Discover the Heart of Gifu’s Natural and Cultural Heritage
Hakusan Cultural Village Nagataki is a scenic roadside station nestled along the pristine upper reaches of the Nagara River in Gifu Prefecture’s scenic Kiso region. Surrounded by lush forests and rolling farmland, this vibrant stop offers travelers a perfect blend of local culture, fresh mountain cuisine, and immersive nature experiences. Located just a 10-minute drive from Shirotori Interchange on the Hokuriku Expressway, it serves as an ideal retreat for those exploring the area’s rich history and untouched landscapes.
What sets this roadside station apart is its seamless integration of tradition and recreation. Visitors can sample regional specialties like mountain yam—renowned as the “king of wild vegetables”—and enjoy freshly grilled ayu fish, a local delicacy. The adjacent Ayu Park offers hands-on fishing and harvesting experiences, while the nearby Hakusan Cultural Museum preserves sacred artifacts from the area’s ancient Shugendo spiritual heritage. With seasonal events, scenic trails, and warm hospitality, Hakusan Cultural Village Nagataki invites travelers to slow down, savor the moment, and connect with the soul of Japan’s countryside.
Why Visit
Hakusan Cultural Village Nagataki stands out as the only roadside station where you can experience authentic ayu fishing and tasting at the Clearwater Ayu Park, nestled along the pristine upper reaches of the Nagara River. Here, visitors can catch and enjoy freshly grilled ayu, including the uniquely popular small ayu tempura—served whole with no bones, highlighting the fish’s delicate, slightly bitter flavor. Adjacent to the station, the White Mountain Cultural Museum houses the National Important Cultural Property, the wooden statue of the Buddha and Four Heavenly Kings, offering a rare glimpse into the region’s sacred history.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor fresh local flavors at Hakusan Cultural Village Nagataki, where seasonal ingredients meet traditional recipes in a serene riverside setting.
Rikagawa
里川
Specialty
Fresh Ayu fish dishes prepared in various ways
A restaurant located within the roadside station that offers a variety of dishes made with fresh ayu fish, known for its delicate flavor and seasonal availability. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, ideal for families and travelers seeking authentic local cuisine.
Shopping Highlights
Discover unique regional treasures and farm-fresh produce at Hakusan Cultural Village Nagataki’s vibrant marketplace.
Farmers Market
農産物コーナー
A fresh produce market offering locally grown vegetables and seasonal mountain vegetables.
Products
Must-Try Item
Wild Yam (Naturally Grown)
Local Specialty Store
お土産店
A shop selling regional souvenirs and local products, including packaged food items and crafts.
Products
Must-Try Item
Ayu Fish Dried Snack
Featured Products
Explore signature local specialties like mountain yam and premium ayu fish, crafted with care from the pristine waters of the Nagara River.
Wild Yam (Naturally Grown)
自然薯
A locally cultivated wild yam known for its sweetness, sticky texture, and rich flavor. Grown in the pristine waters of the Nagara River basin.
Dried Ayu Fish Snack
鮎の干物
A traditional snack made from dried ayu fish, preserving the delicate taste of the river fish.
Mountain Vegetable Assortment
山菜の詰め合わせ
A selection of seasonal mountain vegetables including fuki-no-to, warabi, and zenmai, harvested from the surrounding forests.
Ayu Fish Sake
鮎の酒
A unique regional sake infused with the essence of ayu fish, offering a distinctive taste of the Nagara River.
Facilities & Amenities
Enjoy comfortable amenities including restrooms, free Wi-Fi, EV charging, and a relaxed rest area at Hakusan Cultural Village Nagataki.
Parking Area
The roadside station has parking space for 3 large buses and 106 regular cars.
On-site
Restroom
The restroom includes 9 male toilets, 7 female toilets, 1 wheelchair-accessible toilet, and 1 ostomy-friendly toilet with a warm water washlet.
On-site
Free Wi-Fi
Free wireless LAN is available at the roadside station.
On-site
Information Center
The roadside station features an information center and tourist information office for visitors.
On-site
Play Area
The adjacent 'Shōryū Nagara River AYU Park' offers fishing and catching experiences, making it ideal for family visits and children's play.
Adjacent to the roadside station
EV Charging Station
Electric vehicle charging facilities are available at the roadside station.
On-site
Nursing Room
The station provides facilities for infants and young children, including baby care equipment.
On-site
Activities & Experiences
Immerse yourself in hands-on experiences from ayu fishing to seasonal workshops, all set amidst natural beauty and cultural heritage.
Amago Fishing Experience
鮎釣り体験
Participants can enjoy fishing for amago (sweetfish) in a dedicated fishing pond, learning about the local ecosystem and the importance of the Nagara River's clean waters.
Duration
60 min
Amago Catching Experience
魚つかみ体験
Participants can try catching amago (sweetfish) with their hands in a shallow stream, enjoying a fun and interactive way to connect with nature.
Duration
45 min
Amago Cooking Workshop
鮎料理体験
Participants will learn how to prepare traditional local dishes using fresh amago, including frying and grilling techniques, and enjoy their own cooked meal.
Duration
90 min
Mountain Vegetable Harvesting Experience
山菜採り体験
Participants can gather seasonal mountain vegetables such as fuki-no-to, warabi, and zenmai in the surrounding natural area, learning about their uses and ecological importance.
Duration
75 min
Wear sturdy shoes and bring rain gear as trails may be muddy.
Cultural Heritage Tour
白山文化博物館見学
Guided tour of the Hakusan Cultural Museum, where visitors can explore historical artifacts and learn about the region's spiritual heritage, including the sacred significance of Mount Hakusan.
Duration
60 min
River Walk and Nature Observation
清流長良川散策
Enjoy a peaceful walk along the pristine Nagara River, observing local wildlife and the natural beauty of the riverbank, ideal for relaxation and photography.
Duration
60 min
Best enjoyed during mild weather; avoid heavy rain or extreme heat.
Insider Tips
Visit on weekdays to avoid crowds, and don’t miss the nearby shrine and waterfall for a peaceful escape after exploring the roadside station.
- Best Arrival Time: Arrive by 9:30 AM on weekdays to secure the fresh batch of natural yam (also known as "mountain potato") sold at the agricultural counter, which often sells out by noon due to high demand from local shoppers.
- Hidden Gems: Visit the deli counter between 10:00 AM and 11:30 AM to find the limited-edition "small ayu tempura" (small ayu fried in batter), a seasonal specialty that is only available during the summer months and frequently sells out by midday.
- Weekend Special: On weekends, head to the "Rikawa" restaurant by 11:00 AM to order the "whole ayu deep-fried" (a dish made with small ayu where bones are specially prepared to be edible), as this menu item is often fully reserved by noon and not restocked.
- Best Photo Spot: Take a photo at the wooden bridge just before the entrance to the "Clearwater Nagara River Ayu Park" (located directly behind the roadside station) during golden hour (approximately 5:00–6:00 PM in summer) when sunlight reflects off the river and creates a stunning natural backdrop.
- Cultural Experience Tip: Enter the "Hakusan Cultural Museum" (located adjacent to the roadside station) before 3:00 PM to catch the 300-inch multi-screen presentation on the history of the Hakusan faith and the significance of the "Hakusan Taki Hōden" (a national important cultural property housing the wooden statue of Buddha and the Four Heavenly Kings), which is shown daily at 3:00 PM.
- Local Food Hack: Purchase the "Hakusan-style chicken stew" (a regional specialty known as "Chicken Chann") from the souvenir shop between 1:00 PM and 2:30 PM, as this is the time when the shop offers a discounted "lunch combo" with a small container of pickled vegetables and rice, available only until 3:00 PM.
- Family Activity Tip: If visiting with children, plan your visit to the "Clearwater Nagara River Ayu Park" (located on-site) for the 11:00 AM or 2:00 PM guided fishing and catching experience, as these sessions are specifically scheduled for families and include free safety gear and instruction.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March–May): Fresh mountain vegetables like fuki-no-to and yamabushitake are available at the roadside station, with natural yam harvests peaking in spring.
Summer (June–August): Enjoy ayu fishing and catching experiences at the Clear River Ayu Park, with grilled ayu dishes popular from June through August.
Autumn (September–November): Visit during autumn to enjoy the scenic red leaves along the Nagara River and savor seasonal ayu cuisine.
Winter (December–February): The roadside station remains open, offering warm meals and access to nearby hot springs like ManTen no Yu.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Offers a children's play area, fishing and catching experiences, and interactive learning about local culture. Features child-friendly food options and stroller-accessible facilities with restrooms and baby care equipment.
Food Lover Review
Features diverse local cuisine including fresh ayu fish dishes, regional specialties like chicken stew, and seasonal mountain vegetables. Offers high-quality produce and unique artisanal food items.
Car Camping Review
Provides ample parking, restrooms, and vending machines. Quiet surroundings during daytime, but lacks clear overnight parking policy and dedicated camping zones.
Scenic Beauty Review
Located along the pristine Nagara River with scenic views, seasonal landscapes, and photo-worthy spots like the nearby waterfall and forest trails. Offers serene natural beauty and aesthetic appeal.