Discover the Heart of Iwate’s Rural Charm
Noda is a roadside station nestled in the serene landscapes of Noda Village, located in the heart of Iwate Prefecture. Situated near the historic Rikuzen Noda Station, it serves as a vibrant gateway to the region’s natural beauty, local culture, and authentic agricultural heritage. More than just a rest stop, Noda is a community-centered hub where visitors can connect with the rhythms of rural life.
At the heart of the station lies the Pappuru Visitor Center and Market, offering locally crafted goods, seasonal produce, and regional specialties. Guests can enjoy farm-fresh meals at the Pappuru Restaurant or take home a taste of Iwate with their takeout and direct farm sales. With easy access and a range of nearby attractions, Noda offers a genuine experience of northern Japan’s quiet countryside.
Why Visit
Noda roadside station is home to the region’s only artisanal milk ice cream made from fresh Jersey cow milk, available only here. Visitors can also experience the unique "Tōkō Mochi" festival rice cake, crafted using traditional methods passed down for generations in this village. The station’s signature product, wild mountain herb tea, is harvested from the nearby forests and sold exclusively at the on-site market.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor authentic local flavors at Noda roadside station's cozy restaurant.
Restaurant Pappuru
レストランぱあぷる
Specialty
Local cuisine with a modern twist
A cozy dining space offering a variety of regional dishes made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, perfect for enjoying authentic flavors of Iwate Prefecture.
Café Pappuru
カフェぱあぷる
Specialty
Artisanal coffee and homemade pastries
A relaxed café serving premium coffee and freshly baked goods. The ambiance is bright and airy, ideal for a quiet break or casual meeting.
Food Stall Pappuru
フードスタンドぱあぷる
Specialty
Quick local street food
A casual food stall offering fast, delicious bites made with regional ingredients. Perfect for a quick lunch or snack while exploring the area.
Shopping Highlights
Discover unique crafts and regional treasures at Noda roadside station's vibrant market.
Farmers Market Pappuru
産直ぱあぷる
A direct farm-to-table market offering fresh produce, eggs, and seasonal goods from local farmers in Noda Village.
Products
Must-Try Item
Freshly harvested carrots from Noda farms
Bakery Pappuru
パン屋ぱあぷる
A small bakery specializing in handmade breads and traditional Japanese pastries using local flour and ingredients.
Products
Must-Try Item
Sweet rice cake with red bean paste
Craft Shop Pappuru
工芸品ぱあぷる
A shop featuring handmade crafts and artisanal goods made by local artisans in Iwate Prefecture.
Products
Must-Try Item
Hand-carved wooden spoon
Meat Shop Pappuru
肉屋ぱあぷる
A specialty meat shop offering premium beef and pork sourced directly from local farms in Noda Village.
Products
Must-Try Item
Iwate beef loin
Dairy Shop Pappuru
乳製品ぱあぷる
A dedicated dairy shop selling fresh milk, cheese, and yogurt made from locally produced milk.
Products
Must-Try Item
Local yogurt with wild berries
Souvenir Shop Pappuru
お土産ぱあぷる
A gift shop offering a wide range of souvenirs and local specialties from Noda Village.
Products
Must-Try Item
Iwate rice ball gift pack
General Store Pappuru
雑貨ぱあぷる
A general merchandise store with everyday items, household goods, and local snacks.
Products
Must-Try Item
Iwate-style pickled vegetables
Alcohol Shop Pappuru
酒類ぱあぷる
A shop specializing in local alcoholic beverages, including sake, plum wine, and regional craft beer.
Products
Must-Try Item
Iwate plum wine
Featured Products
Taste the essence of the region with Noda's signature specialties and fresh local produce.
Iwate beef loin
岩手牛ロース
Premium beef cut from locally raised cattle, known for its tenderness and rich flavor
Local yogurt with wild berries
地元ヨーグルトと野イチゴ
Creamy yogurt made with fresh milk and sweet wild berries harvested from nearby forests
Iwate rice ball gift pack
岩手おにぎりギフトセット
A curated pack of three different flavors of rice balls made with local ingredients
Hand-carved wooden spoon
手彫り木のスプーン
A beautifully crafted wooden spoon made by local artisans using sustainably sourced wood
Iwate plum wine
岩手梅酒
A smooth, sweet plum wine made from locally grown plums and traditional brewing methods
Freshly harvested carrots
新鮮な収穫キャベツ
Crisp, sweet carrots grown in the fertile soil of Noda Village, harvested daily
Sweet rice cake with red bean paste
あずきあん餅
Traditional Japanese rice cake filled with sweet red bean paste, made with local ingredients
Iwate-style pickled vegetables
岩手風漬物
A mix of seasonal vegetables pickled using traditional methods and local salt
Facilities & Amenities
Enjoy convenient amenities and welcoming services at Noda roadside station.
Information Center
The roadside station features a comprehensive information center providing guidance on local tourism, transportation, and nearby attractions.
Main area of the roadside station
Restaurant Pappuru
A restaurant located within the roadside station offering local cuisine and meals for visitors.
Inside the roadside station
Farmers Market Pappuru
A direct sales store where visitors can purchase locally produced goods and agricultural products.
Inside the roadside station
Takeout Counter
A takeout service available at the roadside station for convenient meal pickup.
Near the restaurant area
Parking Area
Parking facilities are available for visitors' vehicles at the roadside station.
Front and side of the roadside station
Restroom
Public restrooms are available for visitors within the roadside station premises.
Inside the roadside station building
Free Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi access is provided for visitors at the roadside station.
Throughout the facility
Insider Tips
Unlock local secrets and practical advice for a richer visit to Noda roadside station.
- Best Arrival Time: Arrive by 9:30 AM on weekends to secure a seat at the restaurant PAPUL’s counter, where the limited-time morning set menu featuring local seafood is served until 11:00 AM and often sells out early
- Hidden Gems: Visit the produce stand PAPUL direct at 10:00 AM on Wednesdays and Saturdays to find freshly harvested mountain vegetables from nearby farms, including rare varieties like wild mountain garlic and local spinach
- Weekend Special: On Sundays, head to the takeout counter between 11:30 AM and 12:30 PM to grab the limited-edition “Noda Forest Ramen” bowl, made with broth from locally sourced pork and served with a side of pickled vegetables
- Best Purchase Time: Buy the seasonal “Noda Forest Honey” at the direct sales counter before 2:00 PM on weekdays, as it is only restocked once daily and often sells out by early afternoon
- Local Product Tip: Request the “Noda Village Gourmet Kit” at the information desk—available only on the first Tuesday of each month—to receive a curated box of five local specialties, including smoked trout, fermented soybean paste, and handmade buckwheat noodles
- Photography Spot: Take photos at the entrance near the old railway station platform, where the “Noda Express Train” mural is visible and best lit between 1:00 PM and 3:00 PM when sunlight hits the signage at a perfect angle
- Transport Tip: Use the free parking lot behind the restaurant PAPUL when visiting during peak hours, as the front lot fills up quickly and the back lot is accessible via the west exit path marked with a blue sign
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March–May): Canola flowers bloom in late March to April, and fresh bamboo shoots are available at the market in early spring.
Summer (June–August): Fresh strawberries are harvested from June through July, and the roadside station hosts summer festivals.
Autumn (September–November): Autumn leaves peak in late October, and local chestnuts are available for purchase in September and October.
Winter (December–February): Hot spring baths are open year-round, and winter festivals take place in December.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Offers a children's play area, family-friendly restaurants, stroller-accessible paths, and interactive local exhibits. Restrooms and parking are well-maintained, enhancing overall family comfort.
Food Lover Review
Features diverse dining options including a dedicated restaurant and fresh local produce at the direct sales store. Highlights regional specialties like Iwate mountain vegetables and artisanal snacks.
Car Camping Review
Provides clean restrooms, vending machines, and ample parking. Quiet surroundings during off-peak hours make it suitable for overnight stays, though no formal overnight camping policy is listed.
Scenic Beauty Review
Surrounded by natural landscapes with seasonal changes enhancing visual appeal. Offers scenic viewpoints and photo opportunities near the station and nearby trails.