Discover the Heart of Shinano’s Farm-to-Table Tradition
Nestled in the lush hills of Nagano Prefecture, Shinano roadside station is a vibrant gateway to rural Japan’s agricultural soul. Located along the scenic National Route 19, it offers travelers a refreshing pause amid rolling fields and ancient cedar forests, blending natural beauty with authentic local charm.
What sets Shinano apart is its dedication to showcasing regional treasures, most notably the famed Fujirin apples, celebrated for their crisp sweetness and vibrant color. Every autumn, the station hosts the popular Fujirin Apple Direct Sale, drawing visitors eager to taste and purchase these prized fruits straight from the orchard. Beyond apples, guests can explore seasonal produce, handmade crafts, and regional delicacies—all nurtured by generations of local farmers. Shinano is more than a stop; it’s a celebration of community, sustainability, and the simple joy of fresh, local flavor.
Why Visit
Shinano roadside station stands out for its exclusive Fujirin Apple Festival, where visitors can taste and purchase the region’s prized Fujirin apples—known for their crisp sweetness and deep crimson skin—direct from local orchards. The station also features the only on-site artisanal milk ice cream made with fresh Jersey cow milk from nearby farms, a seasonal treat unavailable elsewhere.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor fresh, locally crafted meals at Shinano roadside station, where regional flavors meet seasonal ingredients.
Shinano Soba Restaurant
しなのそば
Specialty
Traditional buckwheat noodles made with local ingredients
A cozy eatery specializing in handmade soba noodles, crafted using locally sourced buckwheat flour. The atmosphere is rustic and welcoming, perfect for a relaxing meal with a view of the surrounding countryside.
Farmers' Market Café
地場産品カフェ
Specialty
Fresh local produce and homemade pastries
A charming café that serves light meals and baked goods made from seasonal ingredients sourced directly from nearby farms. The ambiance is warm and inviting, ideal for a midday break.
Sake & Snack Food Stall
酒とおつまみ屋台
Specialty
Local sake and traditional Japanese snacks
A lively food stall offering a variety of regional sake and small bites perfect for pairing. The atmosphere is casual and social, ideal for enjoying a drink with friends or family.
Shopping Highlights
Explore a curated selection of local goods and artisanal products at Shinano roadside station, perfect for unique souvenirs.
Local Produce Market
地場産品直売所
A marketplace selling fresh, locally grown fruits, vegetables, and seasonal produce directly from nearby farms.
Products
Must-Try Item
Fuji Apples
Craft & Souvenir Shop
工芸品・お土産屋
A boutique shop offering handmade crafts and regional souvenirs made by local artisans.
Products
Must-Try Item
Handwoven Bamboo Basket
Bakery & Confectionery
パン屋と菓子屋
A small bakery specializing in fresh bread, pastries, and traditional Japanese confections.
Products
Must-Try Item
Matcha Mochi
Featured Products
Discover Shinano’s signature specialties, including the famed Fujiringo apples and other regional treasures.
Fuji Apples
ふじりんご
Crisp, sweet apples grown in the region, known for their bright red color and juicy texture.
Local Honey
地元ハチミツ
Pure, unfiltered honey harvested from local wildflowers and orchards.
Handwoven Bamboo Basket
手編み竹かご
A beautifully crafted bamboo basket made by local artisans using traditional techniques.
Matcha Mochi
抹茶餅
Soft, chewy mochi filled with sweet matcha paste, made with premium green tea.
Insider Tips
Plan your visit around the annual Fujiringo apple market for the freshest harvest and local charm at Shinano roadside station.
- Best Arrival Time: Arrive by 9:30 AM on weekends to secure fresh-baked milk bread from the on-site bakery, which sells out by 11:00 AM
- Hidden Gems: Visit the deli counter near the entrance to find seasonal local honey and handmade pickled vegetables made from apples grown in the surrounding region
- Weekend Special: On Saturdays and Sundays, the fruit stand in front of the local produce sales hall offers discounted Fuji apples between 1:00–2:00 PM
- Must-Try Product: Try the locally made apple jam available only at the counter labeled “Handcrafted by Shinano Farmers” — it's made from apples harvested in the nearby orchards
- Parking Tip: Use the far-right parking lot near the apple orchard entrance to avoid congestion at the main entrance during peak hours
- Best Time for Local Crafts: Stop by the craft corner between 3:00–4:30 PM on weekdays when local artisans are present to demonstrate traditional apple-themed pottery
- Seasonal Event Alert: Join the Fuji Apple Direct Sales Event held daily from October 24 to November 10, located in front of the local produce sales hall — this is the only place to buy freshly harvested apples directly from farmers
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March–May): Fresh bamboo shoots available at the market in early spring; canola flower picking peaks in late March to April.
Summer (June–August): No specific seasonal events mentioned.
Autumn (September–November): Fujirin apple sales begin in mid-October, with the annual apple market held on October 24.
Winter (December–February): No seasonal activities or products listed.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Shinano roadside station features a children's play area, stroller-friendly paths, and family-oriented facilities. Kid-friendly food options and interactive farm activities enhance the experience, though more structured educational elements would improve it further.
Food Lover Review
The station offers a variety of high-quality local restaurants and fresh produce, including a popular apple sales event featuring local Fuji apples. Artisan food products and seasonal specialties contribute to a rich culinary experience.
Car Camping Review
Shinano provides clean restrooms, vending machines, and designated parking. While it is quiet and suitable for short stays, overnight parking is not clearly permitted, limiting its appeal for extended car camping.
Scenic Beauty Review
The roadside station is set in a scenic rural landscape with views of orchards and surrounding hills. Seasonal beauty, especially during apple harvest, enhances the atmosphere, and well-maintained viewpoints offer excellent photo opportunities.