Discover the Heart of Rural Japan at Minami Shinshu Urugi
Tucked along the scenic R418 highway between R151 and R153, Minami Shinshu Urugi is a roadside station rooted in the quiet charm of a traditional mountain village in Nagano Prefecture. Once a beloved community hub known as the "Urugi Hometown Museum," it has evolved into a vibrant regional gateway, welcoming travelers with a focus on authenticity, local flavor, and peaceful retreats.
What sets this roadside station apart is its seamless blend of nature, culture, and community. Visitors can savor fresh regional produce at the on-site market, enjoy farm-to-table meals at the cozy "kitchen sarunokishakake," and explore nearby natural wonders like the Urugi Star Forest Campground and the Tea-Brush Mountain Nature Park. With free Wi-Fi, rest areas, and a dedication to sustainable tourism, Minami Shinshu Urugi isn’t just a stop—it’s a heartfelt invitation to slow down and connect with the spirit of the Japanese countryside.
Why Visit
Minami Shinshu Urugi stands out as the only roadside station in the region where visitors can taste the rare, handcrafted milk ice cream made from Jersey cow milk raised in the local highlands. Its signature dish, the urugi-style ramen, features a rich, slow-simmered broth using locally grown mountain vegetables and seasonal wild herbs, a recipe passed down through generations. Nestled along R418, it offers a quiet retreat with panoramic views of the unspoiled Nagano countryside, where ancient rice terraces and cedar forests frame the landscape.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor authentic local flavors at Minami Shinshu Urugi roadside station.
Kitchen Sarunokoshikake
kitchen さるのこしかけ
Specialty
Local cuisine with seasonal ingredients
A cozy dining space offering traditional regional dishes made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, perfect for a relaxed meal during a road trip.
Shopping Highlights
Discover unique local goods and seasonal treasures at Minami Shinshu Urugi.
Urughi Furusato Kan
農産物直売所「うるぎふるさと館」
A direct sales outlet for fresh local agricultural products from the region.
Products
Must-Try Item
Local Honey
Featured Products
Explore signature specialties and regional delights crafted with care.
Local Honey
地元はちみつ
Pure, natural honey harvested from local wildflowers and orchards in the region.
Soba Flour from Local Buckwheat
地元そば粉
High-quality buckwheat flour made from locally grown buckwheat, ideal for homemade soba noodles.
Dried Mountain Vegetables
山菜の干し物
Traditional dried mountain vegetables collected from the surrounding forests, preserving natural flavor.
Facilities & Amenities
Relax and recharge with thoughtful amenities at Minami Shinshu Urugi.
Parking Area
The roadside station has parking space for 24 regular cars and 2 large vehicles.
On-site
Restroom
There are 7 male toilets and 5 female toilets. One of the female toilets is equipped for ostomy users.
On-site
Free Wi-Fi
Free wireless LAN is available at the roadside station.
On-site
Information Counter
An information corner is available for visitors to get local information and assistance.
On-site
Play Area
A free rest area is available for visitors to relax and take a break.
On-site
EV Charging Station
The roadside station provides electric vehicle charging facilities.
On-site
ATM
A public telephone is available on-site.
On-site
Insider Tips
Maximize your visit with insider knowledge and local recommendations.
- Best Arrival Time: Arrive by 9:30 AM on weekdays to secure a seat at the kitchen さるのこしかけ café before the 11:00 AM lunch rush, as the morning menu items like the seasonal vegetable omelet sell out quickly
- Hidden Gems: Visit the deli counter between 10:00 AM and 11:00 AM to find the day’s limited batch of hand-packed udon noodles made from locally grown wheat and sold only during the farming season
- Weekend Special: On Sundays, check the information corner by 10:00 AM for the schedule of the “Uruji Nature Walk” guided tour, which departs from the roadside station and lasts 90 minutes through the nearby tea-planting fields
- Best Purchase Time: Buy the seasonal pickled mountain vegetables at the agricultural sales counter before 12:00 PM, as they are restocked only once daily and often sell out by early afternoon
- Free Wi-Fi Access: Use the free Wi-Fi at the information corner during the 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM window when network congestion is lowest—ideal for checking real-time updates on nearby camping sites
- Camping Info Hub: Ask staff at the information corner before 1:00 PM on weekends for the current availability of the urugi star forest auto campsite, which accepts reservations up to 48 hours in advance
- Local Event Alert: Attend the “Together Connecting Everyone” community gathering on December 6, 2025, at 10:00 AM—held at the roadside station’s main hall, featuring live music and local food tastings from regional farmers
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March–May): Canola flowers bloom from late March to April, and fresh bamboo shoots are available at the market in early spring.
Summer (June–August): Fresh strawberries are harvested in early summer, and the roadside station hosts seasonal farm events.
Autumn (September–November): Chestnuts are harvested in October, and the autumn foliage peaks in mid-November.
Winter (December–February): The roadside station offers warm local meals, and the surrounding mountains provide quiet winter scenery.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Offers a children's play area, stroller-friendly paths, and kid-friendly meals. Includes educational elements like local farming displays and a family-friendly atmosphere with rest areas and clear signage.
Food Lover Review
Features a variety of local dishes and fresh produce from the on-site market. Highlights regional specialties like mountain vegetables and seasonal ingredients, with a dedicated restaurant serving authentic local cuisine.
Car Camping Review
Provides basic facilities including restrooms and vending machines. Offers quiet surroundings and adequate parking, though overnight stays are not officially permitted. Suitable for short rest stops.
Scenic Beauty Review
Located in a serene rural landscape with scenic views of mountains and forests. Offers photo-worthy spots near the natural surroundings and seasonal beauty throughout the year, enhancing its peaceful atmosphere.