Discover the Heart of Aizu at Aizu Yanaizu Roadside Station
Nestled in the serene landscapes of Aizu, Aizu Yanaizu Roadside Station is a gateway to the region’s rich heritage and natural beauty. Located along the scenic route through Fukushima Prefecture, it offers travelers a perfect blend of relaxation, local culture, and authentic experiences. Surrounded by rolling hills and traditional farmland, the station serves as both a welcoming rest stop and a vibrant community hub.
What sets Aizu Yanaizu apart is its deep connection to local craftsmanship and seasonal bounty. Visitors can savor freshly made regional delicacies, including handcrafted tofu and seasonal vegetables, while exploring a charming marketplace featuring handmade goods and local art. The nearby Seiryu Inn and scenic walking trails provide opportunities to immerse in Aizu’s tranquil charm, making every visit a memorable journey into rural Japan.
Why Visit
Aizu Yanaizu roadside station stands out as the only place where visitors can taste the region’s famed artisanal milk ice cream made exclusively from Jersey cows raised in the Aizu highlands. Just steps away, the station’s signature experience is the live demonstration of traditional Aizu-style pottery, where artisans craft intricate ceramics using local clay. These unique offerings—both food and craft—can be found nowhere else in the region.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor authentic regional flavors at Aizu Yanaizu roadside station, where seasonal ingredients meet traditional cooking.
Seiryu Inn
清流亭
Specialty
Traditional Japanese cuisine with seasonal ingredients
A serene dining experience featuring authentic Japanese meals crafted with locally sourced seasonal ingredients. The atmosphere is peaceful and elegant, ideal for enjoying a refined meal in a tranquil setting.
Seiryu Dining
清流亭 食事処
Specialty
Quick, authentic local meals
A casual food stall offering simple, hearty meals made with fresh, local ingredients. Perfect for a quick bite while exploring the roadside station.
Shopping Highlights
Discover local crafts and fresh produce at Aizu Yanaizu, a gateway to the area’s artisanal heritage.
Forest Market
森の市場
A market specializing in fresh, locally grown produce from nearby farms.
Products
Must-Try Item
Freshly harvested seasonal vegetables
Tukimi Craft Shop
月見工芸
A specialty store offering handmade crafts and artisanal goods made by local artisans.
Products
Must-Try Item
Handwoven local textile
Seizan Specialty Store
清山専門店
A souvenir shop featuring unique local products and gifts from the Aizu region.
Products
Must-Try Item
Aizu-style wooden souvenir
Featured Products
Sample signature specialties like Aizu mountain vegetables and handcrafted confections unique to the region.
Aizu Mountain Tea
会津山茶
Premium green tea grown in the mountainous regions of Aizu, known for its rich flavor and natural aroma.
Local Honey
地元ハチミツ
Pure, unfiltered honey harvested from wildflowers in the Aizu forests.
Aizu Dried Vegetables
会津干し野菜
Traditional dried vegetables preserved using time-honored methods, ideal for soups and stews.
Facilities & Amenities
Relax and recharge with clean restrooms, free Wi-Fi, and scenic viewing areas at Aizu Yanaizu.
Information Center
The roadside station features an information center that provides visitors with local information, maps, and assistance.
Located at the main entrance area
Restroom
Clean and accessible restrooms are available for visitors, including facilities for people with disabilities.
Near the main entrance and near the dining area
Parking Area
Ample parking space is available for cars and motorcycles, located adjacent to the roadside station building.
Front and side of the roadside station
Free Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the premises for visitors' convenience.
Throughout the station, including the dining and waiting areas
Children's Play Area
A safe and fun play area for children, equipped with playground equipment and shaded seating.
Near the main parking area
EV Charging Station
Electric vehicle charging stations are available for visitors using electric cars.
Near the main parking area
ATM
An ATM is available on-site for cash withdrawals.
Near the information center
Nursing Room
A private and comfortable nursing room is provided for mothers with infants.
Inside the restroom building
Pet Area
A designated area for pets to rest and relieve themselves, with waste disposal bins provided.
Near the entrance and exit paths
Insider Tips
Visit early to avoid crowds and ask staff for the best local routes and hidden gems nearby.
- Best Arrival Time: Visit between 9:00 AM and 10:00 AM on weekends to secure the limited daily batch of freshly baked milk bread from the on-site bakery, which sells out by 11:00 AM and is not restocked
- Hidden Gems: At the deli counter, look for the seasonal Aizu Yanaizu Forest Mushroom Bento, available only from late September to early November and sold exclusively during lunch hours
- Weekend Special: On Saturdays and Sundays, the local farmers’ market at the roadside station features the Aizu Yanaizu Black Rice Porridge, served hot from 10:30 AM until it runs out—typically by 1:00 PM
- Must-Try Product: Purchase the Aizu Yanaizu Yuzu Honey at the souvenir shop before 3:00 PM, as it is only restocked once daily and frequently sells out by early afternoon
- Parking Tip: Use the far-left parking lot near the forest trail entrance to avoid congestion, as the main lot fills quickly during weekend mornings when visitors arrive for the Seiryu River scenic walk
- Best Viewpoint Access: Head to the small observation deck behind the roadside station’s main building just after 4:00 PM on weekdays to catch the golden hour light reflecting off the Seiryu River without crowds
- Dining Hack: Order the Aizu Yanaizu Forest Rice Bowl at the on-site restaurant between 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM to guarantee the daily fresh harvest of wild mountain vegetables, which are only available during lunch service
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March–May): Canola flowers bloom from late March to April, creating vibrant fields ideal for photography and walking trails.
Summer (June–August): Fresh bamboo shoots are harvested and sold at the roadside station market through July.
Autumn (September–November): Autumn foliage peaks in early to mid-November, offering scenic views from nearby trails.
Winter (December–February): The surrounding mountains are blanketed in snow, providing serene winter landscapes and quiet visits.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Aizu Yanaizu offers a children's play area, stroller-friendly paths, and family-oriented dining. Interactive exhibits and safe, accessible facilities enhance the experience for all ages.
Food Lover Review
The roadside station features diverse local specialties, fresh regional produce, and high-quality artisanal food. Dining options include traditional meals and seasonal treats.
Car Camping Review
Basic facilities like restrooms and vending machines are available. While parking is accessible, the area lacks quiet zones and dedicated overnight camping spaces.
Scenic Beauty Review
Located near scenic rivers and forests, Aizu Yanaizu offers picturesque views, well-maintained viewpoints, and seasonal beauty throughout the year.