Discover the Heart of Kōzuke’s Natural Bounty and Craftsmanship
Tajima roadside station lies at the southern gateway of Minamiaizu, perched along National Route 121 near the mountain pass of Yamagōtō. Nestled between the historic charm of Ōkōzuke and the wild beauty of the Ōaizu wilderness, it serves as both a gateway to adventure and a sanctuary for travelers. This vibrant roadside station is more than a pit stop—it’s a celebration of local heritage, where the rich flavors of Fukushima’s acclaimed sake, handcrafted goods, and seasonal mountain produce come together.
Home to four award-winning breweries—including gold medalists in the national New Sake Competition—Tajima offers an unparalleled selection of premium sake. Visitors can also enjoy fresh local delicacies, seasonal tent sales, and light meals, all within a setting that harmonizes nature and community. Whether beginning a journey through the pristine forests of Tazawako or ending a day of exploration, Tajima invites you to savor the authentic spirit of rural Japan.
Why Visit
Tajima roadside station is the only place in the region where you can taste and purchase sake from all three of South Aizu’s gold-medal-winning breweries, recognized as Japan’s best in 2024. Located at the gateway to the rugged beauty of O-Aizu, it offers panoramic views of the mountainous landscape from the summit of Yamakōtō Pass. Visitors can also sample seasonal local delicacies like wild mountain vegetable dumplings and fresh honey from the area’s native bees—flavors you won’t find anywhere else.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor authentic local flavors at Tajima roadside station, where seasonal ingredients meet traditional craftsmanship.
Tajima Local Food Restaurant
道の駅たじま お食事処 たじま
Specialty
Traditional local cuisine from the Tajima region
A cozy dining space offering authentic regional dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, perfect for travelers seeking a taste of authentic Fukushima mountain cuisine.
Tent Food Stall
テント販売
Specialty
Quick local snacks and seasonal treats
A casual outdoor food stall offering light, fresh, and seasonal snacks for travelers on the go. The atmosphere is lively and casual, ideal for a quick bite during a mountain hike or sightseeing trip.
Light Meal Counter
軽食販売
Specialty
Simple, quick meals and drinks
A convenient counter offering light meals and beverages for travelers needing a quick refreshment. The setting is simple and efficient, ideal for a short break during a long journey.
Shopping Highlights
Discover a curated selection of regional goods and artisanal treasures at Tajima roadside station.
Local Products Store
物産館
A comprehensive retail space offering a wide range of local products, including food, crafts, and regional specialties.
Products
Must-Try Item
Fukushima Gold Award Sake
Farmers Market
農産物直売所
A fresh market featuring seasonal fruits, vegetables, and farm products directly from local producers.
Products
Must-Try Item
Mountain-grown Vegetables
Craft and Souvenir Shop
工芸品・お土産売店
A shop specializing in handmade crafts and traditional souvenirs from the region.
Products
Must-Try Item
Hand-carved Wooden Spoon
Alcohol Specialty Store
酒蔵直売所
A dedicated store selling premium sake and alcoholic beverages from local breweries, including award-winning varieties.
Products
Must-Try Item
Gold Award Sake from Fukushima Breweries
Featured Products
Taste the pride of Fukushima—gold-winning sake and other signature specialties from local producers.
Fukushima Gold Award Sake
福島県金賞受賞酒
Premium sake awarded gold at the national sake tasting competition, crafted using traditional methods and local rice.
Hand-carved Wooden Spoon
手彫り木のスプーン
A beautifully crafted wooden spoon made by local artisans using sustainably sourced wood.
Mountain-grown Vegetables Set
山菜セット
A curated selection of fresh, wild mountain vegetables harvested in the region, perfect for cooking traditional dishes.
Green Tea Ice Cream
抹茶アイスクリーム
Creamy green tea ice cream made with high-quality matcha from local farms.
Local Sea Salt Rice Balls
地元塩のおにぎり
Rice balls seasoned with natural sea salt from the region, wrapped in edible seaweed.
Facilities & Amenities
Enjoy convenient amenities including restrooms, parking, and a welcoming information center at Tajima roadside station.
Information Center
The roadside station serves as a tourist information hub, providing details about local attractions, events, and regional highlights such as the nearby Omiya and Tōno Hetsuri in Shimo-Go, and access to the vast natural beauty of the Ōkōzawa area including Oze and Shimoji.
At the southern entrance of the town, near the summit of Yamaō Pass on National Route 121
Parking
Ample parking space is available for visitors and travelers at the roadside station.
Adjacent to the main facility entrance
Restroom
Public restrooms are available for visitors and travelers.
Inside the main facility complex
Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi is provided for visitors to use within the roadside station.
Throughout the facility premises
EV Charging Station
Electric vehicle charging stations are available for visitors using electric vehicles.
Near the parking area
ATM
An automated teller machine (ATM) is available for cash withdrawals.
Near the entrance of the facility
Nursing Room
A private nursing room is available for mothers with infants.
Inside the facility, near the restroom area
Play Area
A designated play area is available for children to enjoy during visits.
Near the outdoor seating and picnic area
Insider Tips
Plan your visit around local blooms and festivals for the most memorable experience at Tajima roadside station.
- Best Arrival Time: Arrive by 9:30 AM on weekends to secure the day’s fresh batch of milk bread from the bakery counter, which sells out quickly and is not restocked after 11:00 AM
- Hidden Gems: Visit the south end of the gift shop counter to find the exclusive "Tajima Premium Sake Set" featuring four gold-medal-winning sakes from local breweries in Minamiaizu, available only during summer months
- Weekend Special: On Saturdays and Sundays, stop by the tent sales area between 10:00 AM and 12:00 PM to sample and purchase seasonal wild mountain vegetables like sansho and yamabushitake, sold only during the 4 to 11 month season
- Sake Tasting Tip: Request a free tasting sample at the sake counter between 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM, when staff are most available to explain the flavor profiles of the four gold-medal-winning sakes from Minamiaizu breweries
- Best Photo Spot: Head to the western side of the roadside station near the parking lot’s edge between 3:00 PM and 5:00 PM to capture the full view of the Omiya Pass summit with the mountains of Ozakura and Tashiro in the background
- Dining Strategy: Order the "Mountain Deli Box" at the light food counter before 1:00 PM to guarantee availability, as it includes locally sourced ingredients like wild garlic and mountain spinach and sells out by 2:30 PM
- Seasonal Insight: During the period from mid-June to early July, visit the roadside station’s north-facing flower bed to see the peak bloom of Himesayuri (Hime-sayuri) lilies, which are highlighted in the seasonal notice board near the entrance
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March-May): Wild strawberries available in May; hime-sayuri flowers bloom in late June.
Summer (June-August): Hime-sayuri flowers at peak bloom in June; seasonal tent sales run from April to November.
Autumn (September-November): Autumn foliage peaks in October; local sake tasting available year-round.
Winter (December-February): No seasonal events mentioned; facilities operate with reduced hours.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Tajima roadside station offers a small play area and stroller-friendly paths. Children enjoy the local food and seasonal activities. Educational displays on regional culture and nature enhance the experience. Facilities include accessible restrooms.
Food Lover Review
Tajima features a well-curated food hall with local specialties like award-winning sake from three breweries. Fresh produce and artisanal goods are available. The variety and quality of regional cuisine provide a rich culinary experience.
Car Camping Review
The station provides clean restrooms and vending machines. It offers a quiet, scenic spot with space for limited overnight parking. However, no formal overnight camping policy is stated, limiting its reliability for extended stays.
Scenic Beauty Review
Tajima overlooks the natural landscapes of southern Aizu with panoramic views of mountains and forests. Seasonal beauty shines with wildflowers in summer and autumn foliage. Scenic viewpoints offer excellent photo opportunities and peaceful atmosphere.