Discover the Heart of Ibaraki’s Natural Heritage
Nestled along National Route 294 in the serene countryside of Shimozuma, this roadside station is a vibrant gateway to the region’s rich agricultural legacy and timeless landscapes. Surrounded by blossoming flowers, flowing rivers, and lush greenery, it offers a peaceful retreat just minutes from the bustling rhythms of daily life. With sweeping views of Mount Tsukuba from its third-floor gallery, the station blends scenic beauty with cultural depth.
More than a rest stop, Shimozuma serves as a dynamic hub for local artisans and farmers. Visitors can sample regional specialties like authentic soba noodles made from locally grown buckwheat, taste award-winning natto crafted from 100% local soybeans, and explore a bustling market featuring fresh produce, traditional miso, and pickled vegetables. The station also features an art gallery showcasing student creations, a historic museum, and interactive workshops—making it a true celebration of community, tradition, and sustainable living.
Why Visit
Visit ShimoTsuma roadside station to experience the only on-site nankeen soybean processing facility in the region, where visitors can watch and taste locally crafted "Fukuyorai" natto made from 100% regional soybeans. Enjoy authentic kanto-style takoyaki and hand-pulled ramen at the on-site food stalls, while savoring panoramic views of Mount Tsukuba from the third-floor observation gallery.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor local flavors at Shimozuma roadside station, where fresh regional ingredients meet traditional cooking.
Japanese Restaurant (Main Building, 1st Floor)
和風レストラン（本館・1階）
Specialty
Local specialty pork and fresh seafood from Tsukiji Market
A traditional Japanese restaurant offering authentic flavors using locally sourced pork and fresh seafood delivered directly from Tsukiji Market. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, perfect for enjoying regional cuisine in a relaxed setting.
Soba Master's Pavilion
そば打ち名人亭
Specialty
Locally grown Ibaraki autumn soba prepared by local volunteers
A unique food stall where local farmers and community members come together to hand-make soba using traditionally cultivated autumn buckwheat. The atmosphere is lively and community-driven, emphasizing local craftsmanship and seasonal ingredients.
First Food Yangyang
ファーストフード陽陽
Specialty
Hand-pulled ramen and Kansai-style takoyaki with thick sauce
A casual fast-food café offering popular Japanese street food with a modern twist. The atmosphere is energetic and welcoming, ideal for quick bites and relaxed meals.
Shopping Highlights
Discover unique local treasures and seasonal goods at the diverse shops of Shimozuma roadside station.
Local Products Store (Main Building, 1st Floor)
物産館（本館・1階）
A multi-functional retail space selling local beer, sake, souvenirs, and convenience goods.
Products
Must-Try Item
Local beer and sake
Natto Mini Factory
納豆ミニ工場
A small-scale factory producing traditional natto using 100% locally grown soybeans.
Products
Must-Try Item
Natto 'Fukuyoroi'
Miso and Pickled Vegetables Processing Facility
味噌・漬物加工所
A facility dedicated to producing traditional miso and pickled vegetables using local ingredients.
Products
Must-Try Item
Traditional miso
Farmers' Market (Separate Building, 1st Floor)
農産物直売所（別館・1階）
A direct sales market where fresh vegetables, fruits, and processed goods from local farmers are sold.
Products
Must-Try Item
Fresh local produce
Featured Products
Explore signature specialties like authentic fermented soybean paste, salt-cut natto, and regional miso and pickles.
Natto 'Fukuyoroi'
納豆『福よ来い』
A traditional natto made from 100% locally grown soybeans, known for its rich flavor and smooth texture.
Soboro Natto
そぼろ納豆
A popular regional variation of natto made with a savory, slightly sweet seasoning.
Salt-Cut Natto
塩切り納豆
A traditional style of natto with a light salt seasoning, offering a balanced and mild taste.
Local Beer
地ビール
Craft beer brewed locally using regional ingredients and traditional methods.
Local Sake
地酒
Traditional sake made in the region using local rice and water, known for its clean and refined taste.
Facilities & Amenities
Enjoy convenient amenities including 24-hour parking, accessible restrooms, and information kiosks.
Parking Lot
69 standard cars, 51 large vehicles, and 1 accessible parking space available.
Adjacent to the roadside station
Restroom
8 male toilets, 8 female toilets, 2 children's toilets, and 1 accessible toilet available.
Throughout the premises
Information Center
Provides road information, nearby road station details, tourism information, medical facility contacts, and weather updates via information terminals. Open from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
Main building, 1st floor
Play Area
A children's playground is available within the facility.
Near the park area
Hot Spring
A hot spring facility is available on-site.
On-site
Wi-Fi
Wi-Fi access is available throughout the roadside station.
Throughout the premises
EV Charging Station
Electric vehicle charging station is available.
Near the parking area
ATM
An ATM is available for public use.
Near the entrance
Nursing Room
A dedicated nursing room is available for parents with infants.
Inside the restroom area
Pet Area
A designated area for pets is available.
Near the entrance
Insider Tips
Visit early to explore seasonal offerings and check for special events during festivals and harvest periods.
- Best Arrival Time: Visit between 9:00 AM and 9:30 AM on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays to tour the Nagaku Minikō (Natto Mini Factory) during its scheduled production hours, as the factory only operates on these days and tours are available from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
- Hidden Gems: Try the local specialty "Soboro Natto" and "Shio Kiri Natto" at the Nagaku Minikō (Natto Mini Factory) in the annex building—these are made with 100% locally grown soybeans and are only available for purchase at the factory itself.
- Weekend Special: On weekends, visit the Soba Uchi Meijin Tei (Soba Making Celebrity Hall) between 11:00 AM and 6:00 PM to watch local volunteers hand-make fresh soba noodles using locally grown Ibaraki autumn buckwheat, and sample a bowl while it's still warm.
- Food Truck Alternative: Stop by the First Food Yoyo (Fast Food Yoyo) before 8:00 PM on weekdays or 9:00 PM on weekends to enjoy their signature hand-pulled ramen and kansai-style takoyaki, which are only served until closing.
- Best Time for Local Produce: Go to the Farm Produce Sales Office (Agricultural Produce Sales Booth) by 4:00 PM on weekdays to get the best selection of seasonal vegetables and fruits, as vendors often reduce prices on unsold items in the final hour before closing.
- Experience Local Art: Visit the Art Gallery on the second floor between 9:00 AM and 6:00 PM to see artwork created by local elementary and middle school students—exhibits rotate seasonally and are free to view.
- View from Above: Head to the View Gallery on the third floor to see a panoramic view of Mount Tsukuba; arrive by 4:30 PM to catch the best sunset light before the gallery closes at 6:00 PM.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March–May): Visit for fresh bamboo shoots and peak canola flower viewing in late March to April.
Summer (June–August): Enjoy local harvests and seasonal events at the roadside station.
Autumn (September–November): Experience the fall harvest of local soba and seasonal produce.
Winter (December–February): Discover winter specialties and cozy seasonal treats.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Shimozuma offers a dedicated children's playground, stroller-friendly paths, and multiple restrooms including accessible ones. The site includes interactive elements like the納豆 mini factory and soba-making experience, enhancing family engagement.
Food Lover Review
Shimozuma features diverse dining options including local specialties like soba from local farmers, traditional fermented soybean dishes, and regional beer and sake. Fresh produce and artisanal food items are available at the farm market and processing facilities.
Car Camping Review
The roadside station provides 24-hour access to restrooms, parking for 69 regular and 51 large vehicles, and vending machines. While it lacks designated camping zones, overnight parking is permitted and the site remains quiet during evening hours.
Scenic Beauty Review
Shimozuma offers scenic views of Mount Tsukuba from the third-floor observatory gallery. The surrounding landscape of flowers, water, and greenery enhances the aesthetic appeal, with strong seasonal variation throughout the year.