Discover the Heart of Mie: Nature, Tradition, and Relaxation at Iitaka Station
Nestled along the scenic National Route 166 in Mie Prefecture, Iitaka Station is a vibrant roadside station where rural charm meets modern comfort. More than a mere pit stop, it stands as a cultural and natural gateway, celebrated for being the only roadside station in the region to offer a day-use natural hot spring. Surrounded by lush forests, flowing rivers, and historic trails, the station is a perfect base for travelers seeking authentic experiences.
Guests can unwind in the aromatic, wood-scented Iitaka no Yu hot spring, savor seasonal dishes at Restaurant Iitaka, or explore local heritage through walking tours of the Mezurashitouge Historical Trail. With offerings ranging from traditional sweets like Dengara and Daryaki to hands-on soba-making and cozy cottages, Iitaka Station blends relaxation, cuisine, and community in a uniquely Japanese setting.
Why Visit
Iitaka Station stands out as the only roadside station in Mie Prefecture with a day-use hot spring, offering visitors a rare chance to soak in natural mineral waters rich in silica while overlooking the clear waters of the Kushida River. Its standout culinary experience is the seasonal “Lotus Dam Curry,” crafted with locally sourced ingredients and inspired by the nearby Lotus Dam, available only during limited months. This unique fusion of regional history, natural beauty, and hyper-local flavors makes Iitaka Station a destination unlike any other.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor seasonal flavors at Iitaka Station’s restaurant, where local ingredients shine in every dish.
Restaurant Iitaka
レストランいいたか
Specialty
Seasonal local ingredients with a focus on regional cuisine
A restaurant offering seasonal dishes made from fresh local produce, featuring a variety of meals including set menus and specialty items. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, with a focus on regional flavors and culinary craftsmanship.
Soba Experience Workshop
そば打ち
Specialty
Hands-on soba noodle making using 100% local buckwheat flour
A hands-on experience where visitors can try making soba noodles using locally sourced buckwheat flour. The atmosphere is interactive and educational, ideal for families and food enthusiasts.
Donut Specialty Shop
ドーナツ専門店
Specialty
Freshly made donuts with a variety of flavors
A dedicated donut shop offering freshly baked donuts with a range of sweet and unique flavors. The atmosphere is light and cheerful, perfect for a quick treat or snack.
Shopping Highlights
Discover unique regional treasures and fresh produce at Iitaka Station’s well-curated market.
Iitaka Shop
いいたかの店
A retail shop offering a wide range of local products including regional snacks, tea, shiitake mushrooms, and fresh vegetables.
Products
Must-Try Item
Dengara (traditional sweet)
Iitaka Spa Gift Shop
いいたかの湯
A gift shop located within the hot spring facility, offering bath products and souvenirs inspired by the natural surroundings.
Products
Must-Try Item
Hinoki Bath Additives
Featured Products
Try signature treats like 'den-gara' and 'dara-yaki,' along with local specialties crafted with tradition.
Hinoki Bath Additives
入浴材
Wooden bath additives made from local hinoki wood that release a refreshing aroma when added to bathwater. Crafted by local artisans and branded with the Iitaka Spa name, ideal as a souvenir.
Dengara
でんがら
A traditional local sweet made with rice flour and sugar, known for its soft texture and nostalgic flavor. A beloved regional treat.
Dara Yaki
だらやき
A traditional rice flour-based snack with a crispy texture and sweet flavor. A classic local favorite often enjoyed with tea.
Tottokimochi
とっときもち
A traditional rice cake with a soft, chewy texture and sweet filling. Made using local ingredients and enjoyed as a seasonal treat.
Tottokimiso
とっときみそ
A regional miso paste made with local soybeans and traditional fermentation methods. Known for its rich, umami flavor and use in local dishes.
Facilities & Amenities
Relax in natural hot springs or unwind in spacious, accessible facilities designed for all travelers.
Iitaka no Yu
A day-use natural hot spring with 18 bathing pools, including 11 types of baths, located within the roadside station. Open from 10:00 to 20:00 (closed at 20:45). Closed on Wednesdays (except holidays), and also closed from December 31 to January 1.
Inside the roadside station
Restaurant Iitaka
A restaurant offering seasonal local ingredients, including limited-time menus such as autumn special dishes and Matsusaka beef hamburger set. Open from 11:00 to 19:00 (last order at 18:30). Closed on Wednesdays (except holidays), and also closed from December 31 to January 1.
Inside the roadside station
Iitaka no Mise
A store selling local specialties such as tea, shiitake mushrooms, traditional sweets like 'Dengara' and 'Daryaki', and 'Tottokimochi' and 'Tottokimiso'. Open from 9:00 to 18:00. Closed on the second Wednesday of June and December, and also closed from December 31 to January 1.
Inside the roadside station
Grass Park
A large grassy park located on the west side of the roadside station, covering approximately 5,000 square meters. Features playground equipment and is suitable for children's play.
West side of the roadside station
EV Fast Charger
Two fast-charging stations for electric vehicles are available at the roadside station.
At the roadside station
Free Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi access is available throughout the roadside station.
Throughout the roadside station
Parking Lot
The station has space for 91 regular cars and 8 large vehicles. There are also 4 parking spots designated for disabled access.
At the roadside station
Information Counter
A service desk providing information about the roadside station, nearby attractions, events, and facilities. Open from 10:00 to 18:00.
Inside the roadside station
Rental Bicycle
Bicycles can be rented at the roadside station for visitors to explore the surrounding area.
At the roadside station
Nursing Room
A private room equipped for breastfeeding and baby care, available for parents with infants.
Inside the roadside station
Restroom
Restrooms are available for visitors, including 20 male toilets (8 large, 12 small) and 13 female toilets. Accessible facilities with ramps are also provided.
Inside the roadside station
Iitaka Station Cottage
Cottages available for overnight stays, with check-in from 16:00 to 24:00 and check-out by 10:00 the next day. Closed on the second Wednesday of June and December, and also closed from December 31 to January 1.
At the roadside station
RV Park
An RV park with check-in from 11:00 and check-out by 10:00 the next day. Closed on the second Wednesday of June and December, and also closed from December 31 to January 1.
At the roadside station
Momi Hug
A relaxation service offering massage therapy. Open from 11:30 to 16:30. Closed on Wednesdays (except holidays), and also closed from December 31 to January 1.
Inside the roadside station
Soba Making Experience
An experience class where visitors can make soba noodles using 100% local buckwheat flour. Open from 10:00 to 15:00. Closed on Wednesdays (except holidays), and also closed from December 31 to January 1.
Inside the roadside station
Activities & Experiences
Immerse yourself in hands-on experiences from soba-making to seasonal walks through scenic trails.
Hot Spring Experience
いいたかの湯
Soak in 18 different natural hot spring baths with views of the clear stream of Kushida River. The baths are located in a wood-scented facility and are open for day-use only.
Duration
60 min
Soba Making Workshop
そば打ち
Learn to make soba noodles using 100% local buckwheat flour. Participants will experience the traditional process of mixing, rolling, and cutting fresh noodles.
Duration
60 min
Walking Tour: Mezurashitouge Historical Trail
珍布峠ウォーキングコース
Walk along a historic trail recognized as one of Japan's 100 Best Walking Routes. Explore ancient sites related to the Kuniwake legend and enjoy scenic views of the surrounding countryside.
Duration
90 min
Wear appropriate footwear and bring rain gear for wet weather.
Seasonal Scenic Walk
四季折々の美しさを堪能できる！
Enjoy the changing beauty of nature throughout the year: cherry blossoms and water plantain in spring, mountain lilies in summer, autumn foliage in fall, and camellias in winter.
Duration
120 min
Check weather conditions before visiting; some areas may be slippery in rain or snow.
Towel Day Event
タオルの日
Participate in a special event where guests who spend over 1,000 yen at the restaurant receive a free original towel upon entry to the hot spring.
Duration
30 min
Paddy Field Drive Stamp Rally
棚田ドライブスタンプラリー
Drive around 14 scenic paddy fields across the region and collect stamps to enter a prize draw. The more stamps collected, the better the chances of winning.
Duration
180 min
Best enjoyed on clear days; avoid heavy rain or fog.
Handmade Doll Exhibition
田中三津子 手作り人形展
View an exhibition of handmade dolls created by local artist Tatsuko Tanaka, featuring nostalgic themes and personal memories.
Duration
60 min
Relaxation Massage
もみほぐし
Enjoy a relaxing massage session to relieve muscle tension and promote well-being.
Duration
45 min
Insider Tips
Visit on weekdays to enjoy exclusive offers and avoid crowds at Iitaka Station’s popular attractions.
- Best Arrival Time for the Autumn Curry: Visit the restaurant by 11:30 AM on weekdays to secure one of the 10 daily servings of the limited-time "Lotus Dam Curry – Autumn Version," which sells out quickly due to its popularity.
- Hidden Gems at the Souvenir Shop: Look for the "dengara" and "darayaki" sweets in the "Iitaka no Mise" shop—they are traditional local confections not widely available outside the region and are best purchased before 4 PM when the shop closes.
- Weekend Special for Spa Visitors: On Tuesdays, visit the "Iitaka no Yu" spa between 10:00 AM and 12:00 PM to participate in the "Towel Day" event—bring a receipt showing a purchase of 1,000 yen or more from the restaurant to receive a free original towel.
- Best Time to Experience Soba Making: Book a spot at the "Soba Making Experience" (Sake Raku Koubou) by arriving before 10:30 AM, as sessions start at 10:00 AM and are offered only on weekdays with reservations required.
- Unique Local Food to Try at the Restaurant: Order the "Matsusaka Beef Burger with Shiitake" (available from September 4) before 1:00 PM to ensure you get the full experience of the A5-grade beef and avoid missing out during peak lunch hours.
- Ideal Time to Visit the Donut Shop: Head to the dedicated donut shop between 10:30 AM and 11:30 AM on non-waterday weekdays to enjoy freshly baked donuts before they sell out, as the shop closes at 5:00 PM and often runs out by 4:30 PM.
- Best Time to Explore the Walking Course: Start the "Mezurashitoge Walking Course" early in the morning—ideally by 9:00 AM—on a non-waterday to avoid crowds and to fully appreciate the historical sites, especially the "Kuniwake Legend" monument, before the midday heat sets in.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March-May): Cherry blossoms and Mizubasho bloom in early spring, with the walking course to Mezurashitoge Peak ideal for sightseeing.
Summer (June-August): The summer heat draws visitors to the natural hot spring and shaded picnic areas.
Autumn (September-November): Enjoy seasonal menus featuring chestnuts and autumn vegetables, with the paddy field drive-through event running through February.
Winter (December-February): Experience the hot spring and the seasonal “Towel Day” event, with views of camellias in bloom.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
A large grassy park with play equipment and a dog run offers ample space for children. The restaurant serves kid-friendly meals, and the facility includes stroller access and baby-changing stations. Educational experiences like soba-making and walking tours enhance family engagement.
Food Lover Review
The restaurant offers diverse seasonal dishes using local ingredients, including premium A5 Matsusaka beef. The shop sells regional specialties like 'dengara' and 'darayaki' sweets. Fresh produce and unique items like seasonal curry are available, enhancing the culinary experience.
Car Camping Review
The RV park provides designated parking with clear check-in/check-out times. Restrooms and vending machines are available, though noise from nearby activities may affect quiet. Overnight stays are permitted, but full access is limited on specific water days.
Scenic Beauty Review
The site features scenic views of the Kuzuta River and surrounding natural landscapes. Seasonal beauty is evident in cherry blossoms, autumn foliage, and winter camellias. The grassy park and walking trails offer pleasant photo opportunities and a peaceful atmosphere.