Station Megami no Sato Tateshina (Goddess Village Tateshina)

Discover the Heart of Nagano’s Rural Heritage

Nestled in the serene landscape of northern Nagano Prefecture, Megami no Sato Tateshina (Goddess Village Tateshina) is a roadside station where nature, culture, and community converge. Perched beneath the majestic Asama Mountain Range, the station offers panoramic views of lush rice paddies and rolling farmland, creating a timeless backdrop for travelers seeking authenticity.

More than just a rest stop, Megami no Sato Tateshina is a vibrant cultural hub designed to celebrate local life. Visitors can explore hands-on experience facilities, sample regional specialties at the on-site restaurant and shop, and enjoy scenic views from the adjacent viewing platform. With amenities including free Wi-Fi, EV charging stations, and accessible restrooms, the station ensures a comfortable journey for all. Whether you're passing through or planning an extended visit, this roadside station offers a genuine connection to the spirit of rural Japan.

Megami no Sato Tateshina (Goddess Village Tateshina) stands out for its immersive rural experience centered on the region’s prized rice and mountain vistas. Visitors can sample koshihikari rice grown in the fertile fields beneath the majestic Asama mountain range, the same variety celebrated as one of Japan’s finest. The roadside station’s highlight is its hands-on rice-planting and harvesting workshops, offering a rare chance to participate in traditional farming practices unique to this high-altitude valley. Combined with panoramic views of terraced rice paddies stretching toward the snow-capped peaks, this is a destination where agriculture, nature, and culture converge in a way found nowhere else.

• Best Arrival Time: Arrive by 9:30 AM on weekends to secure a spot at the bakery counter, where fresh-baked milk bread is released daily and typically sells out by 11:00 AM.

• Hidden Gems: Visit the deli counter near the restaurant entrance to find seasonal local specialties like roasted chestnuts and fermented soybean paste (nattō), which are only available during specific months.

• Weekend Special: On Saturdays and Sundays, the experience facility offers a hands-on rice planting demonstration from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM, led by local farmers—reservations are required in advance via the official website.

• Best Photo Spot: Head to the east-facing viewing platform just past the main parking area to capture the full view of the Aso mountain range and surrounding rice paddies, especially during golden hour between 4:30 PM and 6:00 PM.

• Local Product Tip: Purchase the "Kasumi Rice" brand rice from the shop counter—it is grown in the adjacent fields and comes in a 500g package labeled with the harvest date, available only until the end of the season.

• Family-Friendly Facility: Use the baby-changing station located near the restrooms on the east side of the main building; it includes a fold-down table and is equipped with a privacy curtain.

• Free Wi-Fi Access: Connect to the free wireless network named “MegamiNoSato_WiFi” at the information desk near the entrance—this network is available throughout the facility and supports mobile device use for downloading maps or checking real-time updates.

Spring (March–May): Peak season for canola flower viewing (late March–early April) and fresh bamboo shoots available at the market.

Summer (June–August): Ideal for enjoying panoramic views of the rice fields and cool mountain air near the Shinkan Mountains.

Autumn (September–November): Best time for picking chestnuts and experiencing vibrant fall foliage around the shrine.

Winter (December–February): Quiet season with serene landscapes; visit for peaceful walks beneath snow-covered trees.