Discover the Heart of Shinshu’s Natural Beauty
Nestled along National Route 143 between Ueda City and Matsumoto, Aoki roadside station is a vibrant gateway to the serene landscapes and rich traditions of Shinshu. Surrounded by lush forests, rolling farmland, and the majestic peaks of the Japanese Alps, this roadside station offers travelers a true taste of rural Japan.
More than just a rest stop, Aoki invites visitors to explore local culture through seasonal festivals, hands-on farm experiences at Miyabuchi Farm, and the famous Tachiaka Soba, made from locally grown buckwheat. With panoramic views, a welcoming community spirit, and access to outdoor adventures like paragliding and hiking, Aoki is where nature, tradition, and modern comfort come together.
Why Visit
Aoki roadside station stands out as the only stop along National Route 143 where visitors can sample authentic Tachiaka soba made from locally milled flour using traditional stone-grinding methods. Just steps away, the station’s seasonal cherry blossom viewing area offers panoramic views of the surrounding rice paddies and the iconic Tachikawa River, creating a uniquely picturesque experience not found elsewhere in the region.
Restaurants & Dining
At Aoki roadside station, savor seasonal flavors from local farms and kitchens.
Aoki Specialty Restaurant
あおき特産レストラン
Specialty
Local cuisine featuring seasonal ingredients from Aoki Village
A cozy dining spot offering traditional dishes made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients from Aoki Village. The atmosphere is warm and rustic, perfect for enjoying authentic mountain cuisine.
Aoki Forest Cafe
あおき森カフェ
Specialty
Artisanal coffee and homemade pastries in a forest-themed setting
A peaceful café nestled in a forest-like environment, serving handcrafted coffee and freshly baked goods. The ambiance is calm and natural, ideal for relaxation.
Aoki Food Stall
あおきフードスタンド
Specialty
Quick street-style meals with local flavors
A casual food stall offering fast, delicious meals made with fresh local ingredients. Perfect for a quick bite while exploring the roadside station.
Shopping Highlights
Discover unique crafts and regional treasures at Aoki roadside station.
Aoki Farmers Market
あおき農産物市場
A marketplace offering fresh, locally grown produce from Aoki Village farmers.
Products
Must-Try Item
Fresh Mountain-Grown Lettuce
Aoki Bakery
あおきベーカリー
A small bakery specializing in traditional Japanese bread and pastries made with local ingredients.
Products
Must-Try Item
Soba Flour Bread
Aoki Craft Shop
あおきクラフトショップ
A shop selling handmade crafts and artisanal goods created by local artisans.
Products
Must-Try Item
Handmade Bamboo Basket
Aoki Meat & Dairy
あおき肉・乳製品
A dedicated shop offering locally raised meat and fresh dairy products.
Products
Must-Try Item
Aoki Mountain Beef
Aoki Souvenir Shop
あおきおみやげ屋
A gift shop featuring traditional and unique souvenirs from Aoki Village.
Products
Must-Try Item
Aoki Village Stamp Set
Aoki Alcohol Shop
あおきアルコールショップ
A shop specializing in local alcoholic beverages, including sake and fruit liqueurs.
Products
Must-Try Item
Aoki Mountain Plum Liqueur
Featured Products
Taste signature specialties like Tachiaka soba and fresh mountain produce.
Tachikawa Soba Noodles
タチアカ蕎麦
Handmade buckwheat noodles made using traditional methods from Aoki Village.
Aoki Mountain Beef Jerky
あおき山牛のつぶし肉
Dried beef jerky made from locally raised Aoki Mountain beef, seasoned with natural herbs.
Aoki Forest Herbal Tea
あおき森ハーブティー
A blend of wild mountain herbs collected from Aoki Village, naturally dried and packaged.
Aoki Mountain Plum Liqueur
あおき山梅リキュール
A sweet, fragrant liqueur made from plums grown in the highlands of Aoki Village.
Aoki Soba Flour Bread
あおきそば粉パン
A unique bread made with 100% local soba flour, offering a nutty flavor and soft texture.
Aoki Village Stamp Set
あおき村スタンプセット
A collectible set of 10 unique stamps featuring local landmarks and characters from Aoki Village.
Aoki Mountain-Grown Lettuce
あおき山野菜レタス
Fresh, crisp lettuce grown in the high-altitude fields of Aoki Village, known for its sweetness.
Aoki Handwoven Bamboo Basket
あおき手編み竹かご
A beautifully crafted bamboo basket made by local artisans using traditional weaving techniques.
Facilities & Amenities
Relax with modern amenities and convenient services at Aoki roadside station.
Parking Area
The roadside station provides parking facilities for visitors.
Located along National Route 143, near the entrance of the roadside station
Restroom
Clean and accessible restrooms are available for visitors.
Inside the roadside station building
Free Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the roadside station for visitors.
Throughout the premises
Information Center
An information center is available to provide tourism information, maps, and assistance to visitors.
Inside the roadside station building
Play Area
A designated play area for children is available for family visitors.
Near the outdoor seating area
Hot Spring
The roadside station is near popular hot springs such as Tazawa Onsen and Kagake Onsen, which are featured in the Hot Spring Grand Election 2025.
Nearby in the Tazawa and Kagake areas
Bike Rental
Bicycles can be rented at the roadside station for exploring the surrounding area.
Near the entrance of the roadside station
Nursing Room
A private nursing room is available for mothers with infants.
Inside the restroom area
EV Charging Station
Electric vehicle charging stations are available for visitors using electric vehicles.
Near the parking area
ATM
An ATM is available for visitors to withdraw cash.
Near the entrance of the roadside station
Pet Area
A designated area for pets is available, allowing visitors to bring their animals.
Outside the main building, near the entrance
Insider Tips
Plan your visit around festivals and seasonal events for the best local insights.
- Best Arrival Time: Arrive by 9:30 AM on weekends to secure the day’s first batch of fresh-baked milk bread from the on-site bakery, which sells out by 11:00 AM
- Hidden Gems: Visit the deli counter between 10:00 AM and 12:00 PM to find the limited-edition seasonal jam made from locally grown mountain strawberries—only available during July and August
- Weekend Special: On Saturdays and Sundays, the roadside station hosts a live cooking demo at 11:30 AM featuring traditional Soshu-style buckwheat noodles (Tachiaka Soba) prepared with ingredients sourced from nearby farms
- Best Souvenir Purchase: Buy the "Aoki Mountain Harvest Box" before 3:00 PM on weekdays—it includes five different local snacks, including dried chestnuts and smoked mountain tofu, and is only restocked once per week on Monday mornings
- Special Access: Use the free shuttle bus service from the roadside station to the nearby Paragliding Park, which departs every 45 minutes starting at 10:15 AM and runs until 4:00 PM on weekends
- Peak Season Tip: During the annual Soshu Aoki Industry Festival (held in early October), visit the event booth near the entrance between 1:00 PM and 3:00 PM to receive a free tasting sample of the festival’s signature roasted chestnut paste
- Unique Experience: Participate in the "Taste the Seasons" tasting session held every Thursday at 2:00 PM—this guided tour includes samples of four seasonal products, including mountain herb tea and wild berry syrup, and is only available to visitors who sign up at the information desk by 1:30 PM
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March–May): Canola flowers bloom in late March to April, and fresh bamboo shoots are available at the roadside station market.
Summer (June–August): The paragliding park hosts events, and seasonal produce like summer vegetables are sold at the roadside station.
Autumn (September–November): The annual Aoki Industry Festival is held in October, featuring local crafts and food.
Winter (December–February): Limited access due to snow, but the roadside station remains open with seasonal snacks and local goods.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Aoki roadside station offers a play area, family-friendly food, stroller-accessible paths, and educational farm experiences. Interactive elements like the nearby farm and insect museum enhance child engagement. Safety and accessibility are well maintained.
Food Lover Review
The station features diverse dining options with high-quality local specialties like Tachiaka soba. Fresh produce from nearby farms and artisanal food products contribute to a rich culinary experience. The variety and authenticity are strong.
Car Camping Review
Restrooms and vending machines are available, supporting basic overnight needs. The area is relatively quiet, though not specifically designed for camping. Overnight parking is permitted but not explicitly advertised.
Scenic Beauty Review
Located along a scenic route, the station offers beautiful natural views, especially during seasonal changes. Photo spots include the surrounding countryside and nearby landmarks. The overall atmosphere is peaceful and visually appealing.