Discover Nature, Wellness, and Local Flavor at Toyamago
Nestled along the scenic National Route 152 in the heart of Minamiboso, Toyamago is a roadside station where mountain and valley meet in harmony. Surrounded by lush forests and rolling farmland, this vibrant hub offers travelers more than just a rest stop—it’s a gateway to the authentic spirit of southern Nagano. The station’s centerpiece is the revitalized kagura no Yu, a high-concentration chloride therapeutic hot spring nestled within a traditional hinoki timber building, where guests can unwind in open-air baths framed by pristine natural scenery.
At Toyamago, local culture comes alive through the acclaimed restaurant Yoki Kana, serving hearty specialties like wild game ramen, trout cutlet set, and the famed Toyamago Jinguisuke bowl. Visitors can also explore the nearby sacred water source, Kannon Reisui, or stroll to the Toyamago Folk Museum. With its warm hospitality, rich regional flavors, and immersive natural beauty, Toyamago is a must-visit destination for travelers seeking an authentic Japanese countryside experience.
Why Visit
Visit Toyamago for its rare natural sulfur-rich saltwater hot spring, Kagura no Yu—one of the few of its kind in the region, offering therapeutic bathing in a wooden lodge surrounded by alpine scenery. The roadside station also hosts the only local restaurant serving authentic Yamanami Genghis Khan and wild deer stew, both made with ingredients sourced directly from the surrounding mountains.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor local flavors at Toyamago's restaurant, where seasonal dishes like Yamaame and deer rice bowls are prepared with care.
Yokikana
善き叶
Specialty
Local cuisine featuring regional ingredients
A regional restaurant offering a variety of dishes made with locally sourced ingredients, including grilled lamb, deer meat, and local trout. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, emphasizing the natural beauty of the surrounding mountains and forests.
Ocha no Ko
お茶の子
Specialty
Light refreshments and tea-based beverages
A cozy café offering light snacks, homemade desserts, and a variety of teas. The ambiance is relaxed and rustic, perfect for a quiet break amidst nature.
Shopping Highlights
Discover fresh local produce and regional specialties at Toyamago's market, perfect for unique souvenirs.
Yoshimaruya
吉丸屋
A specialty shop selling fresh local produce, regional souvenirs, daily necessities, and food items. Features products from the wider Nagano region, including famous confections from Shizuoka Mizuwa.
Products
Must-Try Item
Shizuoka Mizuwa Famous Confection
Featured Products
Try signature items like Yamaame delicacies and local treats crafted from mountain-grown ingredients.
Kagura no Yu Hot Spring Water
かぐらの湯温泉
Natural mineral-rich hot spring water from the high-concentration chloride thermal spring, known for its therapeutic properties and soothing effects on skin and muscles.
Yamame Fish Fillets
やまめ
Freshly caught wild trout fillets from the Yamanogawa River, known for their delicate flavor and firm texture. Ideal for grilling or frying.
Yamaginchi Seasoning Blend
遠山ジンギス用スパイス
Authentic spice blend specifically formulated for preparing traditional Yamaginchi lamb dishes, enhancing flavor with regional herbs and spices.
Shika Meat Jerky
シカ肉のつぶ
Dried deer meat jerky made from locally sourced deer, seasoned with natural spices and sun-dried for a rich, savory taste.
Facilities & Amenities
Relax in natural hot springs or enjoy free rest stops, toilets, and parking at Toyamago's roadside station.
Parking Area
The roadside station has parking space for 10 large vehicles and 104 regular vehicles.
At the roadside station premises
Toilet Facilities
There are 13 male toilets and 11 female toilets, with 2 toilets equipped with ramps for accessibility.
At the roadside station premises
Free Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi is available for visitors at the roadside station.
Throughout the premises
Tourism Information Center
The center provides information on the Yamanashi region, Iida Valley, and Mikawa Valley. Open from 9:00 to 17:00 daily.
Inside the roadside station
Kagura no Yu Hot Spring
A low-salinity alkaline sulfur sodium chloride hot spring. Admission fees: 800 yen for adults, 400 yen for elementary school students, free for children under elementary school age. Open from 11:00 to 21:00.
At the roadside station premises
EV Charging Station
Electric vehicle charging facilities are available at the roadside station.
At the roadside station premises
Nursing Room
A dedicated room for nursing mothers, equipped with facilities for infants and young children.
Inside the roadside station
Pet-Friendly Area
An area designated for pets, allowing visitors to bring their animals to the roadside station.
At the roadside station premises
ATM
An automated teller machine is available for visitors' convenience.
At the roadside station premises
Play Area
A space for children to play, located near the riverbank where river activities are available.
Near the Yamanagi River
Insider Tips
Visit early to avoid crowds, and bring cash for small vendors and the on-site market.
- Best Arrival Time: Arrive by 10:30 AM on weekdays to secure a seat at the "Yokikana" restaurant before the 11:00 AM opening, as the popular Yamanami Fried Rice Set often sells out by 12:30 PM
- Hidden Gems: Visit the "Yoshimaru-ya" specialty shop before 4:00 PM to get the last selection of freshly harvested local vegetables and the limited-edition "Shizuoka Mizukura" signature sweets, which are restocked only once per week
- Weekend Special: On Saturdays and Sundays, arrive by 11:00 AM to participate in the free "handheld barbecue" session at the riverbank area, where grills and charcoal are provided for guests using the "Yamanami River Play" zone
- Best Bath Time: Visit "Kagura no Yu" hot spring between 1:00 PM and 3:00 PM on weekdays to enjoy the low-traffic hours and the full range of bath facilities, including the natural-view open-air bath and the foot bath
- Insider Dining Tip: Order the "Yamanami Fried Rice Set" at "Yokikana" restaurant during lunch hours (11:00 AM – 2:30 PM) and request the side of pickled vegetables from the "Yoshimaru-ya" counter — they are not listed on the menu but are available daily
- Unique Experience: Use the 24-hour rest stop between 9:00 PM and 6:00 AM to access the free rest area and the automatic vending machines, which include rare local drinks like "Kagura no Yu" mineral water and "Yamanami Forest" herbal tea
- Navigation Tip: When visiting the "Yamanami River Play" zone, follow the path marked with wooden signposts labeled "Kagura no Yu" — the route is clearly indicated but not shown on general maps, making it easy to miss without guidance
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March-May): Fresh bamboo shoots available at the market in early spring; canola flowers bloom in late March to April.
Summer (June-August): Ideal for outdoor activities including river play in the Yama River and hand-grilled BBQs.
Autumn (September-November): Peak season for local produce and scenic views along the mountainous route.
Winter (December-February): Best for soaking in the salt-rich "Kagura no Yu" hot spring during cold months.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Features include a children's play area, stroller-friendly paths, and a family-oriented restaurant offering kid-friendly meals. The facility has restrooms with baby-changing amenities and is safe and accessible for families.
Food Lover Review
Offers diverse local cuisine including signature dishes like Yamanegi Don and deer stew. Features fresh produce from local farms, artisanal goods, and a well-regarded restaurant serving regional specialties.
Car Camping Review
Provides restrooms, vending machines, and ample parking. While not designed as a formal campsite, it allows overnight stays with quiet surroundings and 24-hour access to restrooms and parking.
Scenic Beauty Review
Located in a scenic mountain valley with views of the Southern Alps and Iida Mountains. Offers picturesque viewpoints, seasonal landscapes, and a serene atmosphere enhanced by natural surroundings.