Discover the Heart of Rural Japan at Oze Katashina
Nestled in the serene village of Katanoda within Gunma Prefecture’s lush countryside, Oze Katashina is more than a roadside station—it’s a vibrant gateway to authentic rural life. Surrounded by rolling farmland and forested hills, this welcoming hub celebrates local heritage through seasonal events, fresh farm-to-table cuisine, and community-driven experiences.
Visitors can savor regional specialties at the local eatery and mobile food trucks, explore the farm shop offering seasonal produce, unwind in the foot bath with panoramic views, or join lively festivals like the Autumn Harvest Festival. With its warm hospitality and deep connection to the land, Oze Katashina offers a true taste of Japan’s countryside charm.
Why Visit
Visit Oze Katashina to experience the region’s only roadside station where you can savor handcrafted udon made from locally grown rice flour and enjoy the annual Autumn Harvest Festival featuring a competitive udon eating contest. The station also hosts the unique "Yoshinonchi" food truck, serving seasonal dishes crafted from village-grown ingredients, all within a scenic setting overlooking the fertile fields of Katanashi Village.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor fresh, locally crafted meals at Oze Katashina roadside station.
Katashina Dining
かたしな食堂
Specialty
Local cuisine with seasonal ingredients
A cozy restaurant serving traditional regional dishes made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, perfect for enjoying authentic mountain village flavors.
Village Kitchen Mutsuya
村民キッチン「麺屋むつ葉」
Specialty
Handmade noodles with local broth
A casual food stall offering freshly made noodles in a rich, savory broth. The setting is simple and authentic, emphasizing the craftsmanship of handmade noodles.
Village Kitchen Ryokan Miyuki's Rice Shop
村民キッチン「旅館みゆきのごはんや」
Specialty
Homemade rice and side dishes
A small food stall offering simple, home-style meals centered around freshly cooked rice and seasonal side dishes. The atmosphere is rustic and intimate.
Yoshinonchi Kitchen Car
キッチンカー「よしのんち」
Specialty
Fusion street food with local ingredients
A mobile food truck offering creative fusion dishes using regional produce. The vibe is casual and energetic, ideal for quick, flavorful meals.
Hotaka-ya Kitchen Car
キッチンカー「ほたかや」
Specialty
Traditional mountain-style grilled dishes
A mobile kitchen serving grilled meats and vegetables using traditional mountain cooking methods. The atmosphere is lively and communal.
Houmi-tei Kitchen Car
キッチンカー「芳味亭」
Specialty
Local-style savory snacks and buns
A mobile food truck specializing in savory snacks and steamed buns made with regional ingredients. The style is traditional with a modern twist.
Shopping Highlights
Discover unique local goods and seasonal treats at Oze Katashina roadside station.
Farm Produce Direct Sales Store Katashina-ya Snack Corner
農産物直売所かたしな屋スナックコーナー
A direct sales shop offering fresh local produce, including fruits, vegetables, and seasonal harvests.
Products
Must-Try Item
Fresh mountain vegetables
Iwakura Bread Workshop
販売カー「岩鞍パン工房」
A mobile bakery specializing in handmade bread and pastries using local flour and ingredients.
Products
Must-Try Item
Iwakura Bread
Featured Products
Taste the region’s finest specialties, from mountain-grown produce to handcrafted snacks.
Oze Katashina Curry Powder
尾瀬かたしなカレーパウダー
Spicy curry powder made with local herbs and vegetables, perfect for cooking regional dishes at home.
Mountain Vegetable Dried Mix
山菜乾物ミックス
A blend of dried wild mountain vegetables, ideal for soups and stews.
Katashina Rice Cake
かたしな餅
Traditional rice cake made with locally grown rice, perfect for snacks or gifts.
Iwakura Bread Crumbs
岩鞍パンのパン粉
Crushed bread from Iwakura Bread Workshop, ideal for coating and baking.
Facilities & Amenities
Relax and enjoy nature with foot baths, scenic views, and cozy gathering spaces.
Information Center
The roadside station provides information and assistance to visitors, including event schedules, local attractions, and directions.
Main entrance area
Restroom
Clean and accessible restrooms are available for visitors.
Near the main entrance and inside the facility complex
Parking
Ample parking space is available for cars and bicycles.
Front and side of the roadside station
Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the roadside station for visitors.
All areas including indoor spaces and outdoor seating
Play Area
A designated play area for children, located near the outdoor plaza.
Near the 813 hiroba (community space)
Foot Bath & View Terrace
A relaxing foot bath with a scenic view terrace, ideal for unwinding after a journey.
Outdoor area near the main plaza
EV Charging Station
Electric vehicle charging station available for visitors using electric cars.
Near the parking area
ATM
An automated teller machine is available for cash withdrawals.
Near the entrance and information center
Nursing Room
A private room equipped for breastfeeding and baby care.
Inside the main building, near restrooms
Bike Rental
Bicycles can be rented on-site for exploring the surrounding area.
Near the parking area
Pet Area
A designated area for pets to rest and relieve themselves, with waste disposal facilities.
Near the entrance and outdoor plaza
Activities & Experiences
Join seasonal festivals, hands-on workshops, and lively community events.
Udon Eating Contest
うどん大食い
Participants will compete to eat as much udon as possible in a timed event during the autumn harvest festival.
Duration
60 min
Autumn Harvest Celebration Festival
秋の収穫感謝祭
Join a seasonal festival celebrating the autumn harvest with local food, live activities, and community events.
Duration
480 min
Local Food Truck Experience
キッチンカー「よしのんち」
Enjoy fresh food from a mobile kitchen truck offering local specialties and seasonal dishes.
Duration
90 min
Outdoor activity; may be affected by rain
Bakery Truck Experience
販売カー「岩鞍パン工房」
Sample and purchase freshly baked goods from a mobile bakery truck featuring local bread and pastries.
Duration
60 min
Outdoor activity; may be affected by rain
Local Cuisine Dining Experience
かたしな食堂
Enjoy authentic local cuisine prepared with seasonal ingredients at a community-style dining space.
Duration
120 min
Community Kitchen Dining Experience
村民キッチン
Participate in a communal dining experience featuring home-style meals prepared by local residents.
Duration
120 min
Hot Spring Foot Bath
足湯
Relax and soothe tired feet in a natural hot spring foot bath with scenic views.
Duration
30 min
Outdoor; may be closed during heavy rain
Scenic View Terrace
展望テラス
Enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding countryside from a peaceful outdoor terrace.
Duration
60 min
Outdoor; weather-dependent
Community Plaza Gathering
813ひろば
Join local events, cultural activities, and community gatherings at a vibrant public plaza.
Duration
120 min
Outdoor; may be moved indoors in bad weather
Insider Tips
Plan visits around event days for the best local flavors and lively experiences.
- Best Arrival Time: Visit between 9:00 AM and 10:00 AM on November 1st or 3rd to secure a seat at the kitchen truck "Yoshinonchi" during the "Yoshinonchi" kitchen truck event, as it opens around noon and often fills quickly.
- Hidden Gems: Check the "Kata-shina House Snack Corner" in the agricultural products direct sales store for seasonal local specialties like fresh apple jam and dried mountain vegetables, which are only available during the autumn harvest period.
- Weekend Special: On November 8th, attend the "Oze Katashina Autumn Harvest Thanksgiving Festival" to experience the "udon eating contest" and sample free local udon noodles at the event venue.
- Best Time to Try Local Bread: Arrive by 10:30 AM on November 1st, 3rd, or during the "Yakudani Pan Kōbō" mobile vendor event to get the first batch of fresh-baked milk bread, which sells out by 11:30 AM.
- Unique Local Experience: Visit the foot bath and viewing terrace before 4:00 PM on weekdays to enjoy the best views of the surrounding farmland and forest during the golden hour light.
- Must-Try Food: Order the "Kata-shina Shokudō" curry on Fridays, as it is served only on Fridays during the "Curry Fair" and features locally grown vegetables and handmade curry paste.
- Special Event Tip: Participate in the "Tone-numa Apple Kingdom Stamp Rally" by collecting stamps at the roadside station's information desk and the "Kata-shina House" counter to receive a free seasonal apple pie.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March-May): Fresh bamboo shoots available at the market in early spring; canola flowers bloom in late March to April.
Summer (June-August): No specific seasonal events or products mentioned in the content.
Autumn (September-November): Autumn harvest celebration on November 8 features udon eating contests and seasonal produce.
Winter (December-February): No seasonal events or products listed; closed on some days in winter.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Offers a play area, children's activities, and stroller-friendly paths. Features kid-friendly food options and interactive farm experiences. Safe, accessible layout with restrooms and shaded seating.
Food Lover Review
Features diverse dining options including local specialties like udon and regional curry. Offers fresh produce from the farmers market and artisanal products like handmade bread and seasonal snacks.
Car Camping Review
Provides restrooms and vending machines. Quiet and peaceful environment with limited overnight parking. No clear policy on extended stays, but suitable for short overnight stops.
Scenic Beauty Review
Located in a scenic rural area with views of nature and seasonal landscapes. Offers a panoramic view from the terrace. Photo opportunities abound with changing seasons and open fields.