Discover the Heart of the Kiso Road
Nestled at the border of Mino and Kiso regions along National Route 19, Shitamo is more than a roadside station—it’s a gateway to centuries of history, culture, and natural beauty. Located near the Chūō Expressway’s Nakatsugawa IC, it serves as a welcoming entrance to the scenic Kiso Road, where clear rivers, pristine air, and lush greenery define the landscape.
What sets Shitamo apart is its deep connection to local heritage. Visitors can savor authentic regional dishes like gohei mochi and imo yako mochi, shop for handmade treats such as rice cake made with traditional mortar and seasonal specialties like chestnut daifuku, and explore the nearby historic towns of Magome and Tsumago. With its art gallery featuring works by renowned painter Tōgai Higashiyama and access to timeless Edo-era streetscapes, Shitamo offers a journey through time and taste.
Why Visit
Visit Shitamo, the gateway to the historic Kiso Road, where you can savor the region’s only gohei mochi—a chewy rice cake made with local barley flour and served with a rich, house-blended soy-based sauce. Nearby, the Echizen Art Museum houses rare original prints by master painter Tōya Kōei, whose works capture the spirit of the Kiso Valley. This is the only roadside station where you can experience both the art and culinary heritage of the area in one visit.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor authentic local flavors at Shitamo roadside station, where fresh ingredients from the region create hearty, traditional meals.
Kisogohé Shop
木曽ごへー本舗
Specialty
Local specialty food featuring the famous 'gohe mochi' and regional dishes
A restaurant specializing in traditional local cuisine from the Kiso region, offering a variety of authentic dishes that reflect the area's culinary heritage. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, perfect for travelers seeking an authentic taste of the region.
Ofukuro Workshop
おふくろ工房
Specialty
Handcrafted traditional sweets made in-house
A specialty food stall offering handmade confections using traditional methods. The atmosphere is cozy and nostalgic, emphasizing craftsmanship and local heritage.
Tao Ya Kisoji
TAOYA 木曽路
Specialty
Relaxing tea and light refreshments with scenic views
A cozy café offering light meals and beverages in a serene setting. The atmosphere is peaceful and ideal for a relaxing break during a journey.
Shopping Highlights
Discover unique regional treasures and handmade goods at Shitamo’s well-curated retail spaces.
Local Produce Market
農産物直売
A market selling fresh, locally grown vegetables and agricultural products directly from regional farmers.
Products
Must-Try Item
Morning-harvested Fresh Vegetables
O-Fukuro Workshop
おふくろ工房
A retail shop specializing in handmade traditional sweets and local delicacies.
Products
Must-Try Item
Mortar-Beaten Daifuku Mochi
Kiso Region Souvenir Shop
木曽路のお土産
A general souvenir shop offering regionally themed gifts and local specialties.
Products
Must-Try Item
Kuri Kin Ton Daifuku
Featured Products
Taste signature specialties like gohei mochi and handcrafted daifuku, celebrating the rich culinary heritage of the area.
Pickled Vegetables
漬物
Traditional pickled vegetables made using local recipes and seasonal produce.
Chestnut Kin Ton Daifuku
栗きんとん大福
A sweet rice cake filled with chestnut paste, a seasonal favorite.
Hōba Roll
ほうば巻き
A traditional roll made with fresh hōba leaves and sweet filling.
Gohe Mochi Sauce
ごへーもちのたれ
A signature sauce used to enhance the flavor of gohe mochi, available for home use.
Karasumi
からすみ
Dried and fermented fish roe, a regional delicacy with a strong umami flavor.
Soba Manju
そばまんじゅう
Steamed bun made with locally sourced buckwheat flour, a regional specialty.
Facilities & Amenities
Enjoy convenient amenities including spacious parking, accessible restrooms, and a quiet rest area for travelers.
Parking Lot
Available 24 hours. Accommodates 12 large vehicles and 46 standard vehicles, including 2 designated accessible parking spaces with roofs.
Near the main entrance of the roadside station
Restroom
Available 24 hours. Includes 6 male toilets (4 small, 1 Western-style, 1 Japanese-style), 9 female toilets (8 Western-style, 1 Japanese-style), and 1 multi-purpose room equipped with a foldable multi-purpose seat.
Inside the roadside station building
Nursing Room
Operates from 9:00 to 17:00. Equipped with a table and a sofa for mother and baby use.
Inside the roadside station building
Information Center
Provides tourism information about the Kiso Road, local products, and nearby attractions such as Magome and Tsumago post towns. Also features an exhibition of works by artist Toyo Ito.
Inside the roadside station building
EV Charging Station
Electric vehicle charging facility available for visitors.
Near the parking area
ATM
Public ATM available for cash withdrawals.
Near the information center
Play Area
A space for children to play, located within the roadside station premises.
Near the outdoor seating area
Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi access available throughout the roadside station.
Throughout the facility
Onsen
Hot spring facility named TAOYA Kisoji located nearby, accessible via short drive.
Nearby at TAOYA Kisoji
Pet Area
Designated area for pets, allowing visitors to walk their animals comfortably.
Outside the main building
Insider Tips
Visit during off-peak hours for a peaceful stroll and take advantage of local insights to make the most of your journey.
- Best Arrival Time: Arrive by 9:30 AM on weekends to secure the day's fresh batch of gohei mochi from the Kisogohei Honpo stall, which sells out quickly and is not restocked during the day
- Hidden Gems: Visit the O Fukuro Kobo counter to sample or purchase katsuobushi (dried bonito) and kiri kintan (a seasonal sweet made with chestnut paste and mochi), both made in-house and only available at Shitamo
- Weekend Special: On Saturdays and Sundays, the Farmers' Market stalls open at 9:00 AM and feature freshly harvested vegetables from the Yamaguchi Agricultural Direct Sales Association, including seasonal root vegetables and mountain greens not found in other shops
- Must-Try Food: Order the Zaru Soba with the special gohei mochi sauce at the restaurant—it's a local signature dish only available at Shitamo and not sold in the gift shop
- Cultural Insight: Stop by the Higashi Yamaguchi Takamori: Journey of the Heart Museum between 10:00 AM and 12:00 PM to view the full collection of original woodblock prints by the renowned artist Takamori Higashi Yamaguchi, displayed in chronological order
- Pro Tip for Families: Use the designated nursing room (open 9:00 AM–5:00 PM) to feed your child and then take a short walk to the adjacent rest area with picnic tables for a quiet break—ideal for families with young children
- Best Time to Shop: Visit the gift shop between 4:00 PM and 5:30 PM on weekdays to purchase the limited-edition seasonal Houba Maki* (bamboo-wrapped rice cake), which is only available in the afternoon and often sells out by 6:00 PM
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March-May): Fresh bamboo shoots available at the market from late March, with peak canola flower viewing in April.
Summer (June-August): Fresh mountain vegetables and seasonal soft serve sold daily; ideal for hiking in the cool forest air.
Autumn (September-November): Chestnut harvest season features seasonal "kuri kin-toan daifuku" and scenic views of autumn foliage.
Winter (December-February): Limited market offerings; visit for the quiet atmosphere and nearby historic towns.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Offers a nursing room, stroller-friendly paths, and a quiet environment. While no dedicated play area is mentioned, the nearby historic towns and natural scenery provide engaging experiences for children. The presence of family-friendly food options like soft cream and savory snacks adds to the appeal.
Food Lover Review
Features a variety of local dishes including regional specialties like gohei mochi and imoyako mochi. Fresh produce from the local farmers' market is available, and the on-site restaurant offers authentic, high-quality meals. The online shop and unique condiments further enhance the food experience.
Car Camping Review
Provides ample parking for cars and large vehicles, with 24-hour access and clean restrooms. However, no official overnight parking policy is stated, and the area lacks dedicated quiet zones or camping facilities. Limited facilities for extended stays reduce its suitability for car camping.
Scenic Beauty Review
Located at the border of Mino and Kiso, it offers scenic views of clear streams, lush greenery, and surrounding mountains. The nearby historic towns of Magome and Tsumago add cultural charm. The surrounding natural landscape and seasonal beauty contribute to a serene and visually appealing atmosphere.