Station Flower Station Chikumagawa

Discover the Heart of Shinano’s Farm-to-Table Spirit

Nestled along the serene banks of the Chikumagawa River in Iiyama, Flower Station Chikumagawa is more than a roadside station—it’s a vibrant celebration of local agriculture, craftsmanship, and community. Known for its fresh, seasonal produce and deep connection to the land, this destination showcases the best of Nagano Prefecture’s rural bounty. From sun-ripened apples and crisp autumn vegetables to handcrafted souvenirs and regional delicacies, every element reflects the region’s pride in quality and sustainability.

Visitors are welcomed by the inviting atmosphere of the farm market, the cozy charm of Café Riwa, and the informative hub of the Visitor Center. With seasonal events like the annual Iiyama New Rice Festival and special 20th-anniversary celebrations, there’s always something memorable to experience. Whether sampling a bowl of freshly made rice with mountain broth, enjoying a coffee-infused soft serve, or exploring local hiking and cycling routes through the nearby Alps, Flower Station Chikumagawa offers a true taste of authentic Japanese countryside life.

Flower Station Chikumagawa stands out as the only roadside station in the region where you can taste the rare "Yamanoeki Premium Rice" — a limited-edition, heirloom variety known as "Kagami Mochi" — available exclusively during the annual Iiyama New Rice Festival. At its heart, the station’s café, Cafe Riwa, offers a unique experience with its signature dish: a handmade chicken cutlet made from Fukuumi chicken, served with a proprietary mustard sauce and available only during seasonal events. These one-of-a-kind culinary moments, combined with the station’s 20th-anniversary commemorative ticket — available only with a purchase of 1,000 yen or more — create a visit that cannot be replicated elsewhere.

• Best Arrival Time: Visit between 9:00 and 9:30 AM on weekdays to secure a seat at the café restaurant before the 10:00 AM rush, especially when the "里わBランチ" (B Lunch) is available at 11:00 AM.

• Hidden Gems: Check the deli counter at the produce shop between 10:00 and 11:00 AM on weekends to find freshly baked milk bread from the local bakery, which sells out by 11:00 AM.

• Weekend Special: On November 1–3, arrive by 9:00 AM to receive the limited-edition 20th-anniversary commemorative ticket at the visitor center, available only with a purchase receipt totaling 1,000 yen or more from any shop at the roadside station.

• Seasonal Offer: On November 1–2, head to the produce shop’s front area between 10:00 AM and 1:00 PM to sample free new rice rice balls and mushroom soup during the "Iiyama New Rice Festival" — limited to 400 rice balls and 400 servings per day.

• Café Exclusive: Order the limited-time "Coffee Soft Cream" at Café里わ from November 1–3 between 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM, available only at the special price of 450 yen (tax included), which is not available at other times.

• Event Timing: Visit the visitor center’s front deck space on November 3 between 10:00 AM and 3:00 PM to participate in the North Shinshu 4 Ski Resorts Season Kick-Off Event, where you can purchase discounted early-bird lift tickets and enter a raffle.

• Local Product Tip: Purchase the limited "Shinshu Premium Beef Steak Donburi" at Café里わ during the 20th-anniversary event from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM — available only 20 portions per day, and sold out quickly.

Best Time to Visit

Spring (March-May): Visit during late March to April for canola flower picking and seasonal bamboo shoots at the market.

Summer (June-August): Enjoy the seasonal "O-hanaichi" farm market from August 10 to 13.

Autumn (September-November): Experience the annual "Iiyama New Rice Festival" in early November and seasonal harvests like wild mountain vegetables and apples.

Winter (December-February): Explore winter events, including the ski season launch and special limited-edition merchandise.