Discover the Heart of Southern Aizu at Banya Roadside Station
Nestled along National Route 352 at an elevation exceeding 800 meters, Banya Roadside Station stands as a welcoming gateway to the serene landscapes of Aizu Highlands in Fukushima Prefecture. Surrounded by lush mountains and pristine forests, this charming stop offers travelers a rare blend of natural beauty and authentic local culture. More than just a place to refuel, Banya serves as a vibrant hub where visitors can connect with the rhythms of rural life.
The station shines with its dedication to regional specialties, most notably the famed red radish pickles from Tategawa. Guests can savor unique treats like roasted buckwheat soft serve, a delightful fusion of earthy aroma and sweet maple corn. With seasonal produce, local crafts, and warm hospitality, Banya captures the essence of Southern Aizu—where tradition meets taste, and every visit feels like a true escape.
Why Visit
Banya roadside station stands out as the only stop along Route 352 where visitors can taste the region’s exclusive roasted buckwheat soft serve, a signature treat made with locally milled soba flour and paired with sweet maple corn. It’s also the sole location offering authentic red radish pickles—crafted from the famed tateiwa radish—harvested from nearby farms. Nestled at 800 meters elevation, it serves as the gateway to the pristine highland trails of South Aizu, making it a must-visit for hikers and nature lovers seeking genuine alpine experiences.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor authentic local flavors at Banya roadside station, where traditional dishes meet mountain freshness.
Soba Soft Cream
そばソフトクリーム
Specialty
Soba-flavored soft cream with roasted buckwheat powder and maple corn
A unique food stall offering a fragrant soft cream made with roasted buckwheat powder, perfectly paired with maple corn. Located at the roadside station, it provides a delightful treat with a local twist.
Shopping Highlights
Discover handcrafted goods and seasonal treasures at Banya, a gateway to South Aizu’s finest specialties.
Tateiwa Farm Produce Market
たていわ名産
A market featuring local agricultural products from Tateiwa, including seasonal vegetables and specialty pickled radish.
Products
Must-Try Item
Red Pickled Radish
Hirano Products
平野物産
A specialty shop offering regional souvenirs and local food products from South Aizu.
Products
Must-Try Item
Red Pickled Radish
Ogura Co.
株式会社オグラ
A local brewery specializing in traditional sake and regional alcoholic beverages.
Products
Must-Try Item
Local Sake
Kokken Brewery
国権酒造
A traditional sake brewery producing high-quality local sake using regional ingredients.
Products
Must-Try Item
Local Sake
Kinmon Sake Brewery
会津酒造
A renowned sake brewery in the Aizu region, known for its premium sake and traditional brewing methods.
Products
Must-Try Item
Premium Sake
Aizu Kinokoya
会津物産
A general store offering a wide range of local products, including food, crafts, and regional specialties.
Products
Must-Try Item
Local Food
Naraya Soba
奈良屋
A specialty shop focused on handmade soba noodles and related products.
Products
Must-Try Item
Handmade Soba Noodles
Ozemi Soba
亀屋
A traditional soba shop offering handmade soba noodles and related food items.
Products
Must-Try Item
Handmade Soba Noodles
Featured Products
Explore signature items like red radish pickles and regional sake, crafted with pride from local ingredients.
Red Pickled Radish
赤かぶ漬け
A signature local specialty from South Aizu, made from fresh radishes pickled in a sweet and tangy brine.
Local Sake
南会津の地酒
Premium sake crafted using traditional methods and local ingredients from the South Aizu region.
Soba Noodles
南会津のそば
Handmade buckwheat noodles produced in South Aizu, known for their rich flavor and chewy texture.
Soba-based Snacks
そばスナック
Crunchy snacks made from roasted buckwheat flour, perfect as a portable treat.
Local Vegetables
南会津の野菜
Fresh, seasonal vegetables grown in the high-altitude fields of South Aizu, known for their quality and flavor.
Traditional Souvenirs
伝統のお土産
Handcrafted souvenirs representing the culture and heritage of South Aizu.
Facilities & Amenities
Relax and recharge with convenient amenities, including parking, seating, and seasonal rest stops.
Parking
The roadside station has parking for 30 passenger cars, 2 large vehicles, and 2 priority spots.
Adjacent to the roadside station building
Restroom
Restrooms are available for visitors at the roadside station.
Inside the roadside station building
Information Center
The roadside station serves as an information center for visitors, offering details about local attractions, events, and services in the area.
Main building of the roadside station
Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi is available for visitors at the roadside station.
Throughout the station premises
Play Area
A play area is available for children near the roadside station, providing a space for family recreation.
Near the station entrance
EV Charging Station
Electric vehicle charging stations are available for visitors using electric cars.
Near the parking area
ATM
An ATM is available on-site for visitors to withdraw cash.
Near the entrance of the roadside station
Nursing Room
A private nursing room is available for mothers with infants, providing a comfortable space for feeding and care.
Inside the roadside station building
Pet Area
A designated pet-friendly area is available for visitors with pets, allowing them to walk and relax together.
Outside the station near the entrance
Activities & Experiences
Engage in hands-on experiences and seasonal events that bring South Aizu’s culture and nature to life.
Soba Soft Cream
そばソフトクリーム
Enjoy a rich, aromatic soft cream made with roasted buckwheat powder, perfectly paired with maple corn.
Duration
30 min
Summer Fireworks Festival
第３０回会津高原たていわ夏まつり花火大会
Attend the 30th anniversary of the Aizu Highlands Tategawa Summer Festival featuring a spectacular fireworks display.
Duration
120 min
Outdoor event; subject to cancellation due to rain
Insider Tips
Plan your visit around local festivals and off-peak hours for a more authentic, serene journey.
- Best Arrival Time: Visit between 9:00 and 10:00 AM on weekdays to secure the last available servings of the fresh-baked soba bread sold at the deli counter, which often sells out by 11:00 AM
- Hidden Gems: Ask the staff at the counter near the entrance for the limited-edition red turnip pickle (takikabu) made with locally grown turnips—only available during summer months and sold in small jars
- Weekend Special: On weekends, arrive by 11:30 AM to try the soba soft cream served only from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM, which is made using roasted buckwheat flour from the region
- Best Purchase Timing: Buy the local buckwheat noodles at the shop counter just before closing on Thursdays, as they are restocked only once per week and often sell out by 4:30 PM
- Pro Tip for Foodies: Order the garlic dumplings with a side of pickled turnip at the food stand—this combo is a local favorite and only available during the summer festival season (July 26)
- Parking Strategy: If visiting on weekends, park in the designated large vehicle spot near the entrance, as the regular parking area fills quickly by 10:30 AM
- Seasonal Insight: During winter months, visit on the first day of each month to see the newly released dried mountain vegetables displayed in the seasonal section, as they are restocked monthly and not advertised elsewhere
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March-May): Fresh bamboo shoots available at roadside station markets; peak season for early spring hiking in nearby mountains.
Summer (June-August): Annual Tategawa Summer Festival & Fireworks held on July 26; ideal for enjoying local soba and soft serve.
Autumn (September-November): Harvest season for local tomatoes and traditional kanzashi crafts; scenic mountain views at peak foliage.
Winter (December-February): Snowy landscapes ideal for winter sports; heated roadside station offers warm local snacks and souvenirs.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Banya roadside station offers a small play area and child-friendly food like soba soft cream. It features stroller-friendly paths and accessible restrooms. Educational elements include local product displays and seasonal events for families.
Food Lover Review
The station features high-quality local specialties such as red radish pickle and soba soft cream. It offers fresh produce from regional farms and artisanal products like local soba and seasonal vegetables.
Car Camping Review
Banya provides basic facilities including restrooms and vending machines. The site is relatively quiet and suitable for short stays. Overnight parking is allowed, though no formal camping policy is stated.
Scenic Beauty Review
Located at 800m elevation, Banya offers scenic mountain views and forested surroundings. There are excellent photo spots near the roadside and seasonal beauty in spring and autumn. The atmosphere is peaceful and naturally serene.