Station Nakajo

Savor the Flavors of Autumn in the Heart of Nagano

Nakajo roadside station welcomes travelers to the scenic foothills of Nagano Prefecture, where rolling mountains meet lush forests and vibrant farmland. Nestled in the historic region of Shinshu, this vibrant stop is more than a pit stop—it’s a celebration of local heritage, seasonal bounty, and community spirit. From the crisp air to the warm hospitality, every visit feels like stepping into a living postcard.

What sets Nakajo apart is its dynamic blend of tradition and innovation. Savor the season’s finest with the new chestnut soft cream, a rich and comforting treat that captures autumn’s essence. Indulge in the bold, savory delight of deer meat mushroom don, a regional specialty that highlights the area’s wild ingredients. Don’t miss the limited-edition Shinshu White Peach craft beer set, a unique fusion of local fruit and artisan brewing. Whether exploring seasonal markets, sampling handmade goods, or enjoying a quiet moment with a warm drink, Nakajo offers an authentic taste of the countryside.

Visit Nakajo roadside station to taste the region’s only artisanal chestnut soft cream, a rich, velvety treat made with locally foraged chestnuts and seasonal milk. This unique dessert, newly launched for autumn, offers a deep, earthy sweetness unmatched elsewhere. Complementing it, try the exclusive deer meat mushroom don, a hearty bowl featuring slow-simmered local deer meat and wild mushrooms, a true taste of the area’s mountain heritage.

• Best Arrival Time: Visit between 9:30 AM and 10:30 AM on weekdays to try the new Maron Soft Cream, which is only available from October 29 onward and often sells out by midday
• Hidden Gems: Ask at the deli counter for the newly launched Venison Kino Koudon, a seasonal specialty made with locally sourced venison thigh slices simmered in a sweet and savory sauce, available exclusively at Nakajo roadside station
• Weekend Special: Join the annual Shinshu Mushi Kura Matsuri (held every autumn) to sample authentic regional dishes like Obbuko and Oyaki, and participate in hands-on craft workshops that showcase local traditions
• Exclusive Product Tip: Purchase the limited-edition Kawa Nakashima White Peach Craft Beer Set at the roadside station or Nagano Forest Village—this set is only available in the fall and features beer brewed with fresh white peaches from Kawa Nakashima
• Group Visit Advantage: If visiting with a group of 10 or more, book your visit at least three days in advance to secure dedicated bus parking and request a customized selection of local produce and souvenirs through the group reservation system
• Food Safety Awareness: Stop by the seasonal Kino Shokuchu Chubushu Ten (Mushroom Food Poisoning Prevention Exhibition) held at the roadside station’s sales area to learn how to distinguish edible from poisonous mushrooms—this event is updated annually and features real specimens from the region
• Best Time to Buy Local Produce: Arrive before 11:00 AM on Saturdays and Sundays to find the freshest batch of seasonal mushrooms, which are displayed and sold daily from the roadside station’s adjacent market area

Spring (March–May): Fresh bamboo shoots available at the market from late March to early May.

Summer (June–August): No specific seasonal offerings mentioned in the content.

Autumn (September–November): Peak season for wild mushrooms, with the annual Shinshu Mushi Kura Matsuri held in October.

Winter (December–February): Special seasonal soft serve featuring roasted chestnut flavor from October through winter.