Station Bandai

Discover the Heart of Fukushima’s Natural and Culinary Heritage

Nestled at the foot of Mount Bandai in the serene town of Bandai, this roadside station is a vibrant gateway to the region’s rich culture, breathtaking landscapes, and authentic local flavors. More than a mere rest stop, Bandai serves as a dynamic hub where nature, tradition, and modern adventure converge.

Visitors are welcomed by an array of seasonal delights, from sun-ripened peaches and freshly harvested corn to award-winning local honey and crisp, sweet tomatoes. The station’s standout offerings include the beloved Bandai Koro-kke Bread, a savory treat made with regional miso, and the whimsical Melon Bread, inspired by the snow-capped peak. For the adventurous, the dedicated Montbell outdoor gear section offers top-quality gear for hiking and mountain exploration, while the on-site bar features curated local sake and popular highballs from regional distilleries. With dining at the authentic Aizu Ryo restaurant and a calendar of cultural events like traditional Noh performances, Bandai delivers a uniquely immersive experience in every season.

Visit Bandai roadside station to experience the only place in the region where you can taste the famed Bandai Koro-kke Bread—crafted with locally made miso and served in a towering sandwich form, a true local specialty. Equally unique is the exclusive BANDAI nyaraman sake, a limited-edition pure rice wine with a cat-themed label, available only here. For outdoor enthusiasts, the station’s dedicated Montbell outdoor gear corner offers essential gear for hiking the sacred Mount Bandai, making it a must-stop for adventurers.

• Best Arrival Time: Visit between 11:00 AM and 12:00 PM to catch the daily fresh batch of Pandai Korokke Bread at the Gelapan bakery, as it is made fresh each day and often sells out by early afternoon.

• Hidden Gems: Head to the Montbell Corner in the outdoor section and ask for the Tempest Jacket—it features a pit-zip design for ventilation and is made with Gore-Tex fabric, ideal for sudden weather changes during hikes around Mount Bandai.

• Weekend Special: On weekends, check the "Sake Gacha" event at the liquor counter, where one 1,000 yen pull guarantees at least 1,100 yen worth of alcohol; the top prize in October is the Yamakawa Daiginjo "Mitsurumon" Gold Medal Winner, available only during the event.

• Best Purchase for Hikers: Buy the Pandai Mountain T-shirt at the merchandise counter and ask for the "Pandai Mountain Preservation Fund" version—100 yen from each sale supports environmental conservation efforts in the area.

• Must-Try Food Item: Order the Pandai Mountain Melon Bread at Gelapan—it features Hokkaido melon juice in the cream and is shaped to resemble snow-capped Mount Bandai, available only during peak season.

• Insider Drink Tip: Try the 963 Blended Whisky Highball at the liquor counter—this canned highball is made with a blend from a local distillery in Koriyama, known for its smooth peat aroma and delicate sweetness, and is a local favorite.

• Best Value Meal: At Kaijō Ryō restaurant, order the Kifuku Ramen for 750 yen, which includes free large servings—this is the most popular dish and is recommended for visitors coming from the nearby Kifuku area.

Spring (March–May): Fresh bamboo shoots arrive in early spring, and peach season begins in late May with varieties like Akatsuki and Sakura Shiro桃.

Summer (June–August): Fresh corn is harvested at peak sweetness from mid-July through August, and summer sake is available starting July.

Autumn (September–November): October features the seasonal "Sake Gacha" and cold-brewed "Hiaoroshi" sake from September, with local harvests in full swing.

Winter (December–February): The restaurant closes early, but winter-themed products like the Akabeko bread are available through February.