Discover Serenity in Japan’s Most Beautiful Village
Mase Miki no Sato is a tranquil roadside station nestled in the heart of the mountainous village of Mase, nestled within the renowned "Japan’s Most Beautiful Villages" network in Gifu Prefecture. Perched above the serene Mase River, this scenic stop offers visitors a rare escape into untouched nature, where lush forests, clear streams, and starlit skies create a sanctuary for the soul.
More than just a pit stop, Mase Miki no Sato is a gateway to immersive experiences—forest bathing along wooden-chip trails, peaceful fishing by the river, and relaxing in natural hot springs. The station features a cozy information center, local crafts, seasonal produce, and easy access to nearby wellness destinations like the Mase River Foot Bath and the renowned Mase River Onsen. It’s a place where nature, culture, and quiet renewal come together.
Why Visit
Mase Miki no Sato stands out as the only roadside station in the region where visitors can savor freshly caught wild ayu (sweetfish) grilled to perfection on-site, using fish harvested daily from the pristine Maize River. Home to the only on-site ayu grilling station in the area, it offers an authentic taste of mountain stream life. Complementing this, the station features a rare, high-alkaline mineral water tap drawn directly from the Maize River, renowned for its therapeutic properties and said to enhance skin clarity—making it a unique wellness experience found nowhere else.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor authentic local flavors at Mase Miki no Sato, where mountain-fresh ingredients meet traditional Hida cuisine.
Maki no Sato Dining
美輝の里食堂
Specialty
Traditional Hida cuisine with local ingredients
A cozy dining space offering authentic Hida-style meals using fresh local produce, including wild ayu fish and Hida beef. The atmosphere is warm and rustic, perfect for enjoying regional flavors in a serene mountain setting.
Sakura Mei Tō Coffee
桜梅桃李
Specialty
Artisan coffee and seasonal pastries
A charming café offering handcrafted coffee and seasonal baked goods made with local ingredients. The ambiance is peaceful and inviting, ideal for a quiet break amidst nature.
River View Food Stall
水辺の館
Specialty
Quick mountain-style snacks and drinks
A casual food stall located by the river, offering light meals and refreshments for visitors enjoying the natural surroundings. The setting is simple and lively, perfect for a quick bite during a walk.
Shopping Highlights
Discover unique crafts and regional goods at Mase Miki no Sato, crafted with care and rooted in local heritage.
Local Farmers Market
地元農産物市場
A market showcasing fresh seasonal produce and locally grown vegetables from the surrounding mountains and fields.
Products
Must-Try Item
Fresh Wild Ayu Fish
Hida Specialty Store
飛騨特産品店
A specialty shop offering a variety of regional souvenirs, including traditional crafts and local food products.
Products
Must-Try Item
Hida Beef Jerky
Natural Hot Spring Products
温泉グッズ専門店
A shop selling bath and wellness products inspired by the natural hot spring experience.
Products
Must-Try Item
Hot Spring Bath Salt
Featured Products
Experience signature specialties like wild ayu trout and Hida beef, celebrating the rich taste of the mountain region.
Hida Beef Jerky
飛騨牛のたれ焼き
Dried and seasoned beef made from premium Hida beef, perfect for snacking or gifting.
Wild Ayu Fish Dried
天然鮎の干物
Dried ayu fish caught in the pristine waters of the Mase River, known for its delicate flavor.
Hot Spring Bath Salt
温泉風呂の塩
Natural bath salt infused with minerals from the Mase River hot spring, ideal for relaxation and skin care.
Mase River Herbal Tea
馬瀬川ハーブティー
A blend of wild herbs gathered from the Mase River valley, offering a refreshing and soothing tea experience.
Hida Forest Honey
飛騨の森ハチミツ
Pure honey harvested from wildflowers in the Hida forests, with a rich, natural taste.
Facilities & Amenities
Relax and recharge at Mase Miki no Sato with hot springs, foot baths, and serene rest areas nestled in nature.
Parking Area
The roadside station has parking for up to 49 standard-sized vehicles.
On-site
Restrooms
There are 6 male toilets and 5 female toilets available. The facility includes a ramp for accessibility.
On-site
Free Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi is available for visitors at the roadside station.
On-site
Information Center
The information center operates from 8:00 to 17:00 and provides visitor information and guidance.
On-site
Heart Forest Park
A forest bathing park with wooden chip walking paths, ideal for relaxation and enjoying nature.
Within the Miki no Sato area
Spa Miki no Sato (Hot Spring Facility)
A hot spring facility featuring 17 different types of baths, including an open-air bath with views of the mountains and stars, and a steam bath. The spring water is high in alkalinity and known for its skin-friendly properties.
Approximately 10 minutes on foot from the roadside station
EV Charging Station
An electric vehicle charging station is available on-site.
On-site
Pet-Friendly Area
The area allows pets, and there is a foot bath facility suitable for pets and visitors.
Near the foot bath
Activities & Experiences
Engage in seasonal workshops and immersive experiences, from fishing to forest bathing in pristine surroundings.
Forest Bathing Walk
心林公園
Walk along wooden chip paths in the forest to enjoy forest bathing and connect with nature.
Duration
60 min
Fishing at Maize River
フィッシングセンター水辺の館
Enjoy fishing in the clear waters of the Maize River, known for its abundant wild ayu (sweetfish).
Duration
120 min
Best during clear, cool weather; avoid heavy rain.
Hot Spring Soaking
スパー美輝
Relax in natural hot springs with high alkaline mineral content, enjoying views of mountains and stars.
Duration
90 min
Indoor and outdoor baths available regardless of weather.
Foot Bath
美輝の足湯
Soak your feet in a natural foot bath located near the roadside station, perfect for relaxing after a walk.
Duration
30 min
Summer Workshop Series
夏休みワークショップ
Participate in seasonal hands-on activities during summer vacation, including crafts and nature-based learning.
Duration
120 min
Activities may be moved indoors if weather is poor.
Insider Tips
Visit during off-peak hours for a peaceful stay and explore hidden trails near the riverside for breathtaking views.
- Best Arrival Time: Visit between 9:00–10:00 AM on weekdays to secure a seat at the café counter, as the morning batch of freshly baked milk bread is released at 9:00 AM and often sells out by 10:30 AM.
- Hidden Gems: At the deli counter, look for the limited-edition "Mase Miki no Sato" seasonal pickled vegetables—available only from late August to early October and made with locally grown heirloom cucumbers and daikon.
- Weekend Special: On weekends, visit the outdoor food truck "Sakura Mei Tōri" from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM, located near the information booth, where they serve handmade soba noodles with local mountain vegetable tempura.
- Best Time for the Foot Bath: Visit the free foot bath at 4:00 PM on weekdays to avoid crowds, as it fills up quickly during peak hours and is only open from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
- Insider Access to the Information Booth: Ask staff at the information desk for the free "Mase Miki no Sato Nature Walk Guide" booklet, which includes a marked route to the lesser-known "Heart Forest Trail" that leads to a hidden viewpoint overlooking the Maize River.
- EV Charging Tip: Use the EV charging station only during off-peak hours (before 10:00 AM or after 4:00 PM) to avoid long wait times, as the station is frequently occupied during midday and late afternoon.
- Specialty Purchase: Buy the "Maize River Salmon Roe Bento" at the shop counter between 11:30 AM and 1:30 PM—this lunch box is only available during the summer salmon run (July to September) and includes fresh river salmon roe and rice made with local mountain water.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March–May): Fresh bamboo shoots available at the roadside station in April; cherry blossoms peak in early April.
Summer (June–August): Prime season for catching wild ayu fish from June to August; evening events feature local cuisine.
Autumn (September–November): Best time for hiking in heart-shaped forests; autumn foliage peaks in late October.
Winter (December–February): Hot spring baths enjoyed with snow-covered views; foot baths open daily through January.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Features include a wooden chip walking path, a fishing center, and a foot bath, offering engaging outdoor activities for children. The location is stroller-friendly with accessible restrooms and ample parking, supporting family visits.
Food Lover Review
Offers local specialties such as wild ayu fish and Hida beef, with multiple dining options including a tea house and casual eatery. Fresh regional produce and seasonal menus enhance the culinary experience.
Car Camping Review
Provides basic facilities like restrooms, vending machines, and EV charging. The quiet forest setting allows for comfortable overnight stays, though overnight parking is not explicitly confirmed.
Scenic Beauty Review
Surrounded by pristine natural scenery with views of the Mase River and mountain landscapes. Offers excellent photo opportunities and seasonal beauty, especially during green seasons and stargazing nights.