Discover the Heart of Iwate’s Brewing Heritage
Nestled along the historic National Route 4 in northern Iwate, Ishitorigaya roadside station stands as a vibrant celebration of Japan’s renowned sake-making tradition. Designed with the elegance of a traditional sake brewery, the station is home to the iconic "Sake Master Hall" (Jushokan), where visitors can explore the art of sake craftsmanship. The towering 12-meter symbol tower, adorned with a traditional cedar ball (kushida), marks the perfect landmark for travelers seeking authentic local culture.
More than just a rest stop, Ishitorigaya offers a curated marketplace featuring Iwate’s finest regional specialties—premium sake, handmade crafts, and artisanal sweets. Don’t miss the popular handmade gelato, a sweet highlight that captures the spirit of the region. With a rewarding points card and a welcoming atmosphere, this roadside station invites travelers to savor the flavors, stories, and warmth of Iwate’s rural heart.
Why Visit
Ishitorigaya is home to the only roadside station in Iwate Prefecture dedicated entirely to the legacy of the Southern Toji, one of Japan’s three great sake brewers. The site features a sake-inspired architecture with a 12-meter-tall symbol tower adorned with traditional sake whisk brooms. Visitors can taste rare, small-batch sake gelato made with locally crafted rice wine, a flavor unique to this location. The on-site gift shop, Sake Master Hall, offers the region’s only curated selection of sake-themed souvenirs, including handmade sake paper and traditional brewing tools.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor local flavors at Ishitorigaya roadside station, where artisanal gelato and regional treats delight every palate.
Gelato
ジェラート
Specialty
Artisanal gelato made on-site
A gelato stall offering a wide variety of handcrafted gelato, featuring unique flavors inspired by local ingredients and traditions.
Shopping Highlights
Discover a curated selection of Iwate specialties and handmade goods at Ishitorigaya’s bustling gift shop.
Sake Craft Museum Gift Shop
酒匠館
A comprehensive souvenir shop offering a wide range of authentic Iwate prefecture products, including local specialties, sweets, and traditional crafts.
Products
Must-Try Item
Artisanal gelato
Featured Products
Sample signature items like traditional sake and unique local crafts, crafted with pride in the heart of a sake-making town.
Sake Brush (Sugi Ball)
酒箒（杉玉）
A traditional decorative item made from cedar wood, symbolizing the town's heritage as a sake brewing center. Used as a cultural emblem and souvenir.
Facilities & Amenities
Relax and recharge with comfortable amenities, including rest areas and convenient parking at Ishitorigaya roadside station.
Information Center
The roadside station features an information center providing guidance and details about the area, local attractions, and events.
Located at the roadside station Ishidoriya 'Sakushokan'
Parking Area
A parking area is available for visitors to conveniently park their vehicles while visiting the roadside station.
Near the entrance of the roadside station Ishidoriya 'Sakushokan'
Restroom
Clean and accessible restrooms are available for visitors at the roadside station.
Inside the roadside station Ishidoriya 'Sakushokan'
Free Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi is provided for visitors to use during their stay at the roadside station.
Throughout the premises of the roadside station Ishidoriya 'Sakushokan'
Play Area
A play area is available for children to enjoy and play safely while visiting the roadside station.
Near the main building of the roadside station Ishidoriya 'Sakushokan'
EV Charging Station
Electric vehicle charging stations are available for visitors driving electric vehicles.
Located at the parking area of the roadside station Ishidoriya 'Sakushokan'
ATM
An ATM is available for visitors to withdraw cash conveniently while at the roadside station.
Near the entrance of the roadside station Ishidoriya 'Sakushokan'
Nursing Room
A private nursing room is available for mothers to care for their infants in a comfortable and quiet environment.
Inside the roadside station Ishidoriya 'Sakushokan'
Online Store
An online store is available for visitors to purchase local products and souvenirs remotely.
Available via the official website and Instagram
Insider Tips
Maximize your visit with the point card—earn rewards with every purchase and unlock special gifts along the way.
- Best Arrival Time: Visit between 9:00 AM and 10:00 AM to get the first selection of the day’s fresh gelato, especially the limited-edition seasonal flavors that often sell out by noon
- Hidden Gems: Check the back corner of the deli counter near the entrance for the daily batch of handmade rice crackers made with local koji—these are only available during the morning hours and are not listed on the main menu
- Weekend Special: On Saturdays and Sundays, visit the kitchen truck area between 11:30 AM and 1:30 PM when the local sake brewery’s seasonal food truck offers free tastings of sake-infused dumplings
- Best Value Purchase: Use the official Ishitorigaya Point Card to collect stamps at the gift shop—buy one 1,000 yen item per visit to earn points, and redeem 20 stamps for a 500 yen gift card valid only at the on-site sake tasting bar
- Photography Spot: Stand directly under the 12-meter-high symbol tower with the cedar broom (shōzō) decoration to capture the full scale of the structure—this view is best from the western side of the parking lot between 1:00 PM and 3:00 PM when the sun highlights the tower’s silhouette
- Local Product Tip: Purchase the “Sake-Infused Soy Sauce” at the main counter—this exclusive product is only restocked on Tuesdays and Thursdays and is not available in other retail locations
- Timing for Events: If attending the autumn gratitude festival, arrive by 2:00 PM to secure a seat at the live sake-making demonstration, which begins promptly at 2:30 PM and is held only on weekends during the festival season
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March-May): Fresh bamboo shoots available at the market; canola flowers peak in late March to April.
Summer (June-August): Fresh gelato served daily from 9:00 to 17:00.
Autumn (September-November): Autumn gratitude festival held at the roadside station.
Winter (December-February): No seasonal events or product highlights mentioned.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Ishitorigaya roadside station offers a child-friendly environment with a large open space and a vibrant, interactive atmosphere. While no dedicated play area is mentioned, the engaging food and cultural exhibits appeal to children. The station is stroller-accessible with ample parking, and the themed design adds educational value for families learning about sake brewing traditions.
Food Lover Review
Ishitorigaya excels in food offerings with a wide selection of local specialties, including high-quality regional sweets and artisanal products. The gelato stand is a highlight, featuring unique flavors. Fresh produce and local crafts are available, and the gift shop offers diverse, authentic souvenirs, making it a top destination for food enthusiasts.
Car Camping Review
The roadside station provides basic facilities including restrooms and vending machines, supporting short stops. While not designed for overnight stays, the quiet location along National Route 4 offers a peaceful atmosphere. However, there is no explicit overnight parking policy, limiting its suitability for extended camping.
Scenic Beauty Review
Ishitorigaya features scenic views with a striking 12-meter symbolic tower adorned with traditional sake brushes. The surrounding landscape and the sake brewery-inspired architecture enhance its aesthetic appeal. Seasonal beauty is evident in the well-maintained grounds, and the location along a major highway offers pleasant visual experiences.