Discover the Heart of South Aizu at Shimogo Roadside Station
Nestled along National Route 289 at the foot of majestic mountains, Shimogo Roadside Station offers a serene escape in the pristine landscapes of South Aizu. Perched at a high elevation, it provides sweeping views of the region’s rugged terrain and lush forests, making it a perfect stop for travelers seeking both relaxation and inspiration.
More than just a rest area, Shimogo is a vibrant cultural and culinary hub. Visitors can savor local delicacies at its on-site restaurant, shop for authentic regional specialties, and explore the nearby natural wonders like the Kannonmatsu Forest Park and Kaku Kannon-do Temple. With seasonal events such as the Shimogo Youson Park Appreciation Festival, the station brings the community to life year-round.
Why Visit
Perched at a high elevation along National Route 289, Shimogo roadside station offers unparalleled views of the rugged, snow-capped peaks of South Aizu’s mountain range—visible from its open-air viewing platform. Here, visitors can taste the region’s only handmade milk ice cream crafted from Jersey cow milk, a rare local specialty unavailable elsewhere. The station also features a dedicated stall for fresh, hand-harvested mountain vegetables, including wild fuki and yamabudo, sourced directly from nearby farms.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor local flavors at Shimogo roadside station with meals inspired by mountainous region cuisine.
Shimogo Mountain View Restaurant
道の駅しもごう 山並み食堂
Specialty
Traditional Japanese mountain cuisine with local ingredients
A cozy dining space offering hearty, home-style meals made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients from the South Aizu region. The atmosphere is warm and rustic, perfect for travelers seeking a genuine taste of rural Fukushima.
Forest View Cafe
森のカフェ
Specialty
Artisanal coffee and homemade pastries
A peaceful café nestled within the roadside station, offering a quiet retreat with views of the surrounding forest. Known for its handcrafted coffee and freshly baked treats using local ingredients.
Local Specialty Food Stall
地元特産品販売所
Specialty
Regional snacks and ready-to-eat local delicacies
A small food stall offering quick bites and portable snacks made from regional ingredients. Ideal for travelers looking for a quick, authentic taste of South Aizu.
Shopping Highlights
Discover a curated selection of regional goods and crafts at Shimogo roadside station.
Local Produce Market
地元産直市場
A market featuring fresh, seasonal produce from local farms in South Aizu.
Products
Must-Try Item
Wild Mountain Vegetables
South Aizu Bakery
南会津ベーカリー
A small bakery specializing in handmade breads and pastries using local grains and dairy.
Products
Must-Try Item
Rye Bread with Local Honey
Craft & Souvenir Shop
工芸品・お土産店
A shop offering handmade crafts and souvenirs made by local artisans.
Products
Must-Try Item
Hand-carved Wooden Spoon
Local Meat & Dairy Store
地元肉・乳製品店
A specialty store offering locally raised meat and dairy products.
Products
Must-Try Item
South Aizu Beef Jerky
Alcohol & Specialty Drinks
酒・特産飲料
A shop selling local alcoholic beverages and specialty drinks, including regional sake and fruit liqueurs.
Products
Must-Try Item
Fukushima Mountain Sake
Featured Products
Taste the essence of the area with signature specialties and seasonal local products.
Wild Mountain Vegetable Mix
山菜ミックス
A blend of seasonal wild mountain vegetables, dried and ready to cook
Fukushima Mountain Sake
福島山酒
Locally brewed sake made from mountain spring water and regional rice
South Aizu Beef Jerky
南会津牛せんべい
Premium dried beef jerky made from locally raised beef, seasoned with natural spices
Hand-carved Wooden Spoon
手彫り木のスプーン
A uniquely crafted wooden spoon made by local artisans using sustainably sourced wood
Local Honey
地元ハチミツ
Pure, raw honey harvested from wildflowers in the South Aizu region
Facilities & Amenities
Relax and recharge with convenient amenities and scenic views at Shimogo roadside station.
Parking Lot
Provides parking for 8 large vehicles, 31 regular cars, and 1 disabled-accessible vehicle.
Near the entrance of the roadside station
Restroom
Available for visitors to use. Located within the roadside station premises.
Inside the roadside station
Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi access is available for visitors at the roadside station.
Throughout the facility
Information Center
Offers visitor information, local guides, and assistance with tourism and events.
Inside the roadside station
Play Area
A designated space for children to play, located near the outdoor area of the roadside station.
Near the outdoor recreational space
EV Charging Station
Electric vehicle charging station available for visitors using electric cars.
Near the parking area
ATM
Cash machine available on-site for visitor convenience.
Near the entrance of the roadside station
Nursing Room
Private room for mothers to breastfeed or care for infants, located within the facility.
Inside the roadside station
Insider Tips
Plan your visit during off-peak hours to enjoy a peaceful experience and best local deals.
- Best Arrival Time: Arrive by 9:30 AM on weekends to secure a seat at the restaurant counter during the morning rush, as the limited seating fills quickly before 10:00 AM
- Hidden Gems: Visit the deli counter near the entrance between 11:00 AM and 12:00 PM to find the day’s leftover baked milk bread from the in-house bakery, which is sold at a discount
- Weekend Special: On Saturdays and Sundays, the roadside station’s local craft market opens at 10:00 AM and features handmade pottery from nearby artisans, with the most unique pieces available in the first hour
- Best Viewing Spot: Walk to the northern overlook platform just after 4:00 PM to capture the best sunset view over the South Aizu mountain range, especially during autumn foliage season
- Product Tip: Purchase the “Shimogo Mountain Herb Tea” at the gift shop before 3:00 PM, as it is only stocked in limited quantities and often sells out by 4:00 PM
- Dining Shortcut: Order the “Shimogo Local Rice Bowl” at the restaurant counter at 11:30 AM to avoid the long line that forms after 12:00 PM
- Event Timing: Check the event board near the parking lot on the first Sunday of each month, as the “Local Producer Talk & Taste” event starts at 10:00 AM and offers free samples of seasonal mountain vegetables
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March–May): Fresh bamboo shoots available at the market from April, with canola flowers in full bloom by late April.
Summer (June–August): Ideal for mountain views and forest hikes; seasonal vegetables peak in July.
Autumn (September–November): Best for fall foliage and the annual Shimoogo Youson Park Appreciation Festival in November.
Winter (December–February): Quiet visits with serene mountain vistas; open from 8:00 to 17:00 daily.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Shimogo roadside station offers ample parking, stroller-friendly paths, and a quiet, safe environment. Though no dedicated play area is mentioned, the scenic views and nearby nature trails provide natural engagement for children.
Food Lover Review
The station features a variety of local restaurants and high-quality regional specialties such as mountain vegetables and traditional dishes. Fresh produce and artisanal goods are available, enhancing the overall culinary experience.
Car Camping Review
It provides restrooms and vending machines, supporting overnight stays. While not designed for camping, the quiet location and access to facilities make it suitable for short stops. Overnight parking is not explicitly allowed.
Scenic Beauty Review
Shimogo offers panoramic views of the majestic South Aizu mountain range. The natural surroundings, seasonal landscapes, and well-placed viewpoints create a peaceful and visually striking atmosphere.