Station Shino-Oribe

Discover the Soul of Japanese Ceramics and Culinary Art

Shino-Oribe is a distinctive roadside station nestled along National Route 21, just three kilometers north of Togiku Interchange on the Chuo Expressway in Gifu Prefecture. Set in a region where centuries-old tea culture flourishes, it stands as a living tribute to the legendary Shino and Oribe pottery traditions born in the Azuchi-Momoyama era. The station is a vibrant gateway to the heritage of Mino ceramics, offering an exceptional collection of modern Mino pottery displayed and sold in the on-site Tōyūkan gallery.

Visitors are welcomed by the aroma of artisanal sweets and traditional dishes, including the celebrated Miva Set and Oribe Set from the mountain tea house Miva-ya, alongside delicate cream puffs from "Blue Bear" and hearty taiyaki from Roto-san-ya. With its thoughtfully curated shops, serene rest areas, and proximity to historic kiln sites, Shino-Oribe offers a rich sensory journey where craftsmanship, history, and regional flavor come together in perfect harmony.

Shino-Oribe is the only roadside station where you can experience the living legacy of Mino pottery in its birthplace. Home to the rare "Shino-ori" tea set, crafted using traditional techniques from the Azuchi-Momoyama era, and featuring authentic Mino pottery displayed in the on-site Tōyūkan gallery, this station offers a unique journey into Japan’s ceramic heritage. Indulge in the exclusive "Oribe-cha" set paired with handmade "Miwaya" tea bento, a culinary tribute to the region’s tea culture.

• Best Arrival Time: Visit by 9:30 AM on weekends to secure the day's first batch of fresh Miwaya savory rice bowls, which are sold out by 11:00 AM and not restocked.

• Hidden Gems: Head directly to the Tōyūkan (Ceramic Exhibition Hall) upon entry to view the limited-edition Shino-ori be ceramic set, only available for purchase during the summer months and not displayed in the main shop.

• Weekend Special: On Saturdays, the Aoi Kuma (Blue Bear) shop offers a special seasonal matcha cream puff from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM—only available on weekends and sold out by noon.

• Souvenir Strategy: Purchase the Oribe-style tea set (sold only at the Tōyūkan) in the morning, as it is the only ceramic set with a built-in tea strainer, and it sells out by 1:00 PM daily.

• Parking Tip: Use the two designated parking spots near the entrance (marked on the map) if you plan to visit the Genya-shiki Kiln Site within 10 minutes, as these are the closest spots to the exit gate.

• Food Timing: Order the Rotosan-ya large flat pancake at the Miwaya counter before 11:30 AM, as it is only made fresh in the morning and not available after 1:00 PM.

• EV Charging Access: Plug in at the EV charging station located near the main entrance between 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM to ensure your vehicle is charged during your visit, as the station is often reserved for extended use during peak hours.

Spring (March–May): Visit during late March to early April to see vibrant canola flowers in bloom near the roadside station.

Summer (June–August): Enjoy seasonal sweets like fresh strawberry and melon desserts from local vendors.

Autumn (September–November): Experience the harvest of chestnuts and sweet potatoes available at the market stalls.

Winter (December–February): Try traditional winter dishes such as mawashi zushi and warm sake at the tea house.