Discover the Heart of Nagano’s Natural Heritage
Nestled in the serene mountains of northern Nagano Prefecture, Kotani roadside station stands as a gateway to one of Japan’s most pristine alpine regions. Located along the historic Salt Road of Chikoku, this vibrant hub blends rural charm with modern convenience, offering travelers a peaceful retreat amidst sweeping forests and highland meadows.
More than a rest stop, Kotani is a cultural crossroads. Visitors can unwind in the naturally heated “Shinoyama Onsen,” famed for its reddish waters and snow-drenched outdoor bath, or explore nearby attractions like the alpine wetlands of Jōgi Natural Park and the ancient dinosaur footprints at the Kōya Village Folk Museum. The station’s artisan shop showcases traditional crafts like woven strawwork and patchwork, while the local restaurant serves hearty dishes made with wild mountain vegetables and locally raised wild boar.
Why Visit
Visit Kotani roadside station for its rare red mineral-rich hot spring, Deep Mountain Spa, where snow-drenched outdoor baths offer stunning views of the surrounding alpine landscape. The station is also the only place to taste hand-pulled soba made from locally milled mountain wheat and wild mountain vegetables, served in a traditional village-style restaurant.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor authentic local flavors at Kotani roadside station, where seasonal mountain vegetables and wild mushrooms meet traditional dishes.
Restaurant
レストラン
Specialty
Local cuisine featuring wild boar raised in the village and handmade soba noodles
A dining establishment offering traditional local dishes such as wild boar and hand-pulled soba, with seasonal menus featuring mountain vegetables and mushrooms.
Soba Restaurant
おたり名産館
Specialty
Handmade soba served in a dedicated dining area
A food stall within a specialty shop that offers a dedicated dining space for enjoying handmade soba, reflecting local culinary traditions.
Shopping Highlights
Discover handcrafted treasures and regional crafts at Kotani’s specialty shops, blending heritage with modern artistry.
Kotani Specialty Shop
小谷物産ショップ
A shop selling traditional crafts and local handmade goods such as straw crafts, patchwork, dried flowers, pottery, and vintage fabric weaving.
Products
Must-Try Item
Straw crafts
Otari Specialty Shop
おたり名産館
A general store selling seasonal mountain vegetables, mountain grape juice, traditional fabric weaving, and other local specialties.
Products
Must-Try Item
Mountain grape juice
Featured Products
Explore signature products like mountain herbs, handmade textiles, and seasonal treats unique to the region.
Mountain Grape Juice
山ブドウジュース
Freshly pressed juice made from wild mountain grapes, a seasonal specialty of the region.
Traditional Fabric Weaving
ボロ織り
Handwoven fabric using traditional techniques passed down through generations in the village.
Straw Crafts
ワラ細工
Traditional straw crafts made using locally sourced materials and time-honored methods.
Dried Flowers
ドライフラワー
Artfully preserved flowers from the region, ideal as decorative souvenirs.
Pottery
陶芸品
Handcrafted pottery made by local artisans using traditional techniques.
Patchwork
パッチワーク
Handmade patchwork items using vintage and locally sourced fabrics.
Facilities & Amenities
Enjoy 24-hour rest stops, accessible restrooms, spacious parking, and a natural hot spring for ultimate relaxation.
Parking Lot
The roadside station has a parking area with space for 43 regular cars, 7 large vehicles, and 4 disabled-accessible parking spots.
At the roadside station premises
Restroom
There are 7 male toilets, 5 female toilets, and 1 wheelchair-accessible restroom available for public use.
At the roadside station premises
Information Center
The information center provides local tourism information, including details about nearby attractions such as the Matsugawa Natural Park, ski resorts, and regional products. It also features a direct sales shop for local goods.
At the roadside station premises
Natural Hot Spring "Shinoyama-yu"
The station features a natural hot spring called "Shinoyama-yu" with red-colored water. The bath is open from 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM. In winter, guests can enjoy an outdoor bath surrounded by snow.
At the roadside station premises
Free Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the roadside station for visitors.
At the roadside station premises
EV Charging Station
Electric vehicle charging stations are available at the roadside station.
At the roadside station premises
ATM
An ATM is available for public use at the roadside station.
At the roadside station premises
Nursing Room
A dedicated nursing room is available for mothers with infants.
At the roadside station premises
Insider Tips
Visit on weekdays to avoid crowds and enjoy the deep red hot spring under clear mountain skies.
- Best Arrival Time: Visit the restaurant between 11:00 AM and 11:30 AM on weekdays to secure a table for the hand-made soba served with seasonal mountain vegetables before the lunch rush begins
- Hidden Gems: At the small valley craft shop, look for the hand-woven "bori-ori" textiles and dried flower arrangements made from local alpine blooms—these are only restocked once a month and sell out quickly
- Weekend Special: On Saturdays, visit the small valley craft shop between 10:00 AM and 10:30 AM to meet the local artisan who demonstrates traditional straw weaving and offers exclusive workshop samples
- Best Bath Time: Use the deep mountain hot spring "Shimoyu" between 3:00 PM and 4:30 PM on weekdays to avoid weekend crowds and enjoy the red-colored water with minimal wait times
- Unique Food Item: Purchase the seasonal wild mountain vegetable juice at the small valley specialty shop—available only from late May to early June and sold in limited quantities each day
- Hidden Information Spot: Ask the information desk about the "Thousand Country Salt Road" heritage trail map, which is only available in printed form and includes historical markers not listed on digital guides
- Best Photo Opportunity: Visit the viewing platform at the end of the trail leading from the roadside station to the Shimo-iwa viewing area between 4:00 PM and 5:30 PM in autumn for optimal lighting and panoramic views of the valley below
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March–May): Fresh mountain vegetables and wild mushrooms peak in early spring, available at the roadside station’s seasonal menus and markets.
Summer (June–August): The high-altitude wetlands of Chōkōchi Nature Park bloom with alpine flowers like Mizubashō from July through August.
Autumn (September–November): The roadside station features seasonal mountain vegetable dishes and hosts harvest festivals in September and October.
Winter (December–February): Enjoy snow-covered hot spring baths at Shinyama Onsen and winter skiing at Chōkōchi Ski Resort from December to February.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
The roadside station features a dedicated children's playground, stroller-friendly paths, and family-oriented activities. Local crafts and seasonal events engage kids, while the warm, welcoming atmosphere supports families.
Food Lover Review
Offers diverse local cuisine including wild mountain vegetables, mushrooms, and homemade soba. The specialty wild boar dishes and seasonal menus enhance the authentic regional food experience.
Car Camping Review
Provides 24-hour restroom access, ample parking, and nearby campgrounds. Though not a dedicated camping site, the peaceful location and quiet environment support overnight stays.
Scenic Beauty Review
Overlooks the scenic Kusatsu Natural Park and the snowy mountains of the Japanese Alps. The natural surroundings, seasonal flora, and panoramic views offer strong visual appeal.