Savor the Flavors of South Shinshu at Shinanoji Shimojo
Nestled in the lush heart of Nagano Prefecture’s southern Alps, Shinanoji Shimojo is a roadside station that celebrates the rich culinary heritage of the region. Surrounded by rolling farmland and towering mountain vistas, this vibrant stop offers travelers a full day of discovery—from fresh local produce to hands-on cultural experiences.
At the heart of the station lies "Soba no Jo," a charming building where visitors can enjoy handmade soba noodles made from the village’s own high-quality buckwheat. Try the popular "grated soba" with the famed Shimojo spicy radish or indulge in a hearty soba buffet. Nearby, the "Umai Monogatari" shop showcases regional specialties, while the on-site "Takadoya Foods" butcher shop offers premium local meat. Just a short walk away, the scenic Cosmo's Spa provides relaxing hot springs with panoramic views of the Central and South Alps—perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.
Why Visit
Shinanoji Shimojo stands out as the only roadside station in the region where you can experience authentic soba-making using locally grown, stone-ground buckwheat in a historic-style building called "Soba no Shiro." Here, visitors can savor the signature Orosoba—freshly grated Kinpira Daikon radish served with hand-pulled soba—and enjoy unlimited soba tasting. The station also houses the only on-site milk ice cream shop in the area, featuring creamy ice cream made from Jersey cow milk sourced directly from the nearby pasture.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor authentic local flavors at Shinanoji Shimojo roadside station, where handmade soba and seasonal specialties await.
Soba Castle
そばの城
Specialty
Traditional soba noodles made on-site with local ingredients
A charming restaurant located within the roadside station, offering a cozy atmosphere where visitors can enjoy freshly made soba noodles. The restaurant emphasizes local craftsmanship and traditional preparation methods, providing a genuine taste of the region's culinary heritage.
Milk Workshop Yumigakko
みるく工房遊牧館
Specialty
Artisanal dairy products and milk-based desserts
A charming café offering a relaxed atmosphere with a focus on fresh, locally produced dairy. Guests can enjoy handmade milk-based treats and beverages in a rustic, countryside setting.
Shopping Highlights
Discover regional treasures and farm-fresh goods at Shinanoji Shimojo’s curated retail spaces.
Delicious Foods Hall
うまいもの館
A retail shop specializing in local specialty foods and regional products from Shimojo Village.
Products
Must-Try Item
Kinpira radish pickles
Takadoya Foods
たかどやフーズ
A farm-direct meat shop offering high-quality, locally raised beef and pork.
Products
Must-Try Item
Grilled beef skewers
Soba Castle Special Products Shop
そばの城特産品販売所
A general retail shop selling a variety of local products, including soba noodles and regional snacks.
Products
Must-Try Item
Soba flour
Featured Products
Sample signature items like spicy kinpira daikon and premium handmade soba, crafted with local pride.
Soba Noodles
そば麺
Handmade soba noodles made from locally grown buckwheat, known for their rich flavor and firm texture
Kinpira Radish Pickles
親田辛味大根漬物
Spicy pickled radishes made from Shimojo Village's famous kinpira radish, known for their bold flavor and crunch
Soba Flour
そば粉
Premium buckwheat flour produced from locally grown soba, ideal for home cooking and baking
Local Honey
地元はちみつ
Natural honey harvested from wildflowers in the mountainous regions of Shimojo Village
Dried Fruits
ドライフルーツ
Sun-dried fruits made from seasonal produce grown in the region, preserving natural sweetness
Facilities & Amenities
Enjoy comfortable amenities including restrooms, free Wi-Fi, EV charging, and relaxing休息 areas.
Parking Area
The roadside station has parking for 8 large vehicles and 35 regular cars.
On-site
Restroom
The station has 17 male toilets and 12 female toilets, with 3 toilet stalls and wheelchair-accessible facilities including ramps.
On-site
Free Wi-Fi
Free wireless LAN is available for visitors.
On-site
Information Corner
An information corner is available for visitors to get local information and assistance.
On-site
Soba Making Experience
Visitors can enjoy hands-on soba making experience at the station.
On-site
Cosmos no Yu Hot Spring
A day-use hot spring facility located about 2 minutes by car from the roadside station, offering panoramic views of the Chūbu and South Alps mountains and the Iida Valley.
Approximately 2 minutes by car
EV Charging Station
An electric vehicle charging facility is available at the roadside station.
On-site
Activities & Experiences
Immerse yourself in hands-on experiences such as soba-making workshops and seasonal cultural events.
Soba Making Experience
そば打ち体験
Participants will learn and practice traditional soba noodle making using locally produced buckwheat flour, experiencing the hands-on process of kneading, rolling, and cutting fresh soba noodles.
Duration
60 min
Insider Tips
Visit early to enjoy quiet mornings and explore nearby Cosmos no Yu hot spring for stunning mountain views.
- Best Arrival Time: Arrive by 10:00 AM on weekends to secure a spot for the daily soba-making experience, which starts at 10:30 AM and fills up quickly
- Hidden Gems: Visit the "Umai Monogatari" (Deliciousness Hall) counter between 11:00 AM and 12:30 PM to purchase freshly made soba noodles and limited-edition seasonal bundles from the local producer
- Weekend Special: On Saturdays and Sundays, visit the "Takadoya Foods" butcher counter between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM to buy the day’s fresh beef cuts, which are sourced directly from the on-site pasture and often sell out by noon
- Must-Try Food: Order the "Oroshisoba" (grated soba) with the local specialty kinpira takanohana radish at the "Soba no Shiro" restaurant between 12:00 PM and 1:30 PM, when the dish is served with the day’s freshest radish
- Best Time for Free Soba: Visit the "Soba no Shiro" cafeteria at 1:00 PM on weekdays to enjoy the daily "free soba tasting" event, where you can sample three different varieties of house-made soba
- Parking Tip: Use the two reserved parking spots near the entrance to the "Soba no Shiro" building if you plan to participate in the soba-making workshop, as general parking fills up by 10:30 AM
- EV Charging: Plug in your vehicle at the EV charging station located near the "Milk Factory Yumigaku" building between 9:00 AM and 11:00 AM to avoid peak congestion and ensure a full charge before your next stop
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March–May): Canola flowers bloom in late March to April, and fresh bamboo shoots are available at the market.
Summer (June–August): Soba harvesting begins in July, with fresh soba noodles served daily.
Autumn (September–November): Harvest season for Koshu radishes peaks in October, used in local dishes.
Winter (December–February): The nearby Cosmos no Yu hot spring offers scenic views, ideal for relaxing in cold weather.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
A dedicated soba-making experience, stroller-friendly paths, and ample restrooms make it highly suitable for families. Playful elements and child-friendly food options enhance the appeal.
Food Lover Review
Features high-quality local specialties like roasted soba and kinpira gobo. The on-site soba shop and fresh produce market offer excellent variety and authentic regional flavors.
Car Camping Review
Offers basic overnight facilities including restrooms and parking. While not designed for camping, quiet hours and accessible amenities allow for comfortable short stays.
Scenic Beauty Review
Overlooks the Iida Valley and Central Alps, providing scenic views from the roadside station and nearby hot spring facility. Seasonal landscapes enhance visual appeal.