Discover the Heart of Minakami’s Natural Bounty
Minakami Mizuki-kougukan is a vibrant roadside station nestled in the lush, mountainous embrace of Minakami, a town renowned for its pristine rivers, lush forests, and rich agricultural heritage. Located just off the main highway, it serves as a welcoming gateway for travelers seeking authentic experiences rooted in nature and local tradition.
More than a pit stop, this roadside station celebrates the region’s unique identity through seasonal farm-fresh produce, handcrafted goods, and regional delicacies like wild mountain vegetables and locally sourced rice. Visitors can savor a warm meal at the on-site café, explore a curated market of artisanal products, or simply relax in the tranquil garden space. With its thoughtful design and deep connection to the land, Minakami Mizuki-kougukan offers a true taste of rural Japan’s enduring charm.
Why Visit
Minakami Mizuki-kougukan stands out as the only roadside station in the region offering handcrafted rice crackers made from locally grown Koshihikari rice, aged in cedar barrels for a distinctive earthy flavor. Visitors can also sample the exclusive "Yamabuki" milk ice cream, produced daily from fresh Jersey cow milk sourced from nearby farms. The station’s rooftop garden provides panoramic views of the Tone River valley, a rare vantage point accessible only here.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor authentic regional flavors at Minakami Mizuki-kougukan roadside station.
Minakami Mountain View Restaurant
みなかみ山展望レストラン
Specialty
Traditional Japanese mountain cuisine with local ingredients
A cozy dining experience offering authentic Japanese mountain-style meals, featuring seasonal ingredients sourced from the surrounding region. The atmosphere is warm and rustic, with views of the surrounding mountains.
Forest Bakery Café
森のパン屋カフェ
Specialty
Artisan bread and pastries made with local flour and natural ingredients
A charming café nestled in a forested area, offering freshly baked bread, pastries, and light meals. The ambiance is peaceful and serene, perfect for a relaxing break.
Local Delights Food Stall
地元グルメ屋台
Specialty
Quick street-style snacks made with regional ingredients
A vibrant food stall offering fast, delicious snacks made with fresh, local produce. Perfect for a quick bite while exploring the roadside station.
Shopping Highlights
Discover local crafts and seasonal goods at Minakami Mizuki-kougukan roadside station.
Local Farmers Market
地元農産物市場
A market featuring fresh, seasonal produce grown by local farmers in the Minakami region.
Products
Must-Try Item
Wild Mountain Greens
Craft & Souvenir Shop
工芸品とお土産屋
A shop offering handmade crafts and unique souvenirs from the Minakami area.
Products
Must-Try Item
Hand-carved Wooden Spoon
Local Dairy & Meat Market
地元乳製品・肉市場
A specialty market selling locally raised meat and dairy products, including fresh milk, cheese, and sausages.
Products
Must-Try Item
Minakami Beef Sausage
Alcohol & Specialty Drinks Shop
お酒・特産ドリンク
A shop specializing in local alcoholic beverages and specialty drinks, including craft sake and herbal liqueurs.
Products
Must-Try Item
Yamabuki Sake
Featured Products
Taste signature specialties and fresh local produce at Minakami Mizuki-kougukan roadside station.
Mountain Herb Tea
山のハーブティー
A blend of wild mountain herbs collected from the Minakami region, known for its calming and refreshing taste.
Wild Mushroom Dried Mix
山のきのこ乾燥ミックス
A premium mix of dried wild mushrooms harvested from the local forests, perfect for soups and stews.
Minakami Soba Flour
みなかみそば粉
High-quality buckwheat flour made from locally grown soba, ideal for making authentic homemade soba noodles.
Forest Honey
森のハチミツ
Pure, raw honey collected from wildflowers in the Minakami forest, known for its rich, floral flavor.
Sake-Infused Soy Sauce
日本酒漬け醤油
A unique soy sauce infused with local craft sake, offering a deep umami flavor with a subtle sweetness.
Insider Tips
Unlock hidden gems and local insights for a richer visit to Minakami Mizuki-kougukan roadside station.
- Best Arrival Time: Arrive by 9:30 AM on weekends to secure a seat at the Mochi & Matcha Café, which opens at 9:00 AM and often fills up by 10:30 AM due to the popular matcha taiyaki and seasonal mochi offerings
- Hidden Gems: Visit the back corner of the food hall to find the limited-edition Minakami Mountain Mushroom Ramen, available only on Wednesdays and Fridays from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM
- Weekend Special: On Saturdays, visit the outdoor market near the parking lot between 10:00 AM and 12:00 PM to sample free samples of the seasonal yuzu-infused plum jam made by local farmers
- Souvenir Shortcut: Purchase the Minakami Forest Herbal Tea Set (sold at the gift counter) before 11:00 AM to guarantee availability, as it sells out by noon on weekends
- Best Photo Spot: Stand at the edge of the wooden deck near the "Mizuki-kougukan" sign at 4:00 PM on weekdays to capture the golden-hour sunlight reflecting off the nearby river and the station’s red-tiled roof
- Dining Hack: Order the "Mizuki Special Set" at the restaurant counter before 12:00 PM to get a free side of pickled mountain vegetables, a daily offer only available during lunch hours
- Parking Tip: Use the designated "Mochi Festival Parking" zone (located behind the main building) on weekends to avoid the overflow parking, which is only open during peak hours from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March–May): Canola flowers bloom in late March to April, and fresh bamboo shoots are available at the market from April.
Summer (June–August): Fresh watermelon and seasonal fruits are harvested from July through August.
Autumn (September–November): Chestnuts and persimmons are harvested in October, with the roadside station hosting autumn harvest events.
Winter (December–February): Hot spring foot baths and seasonal hot meals are available, with the station open year-round.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Offers a dedicated children's play area, stroller-friendly paths, and family restrooms. Features interactive local craft activities and kid-friendly meals like udon and rice balls.
Food Lover Review
Features multiple restaurants with regional specialties like hot spring tofu and mountain vegetables. Farmers market offers fresh local produce and artisanal honey.
Car Camping Review
Provides clean restrooms, vending machines, and a designated parking area. Quiet surroundings during evenings, though no formal overnight camping policy is stated.
Scenic Beauty Review
Overlooks the Tone River with mountain views and seasonal foliage. Offers scenic viewpoints and well-maintained gardens ideal for photography year-round.