Discover the Heart of Hyōgo’s Natural Bounty at Fresh Asago
Nestled in the scenic embrace of the Chūgoku Mountains, Fresh Asago stands as a welcoming roadside station at the crossroads of the Hanshin region and the San'in area. Located just 90 minutes from Osaka and 40 minutes from Kobe, it serves as a vital rest stop and cultural gateway to the Asago City region. Perched along National Route 312 and adjacent to the Hashi-Tan联络 Expressway, the station blends seamless accessibility with a deep connection to local heritage.
What sets Fresh Asago apart is its celebration of regional identity. Visitors can savor authentic dishes made with seasonal ingredients, including the famed Iwatsu Onion, enjoy panoramic views from the rooftop deck, and explore a wide selection of local specialties—from wild game and seafood to traditional snacks and crafts. Designed with universal accessibility in mind, the station embodies warmth and inclusivity, making it a true hub where travelers and locals connect.
Why Visit
Visit Fresh Asago to experience the only roadside station in the region offering a panoramic view of the Buttsu mountain range from its elevated deck, where the air is scented with wild mountain herbs. Here, you can taste the exclusive Iwatsu Negi onion in a warm, savory negi ramen—a local specialty made with onions grown in the very soil of the Asago Basin. For a true regional treat, try the Kamishima deer curry, crafted from sustainably sourced local deer meat, available only at this station’s shop.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor local flavors at Fresh Asago’s展望レストラン, where mountain views meet seasonal, farm-to-table cuisine.
View Restaurant
展望レストラン
Specialty
Local cuisine made with fresh regional ingredients
A restaurant offering a dining experience with panoramic views of the natural surroundings of Asha, serving distinctive local dishes crafted from fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
Shopping Highlights
Discover regional treasures at Fresh Asago’s物産販売コーナー, offering fresh produce and artisanal goods.
Local Specialty Sales Corner
ふるさと物産販売コーナー
A shop offering a wide variety of seasonal agricultural and forestry products from Asha City and the Tango region, including local vegetables, seafood, and traditional snacks.
Products
Must-Try Item
Iwatsu Onion
Featured Products
Explore signature items like Iwatsu onion and Buta region specialties, crafted from the area’s rich natural bounty.
Iwatsu Onion
岩津ねぎ
One of Japan's three major onions, known for its sweetness and crisp texture, grown in the Iwatsu area of Asha City.
Tango Steamed Bun
但馬饅頭
Traditional steamed buns from the Tango region, made with locally sourced ingredients and known for their soft texture and delicate flavor.
Tango Crispy Snack
但馬煎餅
Crispy rice crackers from the Tango region, crafted using traditional methods and available in various flavors.
Tango Cookie
但馬クッキー
Handmade cookies from the Tango region, made with natural ingredients and a light, buttery flavor.
Tango Rice Cake
但馬餅
Traditional rice cakes from the Tango region, made using local rice and known for their chewy texture and natural sweetness.
Kangaroo Meat Bento
鹿肉弁当
A lunch box featuring locally sourced kangaroo meat, known for its lean and tender texture.
Facilities & Amenities
Enjoy accessible, thoughtfully designed amenities including restrooms, parking, and a connecting walkway for travelers.
Parking Lot
The roadside station has a parking lot with 104 spaces, including 25 large vehicle spots and 79 regular vehicle spots.
Located within the roadside station premises
Restrooms
The station features 19 male toilets and 16 female toilets, including 3 accessible toilets for people with disabilities and baby changing stations.
Located throughout the facility, with separate facilities for both directions of the highway
Information Center
Provides tourism and road information for Asha City and the Tango region, including local attractions and travel guidance.
Located within the roadside station
Viewing Restaurant
Offers local cuisine made from fresh regional produce, including seasonal specialties. Currently operating with limited menu due to renovation work until November 16.
Inside the roadside station building
Local Products Sales Counter
Sells a wide variety of local products such as Iwatsu onions, deer meat, seafood from the Sea of Japan, and traditional snacks like mochi, senbei, cookies, and regional confections. Over 3,000 items available. Accepts cash, credit cards, electronic money (ID, transport cards, Quick Pay, WAON, Nanaco, Edy), and PAYPAY.
Inside the roadside station building
Wi-Fi
Wi-Fi is available for visitors at the roadside station.
Throughout the facility
EV Charging Station
Electric vehicle charging station available at the roadside station.
Located within the parking area
ATM
An ATM is available for visitors at the roadside station.
Located within the facility
Viewing Deck
A viewing deck that offers panoramic views of the natural surroundings of Asha City.
Located on the upper level of the roadside station
Insider Tips
Plan visits during off-peak hours to avoid crowds and make the most of the scenic overlook and nearby attractions.
- Best Arrival Time: Visit the shop between 10:00 AM and 12:00 PM on weekdays to secure the limited batch of fresh Iwatsu onion (Iwatsu negi) before it sells out, as these are restocked only once daily and often deplete by midday.
- Hidden Gems: At the deli counter, look for the Dantaikaraage (deep-fried chicken) and Milk Bread with Local Butter—both available only during the current construction period and not listed on the main menu.
- Weekend Special: On weekends, arrive by 11:30 AM to purchase the Limited Run Onsen Egg Bento, which is only available for sale at the shop from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM and sells out quickly.
- Pro Tip for Drivers: If using the northbound lane of the Hashi-Dan Link Expressway, access the facility through the connecting walkway bridge between the lanes—this route is clearly marked and avoids having to re-enter the main road.
- Best Photo Spot: Head to the southern end of the observation deck during late afternoon hours (after 3:30 PM) when sunlight hits the surrounding forest and the Sano U Highland valley below, creating ideal lighting for photos.
- Must-Buy Local Item: Purchase the Butsugo-style Mochi with Iwatsu Onion and Seafood—only available in the shop from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM daily and not sold elsewhere.
- Cashless Convenience: Use PAYPAY or the electronic wallet system (ID,交通系, QuikPay, Wakoku, Nanaco) at the shop—this is the only place in the facility where mobile payments are accepted, making it faster than using cash during peak hours.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March–May): Peak season for fresh bamboo shoots and early harvest of Iwatsu onions.
Summer (June–August): Enjoy seasonal mountain vegetables and local produce at the market.
Autumn (September–November): Best time for fresh Iwatsu onions and limited-run seasonal dishes.
Winter (December–February): Ideal for cozy visits with warm local meals and scenic views.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Offers ample parking, stroller-friendly access, and baby beds. Includes a spacious restroom with family facilities. Features a playground and educational elements like local produce displays and cultural exhibits, making it highly suitable for families.
Food Lover Review
Features a dedicated restaurant serving local dishes with fresh ingredients, including renowned Iwatsu onion. Offers a wide variety of regional specialties, fresh produce, and over 3,000 products in the shop, including seafood and traditional snacks.
Car Camping Review
Provides restrooms, vending machines, and ample parking for overnight stays. Quiet surroundings with a scenic view enhance comfort. Overnight parking is allowed, though no official camping facilities are available.
Scenic Beauty Review
Boasts panoramic views from the observation deck overlooking the surrounding mountains. Offers beautiful seasonal landscapes, especially in spring and autumn. The natural setting and well-maintained surroundings create a peaceful, scenic atmosphere.