Discover the Heart of the Kiso Valley at Okuwana
Nestled along National Route 19 in the serene heart of Nagano Prefecture’s Kiso Valley, Okuwana stands as a welcoming gateway to one of Japan’s most storied landscapes. Known locally as "Kikurasha," this roadside station blends traditional craftsmanship with modern hospitality, its architecture inspired by Ise Shrine and crafted entirely from native Kiso cypress. More than a pit stop, it’s a cultural crossroads where travelers connect with local heritage, nature, and the rhythms of rural life.
At Okuwana, visitors savor the region’s finest—freshly baked bread, seasonal pickles like matsu no u no namasu, and locally brewed Sunki sake. The signature restaurant, Kikurasha, offers succulent Kiso beef steak and fresh sanma salmon, while the on-site gift shop delivers authentic regional treasures. Just a short drive away, the legendary Aji Gorge and the sacred Dosei-ji Temple await, making Okuwana the perfect base for exploring the timeless beauty of the Kiso Road.
Why Visit
Visit Okuwana roadside station to taste the region’s only authentic matsunou flower pickle, a rare delicacy made from wild flowers harvested in the pristine forests of the Kiso Valley. Wander through the wooden hall inspired by Ise Shrine, crafted entirely from native Kiso cypress, and savor a perfectly grilled Kiso beef steak at "Gurumeria Kiraku," where the beef is raised in the same mountainous terrain that gives the area its legendary flavor.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor authentic regional flavors at Okuwana’s dining area, where wood-fired specialties and local cuisine delight the palate.
Gourmetia Kiraku
グルメリアきらく
Specialty
Authentic Nagano-style wagyu beef steak
A restaurant offering high-quality, locally sourced meat dishes in a warm and inviting atmosphere. The menu features premium Kiso wagyu beef, known for its tenderness, juiciness, and rich flavor, prepared with care to highlight the natural taste of the ingredients.
Shopping Highlights
Discover unique local treasures at Okuwana’s shop, a gateway to handcrafted goods and seasonal delights.
Kirakusha
木楽舎
A specialty shop offering local products and souvenirs from the Kiso region, including pickled vegetables, traditional snacks, and regional beverages.
Products
Must-Try Item
Kiso Pine Needle Pickle
Freshly Baked Bread Shop
焼たてパンの店
A small bakery specializing in freshly baked bread using local ingredients, available daily.
Products
Must-Try Item
Wood-fired sourdough loaf
Featured Products
Experience signature items like pickled matsu no u flower and sun-kissed suki pickle, crafted with care from the heart of the region.
Kiso Pine Needle Pickle
ますのうの花漬け
A traditional pickle made from pine needles of the Kiso region, known for its unique aroma and tangy flavor. Made using time-honored methods passed down through generations.
Sunki Pickle
すんき漬け
A local specialty pickle made from seasonal vegetables, known for its crisp texture and savory taste. A traditional product of the region, enjoyed as a side dish or snack.
Kiso Forest Wine
木曽の杣酒
A locally brewed rice wine made from traditional recipes using water from the Kiso mountains. Known for its smooth, slightly sweet flavor and refreshing finish.
Roasted Sweet Potato
焼き芋
Freshly roasted sweet potatoes, harvested from local farms. Known for their creamy texture and natural sweetness, ideal as a seasonal treat.
Facilities & Amenities
Relax and recharge with spacious rest areas, clean restrooms, EV charging, and convenient amenities at Okuwana.
Parking Area
The roadside station has parking space for 4 large vehicles and 75 regular vehicles, including 1 accessible parking space.
Near the main entrance
Restroom
The facility includes 17 male toilets and 14 female toilets, with a ramp available for accessibility.
Inside the main building
Wi-Fi Access
Free Wi-Fi is available for visitors at the roadside station.
Throughout the facility
Information Center
An information corner provides visitors with local tourism information, maps, and assistance.
Inside the main building
Play Area
A designated area for children to play, located within the roadside station premises.
Near the main building
EV Charging Station
An electric vehicle charging facility is available for visitors.
Near the parking area
ATM
An ATM is available on-site for visitor convenience.
Near the entrance
Pet Area
A designated space for pets, allowing visitors to bring their animals safely.
Outside the main building
Insider Tips
Visit on weekdays for quieter exploration and arrive early to enjoy fresh seasonal produce and limited-time offerings.
- Best Arrival Time: Visit between 9:00–10:00 AM on weekends to secure the day’s first batch of fresh-baked milk bread from the on-site bakery, which sells out by 11:00 AM
- Hidden Gems: At the wooden counter in the Kurakusha (wooden craft shop), look for the seasonal matsunou no hana zuke (flower pickle made from wild mountain flowers) and sunki zuke (pickled wild vegetables), both exclusive to Okuwana and only available during their brief seasonal runs
- Weekend Special: On Saturdays and Sundays, visit the Kurakusha counter between 11:00 AM and 12:00 PM to purchase limited-edition seasonal gifts like the Sang no ha (mulberry leaf-based snacks) and Yama no kou (wild mountain vegetable bundles)
- Best Dining Time: Order the Kiso beef steak at Gurumeria Kikaru between 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM on weekdays to avoid the lunchtime rush and ensure seating at the counter with the best view of the outdoor garden
- Seasonal Find: Stop by the Kurakusha shop in early October to buy roasted sweet potatoes (yamaimo) sold only during the autumn harvest season, available daily from 10:00 AM until sold out
- Best Photo Spot: Take a 10-minute walk from the roadside station to the Aji Gorge (Aji Ravine), where the legendary beautiful face water (a clear, mineral-rich spring) flows—use the spring’s reflection to capture a striking image of the surrounding cedar trees and moss-covered rocks
- Avoid Wait Times: Use the EV charging station located just outside the main entrance between 9:00 AM and 10:30 AM on weekdays to charge your vehicle without waiting, as the station is least busy during these hours and the power is free for roadside station visitors
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March-May): Fresh bamboo shoots and early-season mulberry leaves available at the roadside station; limited seasonal treats like early tatami shoots and seasonal gifts.
Summer (June-August): Peak season for pine mushrooms and grilled sweet potatoes; summer mountain air enhances visits to nearby Aji Gorge.
Autumn (September-November): First matsutake mushrooms arrive in late September; autumn harvests include wild greens and seasonal produce.
Winter (December-February): Limited seasonal offerings; ideal for experiencing the quiet beauty of the region and nearby hot springs.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Offers a spacious wooden facility with restrooms, stroller access, and a children’s play area. Features kid-friendly food options like fresh baked goods and local snacks. Educational elements include seasonal product displays and nearby natural attractions.
Food Lover Review
Features diverse dining options including a dedicated restaurant serving premium Kiso beef and seasonal specialties. Offers high-quality local products such as matsunou flower pickles and fresh seasonal produce. The on-site bakery adds artisan appeal.
Car Camping Review
Provides ample parking for cars and large vehicles, with restrooms and vending machines available. Quiet surroundings and a peaceful atmosphere support overnight stays. No explicit overnight parking policy is stated.
Scenic Beauty Review
Located near the scenic Aji Gorge with lush forested mountains and natural water sources. Offers excellent photo opportunities with seasonal landscapes and a serene, aesthetically pleasing environment.