Station Naraha

Discover the Heart of Fukushima’s Renewed Spirit

Naraha roadside station, nestled along National Route 6 in the revitalized town of Naraha within Fukushima’s Futaba District, stands as a symbol of resilience and regional pride. Reopening in 2019 after years of closure due to the Great East Japan Earthquake, this modern roadside station blends the nostalgic charm of the historic Hamaguchi Kido Suku district with the dynamic energy of nearby J-Village. It’s more than a stop—it’s a destination where nature, culture, and community converge.

Guests are welcomed by a vibrant food court offering local specialties like fresh seafood ramen and yuzu salt ramen, crafted with ingredients from the region’s rich coastal and mountainous landscapes. The station features a relaxing onsen with diverse bathing experiences, a well-stocked souvenir shop highlighting Naraha’s unique produce, and interactive exhibition spaces. Whether you're seeking a peaceful soak, a taste of authentic Fukushima cuisine, or a connection to the area’s enduring spirit, Naraha offers a warm, welcoming experience for all travelers.

Naraha roadside station stands out as the only roadside station in the region offering a full-service onsen facility with diverse bath experiences, including unique aromatherapy baths and a sauna, all fueled by naturally flowing hot springs from the surrounding area. Visitors can savor the exclusive Naraha Seafood Tanmen, a rich ramen featuring fresh local catch from the Ito River, and sample the region’s famed Kakunodate Watermelon, known for its crisp texture and low wateriness. These signature offerings, paired with the station’s revitalized role as a cultural and recreational hub, create an experience found nowhere else.

• Best Arrival Time: Visit between 9:30 AM and 10:30 AM on weekdays to secure a seat at the food court before the lunch rush, as the popular Naraha Seafood Tanmen often sells out by 11:30 AM.

• Hidden Gems: Check the deli counter near the entrance for fresh Naraha Town specialty watermelon, which is only available from July to August and is known for its crisp texture and low water content.

• Weekend Special: On weekends, visit the outdoor area near the parking lot between 10:00 AM and 12:00 PM to catch the Kido River Ami Festival food trucks, where local vendors sell grilled river trout with seasonal herbs.

• Best Value Purchase: Buy the Naraha Town specialty pickled vegetables from the gift shop before 3:00 PM, as they are discounted by 20% after that time and are not restocked daily.

• Spa Timing: Use the relaxation lounge and saunas in the bathhouse area between 4:00 PM and 6:00 PM on weekdays, when the space is less crowded and staff are available to assist with bathrobe and towel service.

• Exclusive Menu: Order the Naraha Yuzu Salt Ramen at the food court counter between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM, as this dish is only served during this window and is not listed on the general menu.

• Best Photo Spot: Visit the first-floor exhibition space between 2:00 PM and 4:00 PM to see the rotating display of traditional Hamaguchi Mokudo Suku historical artifacts, which are only shown during these hours.

Spring (March–May): Fresh bamboo shoots available at the market in early spring; canola flower viewing peaks in late April.

Summer (June–August): Watermelon arrives in early July; the river trout festival takes place in mid-July.

Autumn (September–November): No specific seasonal offerings mentioned in the content.

Winter (December–February): No specific seasonal offerings mentioned in the content.