Discover the Heart of Eastern Hiroshima at Saijo Nonta no Sakagura
Nestled along National Route 2 near Saijo Bypass in Higashihiroshima, Saijo Nonta no Sakagura is more than a roadside station—it’s a vibrant cultural gateway where people, place, produce, and tradition converge. Designed as a crossroads for local and regional identity, this modern roadside station celebrates the rich heritage of Eastern Hiroshima with a dynamic blend of agriculture, craftsmanship, and community spirit.
Visitors are welcomed by a lively mix of food, shopping, and entertainment. Explore a bustling food hall featuring regional specialties like locally brewed sake, artisanal beef curry, and handcrafted soba noodles. Fresh farm produce, seasonal fruits, and curated goods from local artisans highlight the region’s agricultural excellence. With facilities including a children’s indoor play area, dog park, and multi-purpose rental space, it’s a destination for all ages. Whether sampling a glass of craft beer or browsing seasonal harvests, every visit offers a genuine taste of Hiroshima’s rural vitality.
Why Visit
Saijo Nonta no Sakagura stands out as the only roadside station in the region where visitors can taste and purchase the exclusive Nonta no Sakagura Beer Beef Curry, a rich blend of locally brewed beer, tender beef from Morishige Ranch, and regional spices. Equally unique is the chance to sample the area’s prized Hachibonmatsu-grown melons, grown with meticulous care by Tashida Farm, known for their exceptional sweetness. These are not just products—they are the essence of East Hiroshima’s agricultural passion, available nowhere else.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor authentic local flavors at Saijo Nonta no Sakagura, where traditional dishes meet modern culinary artistry.
Okonomiyaki House
お好み焼き屋 おこのん
Specialty
Traditional Japanese okonomiyaki with local ingredients
A cozy restaurant specializing in handmade okonomiyaki, where guests can enjoy the savory, customizable pancake made with fresh local vegetables and seafood. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, perfect for families and food lovers seeking an authentic taste of Hiroshima-style cuisine.
Soba Noodle House
そば処 一福
Specialty
Handcrafted soba noodles from the region
A traditional soba restaurant offering freshly made buckwheat noodles served in a variety of styles. The ambiance is rustic and serene, emphasizing the craftsmanship and heritage of authentic Japanese soba preparation.
Local Delights Café
地元の味カフェ
Specialty
Local snacks and drinks with regional flair
A relaxed café serving a variety of local snacks, drinks, and light meals. The space is bright and modern, ideal for a casual break or afternoon tea with a taste of East Hiroshima’s culinary culture.
Farmers Market Food Stall
農産物直売所
Specialty
Fresh local produce and seasonal goods
A vibrant food stall offering fresh, seasonal fruits, vegetables, and regional specialties. The atmosphere is lively and community-oriented, with a focus on supporting local farmers and artisans.
Shopping Highlights
Discover a curated selection of regional treasures and handmade goods at Saijo Nonta no Sakagura’s vibrant marketplace.
Sake Brewery Store
酒蔵直売所
A dedicated shop selling a wide range of local sake and sake-based products, including limited editions and seasonal releases.
Products
Must-Try Item
Sake with local rice and water
Local Food Market
地元食品市場
A general retail shop offering a variety of regional food products, from snacks to condiments, all made with local ingredients.
Products
Must-Try Item
Onigiri with local fillings
Craft and Souvenir Shop
工芸品・お土産店
A shop specializing in handmade crafts and souvenirs from East Hiroshima, featuring unique items made by local artisans.
Products
Must-Try Item
Hand-painted ceramics
Farmers Market
農産物直売所
A market dedicated to fresh, locally grown fruits and vegetables, supporting regional farmers and sustainable agriculture.
Products
Must-Try Item
Melons from Yonematsu Town
Featured Products
Explore signature items like craft sake, seasonal fruits, and unique local specialties crafted with passion.
Nonta no Sakagura Beer Beef Curry
のん太の酒蔵ビール牛カレー
A rich and flavorful beef curry made with locally brewed beer and fresh ingredients from Mori Shige Farm.
Nonta's One Fortune Soba
のん太の一福そば
Handcrafted buckwheat noodles made in collaboration with Ichifuku Soba Shop, using traditional methods and local grains.
Yonematsu Town Melon
東広島市八本松町産 メロン
Premium melons grown in Yonematsu Town, known for their sweetness and crisp texture, cultivated with care and passion.
Facilities & Amenities
Enjoy comfortable amenities including restrooms, indoor play areas, dog parks, and rental spaces for events.
Parking
Ample parking space available for visitors and travelers.
Near the entrance of the roadside station
Restroom
Clean and accessible restrooms for visitors, including facilities for people with disabilities.
Inside the main building
Free Wi-Fi
Complimentary Wi-Fi access available throughout the roadside station for guests.
Throughout the facility
Information Center
Visitor information desk providing maps, local tourism guides, and assistance with inquiries.
Main entrance area
Indoor Play Area
A dedicated indoor play area for children, featuring toys and games for fun and safe play.
Inside the facility
EV Charging Station
Electric vehicle charging station available for visitors using electric cars.
Near the parking area
ATM
Cash machine available for visitors to withdraw money conveniently.
Near the entrance
Pet Area
Designated space for pets, including dog-friendly zones and facilities for pet owners.
Outside near the entrance
Insider Tips
Plan your visit during peak events for exclusive tastings and local insights from friendly staff.
- Best Arrival Time: Visit between 9:30 AM and 10:00 AM on weekdays to secure a seat at the bakery counter where fresh milk bread is baked daily and often sells out by 11:00 AM.
- Hidden Gems: Head to the deli counter near the entrance to find the limited-edition "Nonta no Sakagura Beer Beef Curry" — it is only available during special event days and sells out quickly.
- Weekend Special: On Saturdays, arrive by 11:00 AM to join the "Local Farmers Market" held in the central plaza, where vendors from Higashihiroshima’s Eighteensu area sell fresh melons from Wakinou Farm.
- Best Photo Spot: Take a picture with the giant "Nonta" mascot statue located just outside the main entrance — it is a favorite spot for visitors and especially popular during the "Buchi Umai! Higashihiroshima Rice Festival" in November.
- Free Activity: Use the free Wi-Fi in the multi-purpose exhibition hall to access the "Higashihiroshima Map" digital guide, which provides real-time updates on local events and nearby attractions.
- Foodie Hack: Order the "Nonta’s Ichifuku Soba" at the food court during lunch hours (11:30 AM – 2:00 PM) — it is served with a side of homemade miso soup and only available during the autumn months.
- Local Insider Tip: Check the event board near the ticket counter for the "Sake Tasting Sessions" — they are held every Friday at 4:00 PM and include a tasting of three limited-edition local sake varieties not sold in the retail section.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March–May): Fresh bamboo shoots available at the market in April, with seasonal canola flowers blooming in late March to early April.
Summer (June–August): Peak season for local melons from Hachiboku, harvested from July through August.
Autumn (September–November): Hosts the "Buchi Umai! Higashihiroshima Rice Festival" in October, celebrating regional rice.
Winter (December–February): Features limited-edition sake releases and seasonal beer tastings during the winter months.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Offers an indoor play area for children, stroller-friendly paths, and family-oriented events. Features kid-friendly food options and educational elements like local farming exhibits and interactive displays.
Food Lover Review
Provides diverse dining options including local specialties like Nonta no Sakagura beer beef curry and regional soba. Features fresh produce from local farms and a variety of artisanal food products with strong regional identity.
Car Camping Review
Offers restrooms and vending machines for basic needs. Parking is available, but no explicit overnight camping policy is mentioned. The area is relatively quiet during off-hours, though not designed specifically for extended stays.
Scenic Beauty Review
Located near natural landscapes with seasonal views and scenic surroundings. Features well-designed viewpoints and photo spots, especially during harvest season. The overall atmosphere blends rural charm with modern design.