Discover the Heart of Kii: Where Nature, Tradition, and Taste Meet
Nestled along National Route 42 in the serene heart of the Kii Peninsula, Oku-Ise Oodai is a roadside station that serves as both a welcoming retreat and a gateway to Japan’s sacred heritage. Located at the source and midstream of Japan’s clearest river, the Kyo River, this vibrant hub sits at the threshold of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Kii Mountain Range’s ancient pilgrimage route, the Kumano Kodo.
More than just a rest stop, Oku-Ise Oodai thrives as a cultural and culinary crossroads. Visitors can savor local specialties like fresh mountain vegetables, wild game, and yuzu-infused treats, or enjoy a hearty meal at the cozy Magokoro Restaurant. Every Sunday, the lively Oku-Ise Waiwai Market brings the community together, offering farm-fresh produce and regional delicacies for tasting and purchase. With free Wi-Fi, a relaxed café, and a wealth of local information, this roadside station invites travelers to slow down, connect, and experience the authentic spirit of rural Mie.
Why Visit
Visit Oku-Ise Oodai to experience the only roadside station in the region where you can savor the legendary Ayu river fish grilled to perfection at the "Mogokoro Yatai" food stall, using fish caught fresh from the pristine source of Japan’s clearest river, the Miyagawa. Here, you’ll also find the only public showcase of locally crafted yuzu preserves and wild game delicacies from the mountainous heart of Mie Prefecture.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor fresh, locally sourced meals at Oku-Ise Oodai roadside station.
Mogokoro Dining Hall
まごころ食堂
Specialty
Local cuisine with regional ingredients
A cozy dining hall offering meals made with fresh local produce and regional specialties, providing a warm and welcoming atmosphere for travelers seeking authentic taste of the area.
Mogokoro Food Stall
まごころ屋台
Specialty
Quick street-style meals
A casual food stall offering fast, flavorful snacks and light meals in a relaxed, outdoor setting perfect for quick breaks during travel.
Shopping Highlights
Discover regional treasures and seasonal goods at Oku-Ise Oodai roadside station.
Fresh Produce Market
とれたて農産物
A market featuring fresh, locally grown vegetables, fruits, and seasonal produce directly from nearby farms.
Products
Must-Try Item
Freshly harvested vegetables
Local Specialty Products Corner
特産品コーナー
A dedicated shop offering a wide range of regional specialty products, including processed goods from local ingredients.
Products
Must-Try Item
Yuzu-based products
Featured Products
Experience signature local specialties like yuzu, ayu fish, and game meats at Oku-Ise Oodai roadside station.
Yuzu Products
柚子
Premium processed products made from locally grown yuzu, including marmalade, juice, and zest.
Amago (Ayumi) Processed Food
鮎
Deliciously prepared ayu fish products, including smoked, dried, and ready-to-eat varieties.
Game Meat (Jivie) Products
ジビエ
High-quality processed game meat from local hunting, available in various forms such as sausages and jerky.
Facilities & Amenities
Relax and recharge with convenient amenities at Oku-Ise Oodai roadside station.
Parking Lot
The roadside station has parking space for 50 regular cars and 7 large vehicles.
Next to the Odai Town Hall, north of the Sawa Intersection on National Route 42
Restrooms
There are 6 male toilets and 4 female toilets available. The facility includes a ramp for accessibility.
Inside the roadside station
Free Wireless LAN
Free Wi-Fi is available for visitors at the roadside station.
Throughout the facility
Information Center
The roadside station serves as an information hub for local events, road conditions, and regional information from three nearby towns.
Inside the roadside station
Free Rest Area
A free rest area is available for travelers to relax and take a break.
Inside the roadside station
EV Charging Station
Electric vehicle charging is available, though it is currently temporarily unavailable as noted in the announcements.
Near the parking area
ATM
An ATM is available on-site for visitor convenience.
Near the entrance
Activities & Experiences
Engage in seasonal events and hands-on workshops at Oku-Ise Oodai roadside station.
Weekly Market
奥伊勢わいわい市
Attend a weekly market held every Sunday where visitors can purchase locally produced goods and sample regional products.
Duration
120 min
Local Produce Tasting
とれたて農産物
Taste fresh, locally harvested agricultural products available at the roadside station.
Duration
30 min
Local Specialty Food Sampling
特産品コーナー
Sample regional specialty products such as yuzu, ayu fish, and game meat at the local product corner.
Duration
30 min
Café Dining Experience
まごころ食堂
Enjoy meals made with local ingredients, including special dishes like the Odaishi Loco Moco and daily station bento.
Duration
60 min
Street Food Experience
まごころ屋台
Try local street food such as the popular Oishika Burger at the roadside station's food stall.
Duration
30 min
Insider Tips
Plan your visit around the weekly Waiwai Market for fresh local flavors at Oku-Ise Oodai roadside station.
- Best Arrival Time: Arrive by 9:30 AM on weekends to secure a seat at the Mogokoro Cafeteria before the popular Odaigawa Loco-Moco Special sells out, as it is only available until 12:00 PM and often sells out by early afternoon.
- Hidden Gems: Visit the local produce counter between 8:30–9:00 AM on weekdays to find the freshest seasonal vegetables and fruits, which are delivered daily from nearby farms and are not restocked after 10:00 AM.
- Weekend Special: Attend the Odaigawa Waiwai Market every Sunday from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM, where local farmers offer live demonstrations and free samples of freshly harvested mountain vegetables and citrus.
- Best Food Purchase: Buy the Yuzu-infused honey and Ayu fish jerky at the Specialty Products Counter before 11:00 AM, as these items are often sold out by midday due to high demand from travelers.
- Unique Dining Tip: Order the Odaigawa Forest Burger at the Mogokoro Food Stall between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM on weekdays to enjoy the special menu item made with locally foraged mushrooms and seasonal greens.
- Information Advantage: Pick up the Odaigawa Regional Info Guide at the Information Counter upon arrival, as it includes exclusive hiking trail maps and seasonal event schedules not available online.
- Parking Strategy: Use the two designated EV charging spots located near the entrance, as they are reserved for electric vehicles and are the only spots with fast-charging capability, making them ideal for long-distance travelers needing a quick power boost.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March–May): Late March to April brings peak canola flower viewing, with fresh bamboo shoots available at the market.
Summer (June–August): July features the weekly Sunday "Oku-Ise Waiwai Market" with fresh local produce and seasonal seafood.
Autumn (September–November): October offers the best time for wild game and citrus harvests, including yuzu.
Winter (December–February): January and February showcase seasonal dishes like roasted chestnuts and warm regional specialties.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Offers a play area and stroller-friendly paths. Features kid-friendly food options and interactive local product displays. Safe, accessible parking and family-oriented events like weekly markets enhance the experience.
Food Lover Review
Features diverse local cuisine including seasonal specialties like yuzu, ayu, and game. High-quality fresh produce and artisanal products available. The dedicated cafeteria and food stalls elevate the dining experience.
Car Camping Review
Provides restrooms, vending machines, and a quiet location near a scenic river. Offers limited overnight parking with no clear policy. Suitable for short stops but not ideal for extended camping.
Scenic Beauty Review
Located along the pristine source of the Miyagawa River with lush forest views. Offers multiple scenic viewpoints and seasonal beauty. The serene atmosphere and natural surroundings enhance the overall aesthetic appeal.