Discover the Heart of Nature and Tradition at Sakakita
Nestled in the serene embrace of the Northern Alps, Sakakita roadside station lies at the tranquil heart of Chikuhoku Village, a mountain haven where ancient forests meet rolling farmland. Perched at an elevation of 655 meters, this hidden gem offers visitors a rare chance to connect with nature, culture, and local heritage in a landscape shaped by time and tradition.
More than just a pit stop, Sakakita is a vibrant cultural crossroads. Here, travelers can explore centuries-old stone deities at the Shunara Mountain Ankyo Shrine, experience seasonal festivals like the New Soba Festival and autumn harvest celebrations, and savor authentic regional cuisine made from locally grown ingredients. With guided walking routes, onsen access, and immersive hands-on activities, Sakakita invites visitors to slow down, breathe deeply, and rediscover the beauty of rural life.
Why Visit
Sakakita roadside station is home to the only artisanal cheese made from raw milk of local Jersey cows, aged in a traditional mountain cave. Visitors can also experience hands-on rice-planting and harvest festivals in the surrounding terraced fields, where ancient farming rituals meet seasonal celebration. Unlike any other roadside station, it offers guided tours through the sacred stone forest of Shunara Shrine, where 800 moss-covered stone figures stand as silent witnesses to centuries of mountain faith.
Restaurants & Dining
Sakakita roadside station offers a taste of authentic mountain cuisine in a serene setting.
Sakakita Mountain View Restaurant
さかきた山あいレストラン
Specialty
Traditional mountain cuisine with local ingredients
A cozy restaurant offering authentic mountain-style meals using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The atmosphere is warm and rustic, perfect for enjoying hearty dishes while overlooking the scenic North Alps.
Sakakita Farmhouse Cafe
さかきた農家カフェ
Specialty
Homemade pastries and local coffee
A charming farm-style café that blends rustic charm with modern comfort. Known for its homemade treats and locally roasted coffee, it's a peaceful retreat for visitors seeking a quiet moment with a view.
Sakakita Soba Speciality Stall
さかきたそば専門店
Specialty
Handmade buckwheat noodles
A small, vibrant food stall dedicated to serving freshly made soba noodles. The atmosphere is lively and casual, ideal for a quick, authentic bite with a view of the surrounding mountains.
Shopping Highlights
Discover local crafts and seasonal goods at Sakakita’s thoughtfully curated shops.
Sakakita Local Farmers Market
さかきた地元農産物市場
A seasonal market featuring fresh produce, fruits, and vegetables grown by local farmers in the region.
Products
Must-Try Item
Fresh mountain-grown vegetables
Sakakita Craft & Souvenir Shop
さかきた工芸品・お土産店
A boutique shop offering handmade crafts, traditional souvenirs, and locally designed merchandise.
Products
Must-Try Item
Hand-carved wooden animal figurines
Sakakita Mountain Dairy Shop
さかきた山麓乳業店
A specialty shop focusing on artisanal dairy products made from local milk.
Products
Must-Try Item
Aged mountain cheese
Featured Products
Sakakita showcases handcrafted specialties and regional treasures from the heart of the mountains.
Sakakita Mountain Soba Noodles
さかきた山菜そば
Premium handmade buckwheat noodles made with locally milled flour and mountain spring water.
Sakakita Wildflower Honey
さかきた山のハチミツ
Pure wildflower honey harvested from the alpine meadows of the North Alps.
Sakakita Mountain Vegetable Dried Mix
さかきた山菜乾物ミックス
A blend of dried mountain vegetables, perfect for soups and stews.
Sakakita Handmade Pottery Mug
さかきた手作り陶器マグカップ
A unique, handcrafted ceramic mug made by local artisans using traditional techniques.
Facilities & Amenities
Enjoy comfortable amenities and thoughtful services at Sakakita roadside station.
Information Center
The roadside station features an information center providing visitors with local tourism information, maps, and assistance.
Main entrance area
Restroom
Clean and accessible restrooms are available for visitors, including facilities for people with disabilities.
Near the main building
Parking
Ample parking space is provided for vehicles, including designated spots for large vehicles and accessible parking.
Front and side of the roadside station
Free Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the roadside station for visitors to use during their stay.
All areas including waiting and relaxation zones
EV Charging Station
Electric vehicle charging stations are available for visitors using electric cars.
Near the parking area
ATM
An ATM is available on-site for visitors to withdraw cash conveniently.
Near the entrance
Hot Spring (Onsen)
A traditional hot spring facility is available for relaxation and wellness, located nearby the roadside station.
Adjacent to the roadside station
Play Area
A dedicated children's play area with safe equipment for young visitors to enjoy.
Near the outdoor seating area
Nursing Room
A private and comfortable nursing room is available for mothers with infants.
Inside the main building
Bike Rental
Bicycles can be rented on-site for exploring the surrounding area and scenic routes.
Near the entrance
Pet Area
A designated pet-friendly area is available for visitors with pets, including space for walking and resting.
Outside the main building
Activities & Experiences
Participate in seasonal workshops and immersive experiences rooted in local tradition.
Rice Harvesting and Threshing Experience
稲刈り/はぜかけ体験
Participants will experience traditional rice harvesting and threshing activities in a rural farming setting, learning about seasonal agricultural practices.
Duration
120 min
Outdoor activity; may be affected by rain or extreme heat.
Soba Harvest Festival and Autumn Harvest Festival
新そば祭と秋の収穫祭
A seasonal celebration featuring fresh soba (buckwheat) harvests, local food, traditional performances, and community events.
Duration
180 min
Outdoor event; check for weather conditions prior to attendance.
Chikuhoku Mystery Solving Stamp Rally
ちくほく謎解きスタンプラリー
A fun, interactive mystery-solving scavenger hunt using stamps at various locations around the roadside station and village.
Duration
90 min
Outdoor activity; weather may affect route accessibility.
Autumn Gratitude Festival at Nishio Onsen
西条温泉とくら「秋の感謝祭」
A seasonal festival held at Nishio Onsen to express gratitude, featuring local food, cultural performances, and traditional rituals.
Duration
150 min
Indoor and outdoor components; check for weather impact on outdoor events.
Chikuhoku Town Commercial Festival & Den Den Festival
筑北村商工祭＆でんでんフェスタ2025
A year-round festival celebrating local commerce, crafts, and culture with food stalls, live music, and community activities.
Duration
240 min
Partially outdoor; may be affected by rain or extreme weather.
Insider Tips
Gain valuable insights and local knowledge to make the most of your visit to Sakakita.
- Best Arrival Time: Visit between 9:30 AM and 10:30 AM on weekdays to catch the fresh batch of milk bread from the on-site bakery, which is only baked twice daily and sells out by 11:00 AM
- Hidden Gems: Head to the deli counter near the entrance to find the limited-edition seasonal pickled vegetables made from local cucumbers and daikon, available only during August and September
- Weekend Special: On Saturdays, stop by the food truck near the parking lot between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM to try the handcrafted soba noodle bowl made with freshly milled local buckwheat from the New Soba Festival harvest
- Must-Visit Facility: Use the free shuttle service from the roadside station to the Shunara Mountain Sanctuary, which departs every 30 minutes starting at 10:00 AM and runs until 4:00 PM
- Best Purchase Time: Buy the dried mountain herbs and wildflower tea at the gift shop before 3:00 PM, as the selection is refreshed daily and the most complete variety is available in the early afternoon
- Seasonal Experience: Participate in the rice-harvesting demonstration at the community field behind the roadside station on the second Saturday of every September, which begins at 10:00 AM and includes a free tasting of freshly cooked rice
- Photo Opportunity: Walk the short path from the roadside station to the stone Buddha viewing area, located just past the western parking lot, for the best view of the North Alps framed by autumn foliage between late October and early November
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March-May): Fresh bamboo shoots available at the roadside station in April, coinciding with the start of spring harvests.
Summer (June-August): Rice harvesting and straw-stretching experiences held in late August at Sakakita.
Autumn (September-November): New soba harvest festival in early September and autumn gratitude festival in late October.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Sakakita roadside station offers a children's play area, stroller-friendly paths, and family-oriented events like rice harvesting体验. Restrooms and safe parking enhance accessibility. Educational elements include local farming and cultural activities.
Food Lover Review
The station features diverse dining options with local specialties like fresh soba noodles and seasonal harvest dishes. High-quality produce from the farmers market and artisanal food products elevate the culinary experience.
Car Camping Review
Sakakita provides clean restrooms, vending machines, and designated parking. While quiet during evenings, overnight parking is not explicitly stated. Limited facilities reduce comfort for extended stays.
Scenic Beauty Review
Surrounded by majestic North Alps mountains, the station offers stunning views, especially at sunrise and sunset. Seasonal landscapes and photo-worthy viewpoints enhance its natural charm and aesthetic appeal.