Station Sky Dream Momi no Ki Park

Soar Above the Landscape at Sky Dream Momi no Ki Park

Nestled along National Route 32, Sky Dream Momi no Ki Park rises at the heart of the Mominoki Pass, where towering stands of evergreen trees create a natural canopy over a scenic mountain corridor. This roadside station stands as a tribute to the pioneering spirit of Jiro Kuroda, the visionary behind the world’s first conceptual flight principles, with a life-sized replica of his origami-inspired “Karakasa” aircraft on display. More than a pit stop, it’s a cultural gateway to the region’s legacy of innovation and natural beauty.

Visitors can savor fresh local produce at the Miminokimachi Direct Market, where seasonal vegetables, regional rice, tea, and imaginative ice creams made with sunflowers and azaleas delight the palate. With a panoramic lookout, picnic areas, and access to nearby hiking trails and the serene Mano Pond, this is a destination where nature, history, and community converge.

Sky Dream Momi no Ki Park stands out as the only roadside station in the region where you can experience the legacy of aviation pioneer Nishimura Chu Hachi, whose original dragonfly-inspired aircraft is replicated in life-size form on display. Just steps away, the unique "sunflower and azalea ice cream" — crafted exclusively from local harvests and available only here — offers a sweet taste of the area’s seasonal bounty. With its panoramic views from the Momi no Ki Pass and a blend of natural beauty and historical innovation, this station delivers an experience found nowhere else.

• Best Arrival Time: Visit between 8:00 AM and 9:00 AM on weekdays to access the full range of fresh produce at the Nakaminami Direct Market before popular items like seasonal bamboo shoots and locally grown rice sell out by midday.

• Hidden Gems: At the Nakaminami Direct Market, look for the unique ice cream made with sunflower and azalea flowers—these seasonal flavors are only available during the summer months and often sell out by 3:00 PM.

• Weekend Special: On Saturdays and Sundays, the market’s handmade soba and udon noodles are prepared fresh in the morning and sold only until 1:00 PM—arrive by 11:00 AM to secure your choice.

• Best Photo Spot: Head to the observation platform near the Momi no Ki Park’s large-scale model of the wasp-shaped aircraft designed by pioneer Jiro Niwa—this is the only location in the park where you can view the full-scale replica from the front with the surrounding forest and mountain backdrop.

• Free Access Tip: The Niwa Jiro Flight Museum is open daily from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM and does not charge an entry fee—arrive before 10:30 AM to avoid the midday crowds and enjoy the full exhibit without waiting.

• Parking Advantage: Use the accessible parking space near the entrance during weekdays, as it is often unoccupied between 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM, giving you the closest access to the Nakaminami Direct Market and the Niwa Jiro Flight Museum.

• Refreshment Strategy: Order a cup of locally made tea or a light meal at the on-site café between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM when the market is busiest—this is the only time the café offers seasonal snacks made with produce from the same day’s market haul.

Spring (March–May): Fresh bamboo shoots available at the market from early April; peak season for visiting the scenic mochi tree grove along National Route 32.

Summer (June–August): Ideal for exploring the shaded trails near Mino Pond; open daily until 5:30 PM at the roadside station.

Autumn (September–November): Best time to enjoy the vibrant foliage around Mino Pond; seasonal produce includes local chestnuts and persimmons.

Winter (December–February): Quiet visits possible during the holiday closure; nearby salt bath hot spring open daily except Wednesdays.