Station Oku-Ise Kitsutsu-kikan

Discover the Soul of Wood and Nature at Oku-Ise Kitsutsu-kikan

Nestled along National Route 42 in the heart of Mie Prefecture’s lush Kii Peninsula, Oku-Ise Kitsutsu-kikan stands as a serene sanctuary where ancient forests meet timeless tradition. Located just steps from the sacred Takiyama Shrine, a revered branch of Ise Grand Shrine, this roadside station celebrates the artistry of nature through its namesake—the woodpecker, a natural craftsman whose legacy lives on in every handcrafted piece. Surrounded by towering cedars and a tranquil atmosphere, the station offers more than a rest stop—it’s a cultural and sensory journey.

At Oku-Ise Kitsutsu-kikan, visitors immerse themselves in the warmth of Japanese craftsmanship. The station features a vibrant marketplace showcasing local specialties, including the famed Matsusaka beef, a hearty momiji rice bowl made from locally hunted deer, and an extensive selection of Mie Prefecture’s finest sake, craft beer, and regional spirits. The Woodcraft Shop highlights master artisans’ creations from diverse woods like hinoki, cedar, and kashi, while the Woodcraft Tea House serves seasonal dishes made with regional ingredients. With a newly opened baby care room and a shared kitchen for community cooking, this roadside station blends tradition, sustainability, and modern hospitality in perfect harmony.

Visit Oku-Ise Kitsutsu-kikan to experience the only roadside station in Mie Prefecture dedicated entirely to wood craftsmanship, where artisans create intricate items from rare local woods like keyaki, katsura, and enoki. Savor the region’s only momoji donburi—a hearty bowl of locally sourced deer meat served over rice—crafted in the on-site Kitsutsuki Chaya restaurant. Nestled before the ancient cedar groves of Takihara Shrine, the station offers a rare fusion of spiritual atmosphere, hands-on wood artistry, and deeply rooted local flavor.

• Best Arrival Time: Visit by 9:30 AM on weekdays to secure a seat at the woodcraft workshop table, as the first session for hands-on carving with local artisans begins promptly at 10:00 AM and fills up quickly
• Hidden Gems: At the "Wood Crafts" shop, look for the hand-carved hinoki (cedar) wooden spoons and chopsticks made by local artisans—these are only available in limited quantities and sell out by midday
• Weekend Special: On Sundays, the "Mushroom & Forest" food truck at the roadside station serves seasonal wild mushroom rice bowls from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM—only available on weekends and not listed on the main menu
• Best Purchase Time: Buy the “Momoji Donburi” (maple-glazed deer rice bowl) at the “Kitsutsuki Tea House” between 11:30 AM and 12:30 PM, as it is freshly prepared during this window and not restocked after 1:00 PM
• Unique Experience: Visit the "Share Kitchen" on Wednesdays between 1:00 PM and 4:00 PM to participate in live cooking sessions—on June 4, 2025, the collaboration with "Umai Mon-Tei" featured miso-baked udon and yakisoba served in limited batches
• Hidden Facility: Use the newly opened "Baby Rest Room" located just inside the main entrance near the information counter—this private, fully equipped space includes a changing table, baby-safe sink, and quiet seating, ideal for families with infants
• Timing for Local Brews: Purchase the limited-edition "Ise Shima Summit Sake" at the "Mie’s Local Sake" counter before 4:00 PM, as it is only restocked once daily and often sells out by 5:00 PM

Spring (March–May): Fresh bamboo shoots available at the market in early spring, with the best viewing of the surrounding cedar forests in April.

Summer (June–August): Ideal for visiting the shaded forest paths near the shrine, with the new baby rest area open from August 30.

Autumn (September–November): Peak season for the annual Takihara Autumn Festival in November, featuring woodcraft workshops and local food.

Winter (December–February): Quiet months with fewer crowds; enjoy the serene forest setting and seasonal woodcraft displays.