Station Nagao

Discover Serenity and Culture at Nagao Roadside Station

Nestled along the scenic route between the serene waters of Maesawa Dam Lake to the north and lush mountain landscapes to the south, Nagao Roadside Station is a peaceful haven for travelers exploring Shikoku’s spiritual and natural beauty. Located near the final pilgrimage site of the 88 Temple Circuit, it serves as a vital resting point for pilgrims and a welcoming retreat for all visitors.

Beyond its tranquil setting, Nagao stands out for its rich cultural offerings. The nearby O-Henro Exchange Salon showcases rare artifacts and stories of the pilgrimage tradition, fostering connection and reflection. Inside the station, guests can browse a vibrant local market featuring fresh regional produce and handcrafted bamboo goods. With facilities including a café, picnic areas, and access to cycling and kayaking trails, Nagao blends nature, culture, and community in a truly authentic Japanese roadside experience.

Nagao roadside station stands at the gateway to Shikoku’s 88 Temple Pilgrimage, offering pilgrims a rare chance to rest at the final temple, Daimokubozan Temple, just steps away. Its standout feature is the exclusive Ohenro Exchange Salon, where visitors can explore authentic pilgrimage artifacts and join local traditions. Nearby, the only on-site artisanal milk ice cream in the region—crafted from Jersey cow milk sourced from local farms—can only be found here, making it a must-try for food lovers seeking genuine regional flavor.

• Best Arrival Time: Arrive by 8:30 AM on weekdays to secure a parking spot near the物産館 (crafts and local produce shop) before it opens at 8:00 AM, as spaces fill quickly during peak hours
• Hidden Gems: Visit the ohenro交流サロン (pilgrim exchange salon) located across the road from the roadside station to view rare historical artifacts related to the Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage, open daily from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM
• Weekend Special: On Sundays, the roadside station hosts a rotating local craft demo at the体验施設 (hands-on experience area), where visitors can try bamboo weaving using materials from the 物産館 (local products shop)
• Best Food Purchase: Buy the fresh mountain vegetable bento box from the物産館 (local products shop) between 10:00 AM and 11:30 AM, as it sells out daily due to high demand from pilgrims and day-trippers
• Shower Access Tip: Use the shared shower facility between 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM on weekdays when the facility is less crowded and the hot water supply is most reliable
• Viewing Spot: Walk to the 展望地 (viewpoint) behind the roadside station at 3:00 PM on a clear day to catch the best sunset views over the前山ダム湖 (Maebashi Dam Lake)
• Pilgrim Resource: Pick up a free pilgrimage map at the 情報コーナー (information corner) before visiting the 大窪寺 (Ookura Temple), as the map includes detailed walking routes and prayer station locations along the Shikoku 88 Temple Trail

Spring (March–May): Canola flowers bloom in late March to April, and fresh bamboo shoots are available at the market.

Summer (June–August): Cool mountain air and shaded trails make the area ideal for hiking and rest stops.

Autumn (September–November): The surrounding hills turn vibrant, and autumn harvests include chestnuts and sweet potatoes.

Winter (December–February): Quiet mountain views and peaceful walks are best enjoyed during clear, crisp days.