialty made with locally hunted wild boar, served in its traditional form only in the Namejō area. These authentic, place-specific experiences—rarely found elsewhere—make Nataeshō a destination for those seeking deep connections to local culture and flavor.

• Best Arrival Time: Visit between 9:30 AM and 10:30 AM on weekdays to secure the day’s fresh batch of milk bread from the bakery at Nataeshō, which sells out by 11:00 AM and is only available during morning hours.

• Hidden Gems: At the deli counter, look for the "natural yam and yam soba set" — a seasonal specialty made from locally grown natural yam, available only during the autumn months when the harvest is fresh.

• Weekend Special: On weekends, visit the food truck at SEE SEA PARK between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM to sample the "buttery grilled natural yam skewers" — a limited-time offering from local vendors during the autumn festival season.

• Event-Driven Purchase: Participate in the JAF Drive Stamp Rally by visiting all 15 locations in the town, including Nataeshō, to collect stamps and redeem your prize. The full set of 15 stamps unlocks a prize of a whole Yosuke crab, available only until November 30.

• Seasonal Food Experience: In late October and November, visit the "foodmash" BBQ house at Nataeshō to enjoy a special "buttered natural yam and grilled fish" combo, which is only served during the natural yam harvest season and requires advance booking.

• Local Product Tip: Purchase the "Kinsho Shiitake" mushroom cultivation kit at Nataeshō’s gift shop — this kit includes pre-inoculated logs and instructions to grow shiitake mushrooms at home, available exclusively during the autumn season.

• Cycling Access: Rent an electric-assist bicycle from the Nataeshō visitor center between 9:00 AM and 12:00 PM to reach the nearby "Forest of Mushrooms" and "SEE SEA PARK" with ease, as the rental is only available during morning hours and requires booking one month in advance.

Spring (March–May): Fresh bamboo shoots available at roadside station markets starting late March; wild mountain vegetables and early-season shiitake mushrooms harvested from April.

Summer (June–August): Insect exhibitions at Kino no Mori and summer fireworks; natural ryokan and mountain stream activities peak in July.

Autumn (September–November): Super Fire Festival and bicycle events in September; autumn foliage and early harvest of wild mushrooms at roadside station.

Winter (December–February): Authentic bōtan nabe served from mid-November to late March; winter stargazing and coastal views at roadside station.