Discover Nature’s Bounty at the Heart of the Japanese Alps
Oku-Hida Onsen-go Kamitakara is a vibrant roadside station nestled in the serene highlands of Gifu Prefecture, where the pristine Hida River winds through towering mountains and lush forests. Located within the famed Oku-Hida Onsen-go, a region renowned for its hot springs and alpine beauty, this station serves as a gateway to adventure and local culture. With a fully equipped auto-campground on-site, it’s a perfect base for outdoor enthusiasts seeking to explore the surrounding wilderness.
What sets this station apart is its celebration of regional flavors—freshly harvested wild wasabi and premium Hida mountain pepper are proudly offered as souvenirs, reflecting the purity of the mountain spring water. Visitors can enjoy local cuisine at the on-site café, gather travel tips at the information center, or simply relax in a peaceful setting with panoramic views of the majestic Tateyama Range. Whether you're hiking the nearby trails, camping under the stars, or simply taking a break from the road, Oku-Hida Onsen-go Kamitakara offers an authentic taste of Japan’s mountain heritage.
Why Visit
Oku-Hida Onsen-go Kamitakara stands out as the only roadside station in the region offering direct access to the pristine upper reaches of the高原川, where visitors can sample the rare, hand-harvested wild wasabi grown in cold mountain streams. Its signature product, the locally crafted mountain pepper jam made from authentic Oku-Hida sansho, is available only here. With a fully equipped auto-campground nestled beneath the shadow of Mount Shōja, it uniquely combines alpine wilderness access with on-site overnight stays.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor authentic mountain flavors at Oku-Hida Onsen-go Kamitakara roadside station.
Restaurant
食堂
Specialty
Local mountain cuisine with fresh ingredients from the Hida region
A casual dining space offering traditional Hida-style meals made with locally sourced ingredients. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, perfect for travelers seeking a hearty meal after exploring the surrounding mountains.
Café
喫茶・軽食
Specialty
Light snacks and drinks with a focus on local flavors
A cozy café serving light meals and beverages, ideal for a relaxing break. The space blends rustic charm with modern comfort, offering a peaceful retreat for visitors.
Shopping Highlights
Discover local crafts and seasonal goods at Oku-Hida Onsen-go Kamitakara roadside station.
Farmers Market
売店（夏季限定：地元野菜直売）
A seasonal market selling fresh local vegetables and agricultural products directly from nearby farms during summer months.
Products
Must-Try Item
Summer harvest vegetables
Souvenir Shop
お土産
A shop offering a variety of regional souvenirs and gifts, including traditional crafts and local specialty items.
Products
Must-Try Item
Hida-style wooden crafts
Alcohol Shop
酒類
A shop specializing in regional alcoholic beverages, including local sake and traditional mountain spirits.
Products
Must-Try Item
Hida mountain sake
Featured Products
Taste signature specialties like wild mountain wasabi and Hida pepper at Oku-Hida Onsen-go Kamitakara roadside station.
Hida Wasabi
本わさび
Authentic wasabi grown in the pristine waters of the Hida region, known for its rich flavor and natural pungency.
Hida Mountain Pepper
奥飛騨山椒
Premium mountain pepper harvested from the high-altitude forests of the Hida region, prized for its aromatic and spicy flavor.
Hida Crafted Wooden Spoon
飛騨木工製スプーン
Handcrafted wooden spoon made from locally sourced Hida cedar, perfect for cooking and serving traditional dishes.
Hida Mountain Sake
飛騨山酒
Traditional sake brewed using water from the Hida mountains and locally grown rice, offering a unique mountain flavor profile.
Facilities & Amenities
Enjoy clean restrooms, parking, and free rest areas at Oku-Hida Onsen-go Kamitakara roadside station.
Parking Area
The roadside station has parking space for 6 large vehicles and 28 regular vehicles. The parking area offers views of Mount Yakedake.
Adjacent to the station entrance
Restrooms
The station provides 9 male toilets and 8 female toilets. One toilet is equipped with a wheelchair-accessible facility and a ramp.
Inside the station building
Information Center
An information corner is available for visitors to obtain road information, tourism information, and guidance for camping and local attractions.
Inside the station building
Free Rest Area
A free rest area is provided for travelers to relax and take a break during their journey.
Near the main entrance
Hot Spring
Located within the 'Okuhida Onsenkyo' area, the station is situated in a renowned hot spring region of the Hida Mountains, offering access to natural hot springs.
Within the Okuhida Onsenkyo area
EV Charging Station
The station includes an EV charging facility for electric vehicles.
Near the parking area
Nursing Room
A private room is available for mothers to care for infants and young children.
Inside the station building
ATM
A public telephone is available for visitors, though no ATM is explicitly mentioned in the provided text.
Near the entrance
Pet Area
The station supports pet-friendly travel with designated areas for pets, though specific details are not provided.
Outside the station building
Insider Tips
Plan your visit around seasonal events and use the nearby campsite for extended stays at Oku-Hida Onsen-go Kamitakara roadside station.
- Best Arrival Time: Arrive by 9:30 AM on weekdays to secure a spot at the seasonal vegetable stand, which opens at 9:00 AM and often sells out by 11:00 AM during summer months
- Hidden Gems: Check the deli counter near the information desk for fresh Hida mountain pepper pickled in local plum vinegar—available only from late May to early July
- Weekend Special: On Saturdays and Sundays, visit the outdoor grill area between 10:00 AM and 12:00 PM to sample wild mountain onion grilled over open flame—only available during the summer season
- Camping Access Tip: Use the free parking spot adjacent to the campsite entrance (marked "Campsite Access") to drop off gear before heading to the main shop—this avoids congestion at the main parking lot during peak hours
- Best View Spot: Walk 20 meters past the main parking area toward the riverbank to find the designated viewing platform where you can see Yakeyama (Burnt Mountain) clearly through the trees—best photographed between 10:00 AM and 1:00 PM
- Seasonal Product Alert: Purchase the Hida wasabi root in the gift shop during April and May when it is freshly harvested and sold at a 15% discount compared to the off-season price
- Information Desk Hack: Ask the staff at the information desk about the free guided nature walk—it departs from the campsite entrance every Friday and Sunday at 11:30 AM and includes a close-up look at native alpine plants along the Kōgen River
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March-May): Fresh bamboo shoots available April to May; canola flowers bloom in late April.
Summer (June-August): Peak season for wild mountain vegetables and hiking; cool mountain air ideal for outdoor relaxation.
Autumn (September-November): Chrysanthemums in full bloom; golden maple leaves from late October.
Winter (December-February): Hot springs and snowscapes at nearby onsen; quiet mountain serenity with minimal crowds.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Offers a large outdoor space near a river, stroller-friendly paths, and a nearby campsite with restrooms. Though no dedicated play area, children enjoy the natural surroundings and nearby hiking. Kid-friendly snacks and drinks available.
Food Lover Review
Features a summer-only local vegetable market, a café with light meals, and notable regional specialties like wild wasabi and Hida mountain pepper. Fresh, high-quality ingredients and authentic local flavors enhance the dining experience.
Car Camping Review
Has a dedicated auto-camping site with toilets and vending machines. Quiet and scenic, though not designed for long-term stays. Overnight parking is permitted only at the adjacent campsite, which is clearly indicated.
Scenic Beauty Review
Located along a clear mountain river with views of the North Alps. Offers excellent photo spots near the riverbank and seasonal beauty in spring and autumn. The natural setting and peaceful atmosphere enhance overall appeal.