Discover the Heart of Shinshu at Ueda Station of Road and River
Nestled along the scenic Chikuma River in Ueda City, Ueda Station of Road and River is more than a rest stop—it’s a vibrant cultural oasis where nature, tradition, and community converge. Surrounded by lush greenery and framed by the majestic silhouette of Mount Asama, this roadside station offers panoramic views, seasonal events, and a deep connection to the region’s agricultural roots.
Known for its award-winning apples and creative local treats like mulberry soft serve and the famed “Three Foolish Trio Burger,” the station celebrates the spirit of Shinshu with charm and authenticity. Visitors can enjoy farm-fresh produce, participate in hands-on experiences, or simply relax by the river. With a strong focus on sustainability and community resilience, Ueda Station of Road and River stands as a true haven for travelers seeking genuine Japanese countryside warmth.
Why Visit
Ueda Station of Road and River stands out as the only roadside station in the region offering handmade mulberry fruit soft serve, crafted from locally grown silkworm mulberries harvested at the nearby Yanezawa Sericulture Farm. Visitors can also savor the nationally recognized "Three Idiots Burger," a local specialty made with fresh, regionally sourced beef. Perched along the Chikuma River, the station delivers panoramic views of Upper Yamanashi and Mount Asama, accessible via a scenic riverside walking path.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor local flavors at Ueda Station of Road and River, where fresh apples and unique treats like mulberry soft serve await.
Sang's Fruit Soft
桑の実ソフト
Specialty
Fresh mulberry soft serve
A charming food stall offering refreshing soft serve made from locally grown mulberries, perfect for a sweet treat during your visit.
Grape Smoothie Stand
ぶどうスムージー
Specialty
Fresh grape smoothies
A vibrant kiosk serving chilled grape smoothies made from locally harvested grapes, ideal for a refreshing drink on a sunny day.
Three Idiots Burger
３馬鹿トリオ
Specialty
Famous nationwide best burger
A popular burger restaurant known for its bold flavors and fun, quirky atmosphere, offering a unique dining experience with a local twist.
Shopping Highlights
Discover regional crafts and seasonal goods at Ueda Station of Road and River, perfect for thoughtful souvenirs.
Apple Producer Market
りんご生産者
A market featuring fresh apples directly from local producers in Nagano Prefecture.
Products
Must-Try Item
Premium-grade apples
Grape Festival Shop
ぶどうフェア
A specialty shop offering grape-themed souvenirs and products from the annual grape festival.
Products
Must-Try Item
Grape jam
Mulberry Craft Shop
桑の実工芸
A craft shop specializing in handmade items made from mulberry fibers and natural dyes.
Products
Must-Try Item
Mulberry paper
Featured Products
Sample signature specialties like premium Shinshu apples, horse-radish burgers, and mulberry soft serve, crafted with local pride.
Premium Apples
極上品
Hand-selected, high-quality apples from the region, known for their sweetness and crisp texture.
Grape Jam
ぶどうジャム
Artisanal grape jam made from locally grown grapes, perfect for spreading on bread or using in recipes.
Mulberry Paper
桑の実紙
Handmade paper crafted from mulberry fibers, known for its durability and natural texture.
Facilities & Amenities
Enjoy convenient amenities including restrooms, parking, and a disaster preparedness hub at Ueda Station of Road and River.
Information Center
The information center provides visitors with details about the roadside station, events, nearby attractions, and local services.
Inside the roadside station premises
Parking Area
A designated parking area is available for visitors' vehicles.
Adjacent to the main entrance of the roadside station
Restroom
Clean and accessible restrooms are available for visitors.
Near the main building and visitor entrance
Free Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the roadside station for visitors' convenience.
Throughout the facility, including indoor and outdoor areas
Play Area
A children's play area is available for families to enjoy, promoting fun and relaxation.
Near the outdoor recreational zone
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.
Near the entrance of the main building
Nursing Room
A private nursing room is provided for mothers with infants.
Inside the restroom building
Pet Area
A designated area for pets to rest and relieve themselves, supporting pet-friendly visits.
Near the outdoor walking path
Insider Tips
Visit during harvest season for the best produce, and explore the scenic river views and live camera feed for real-time updates.
- Best Arrival Time: Arrive by 9:30 AM on weekends to secure a seat at the bakery counter before the fresh-baked milk bread sells out—this is available only during weekend mornings and typically sells out by 11:00 AM.
- Hidden Gems: Visit the deli counter between 10:00 AM and 11:30 AM to find the limited daily batch of homemade apple jam, made from local Nagano apples and sold only during the autumn harvest season.
- Weekend Special: On Saturdays and Sundays, stop by the food truck near the parking lot between 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM to try the “Sangno-shi Burger,” the nationally recognized top-rated burger served only at Ueda Station of Road and River.
- Seasonal Product Alert: During the grape festival in September, purchase the signature Grape Smoothie from the outdoor stand between 1:00 PM and 6:00 PM—only available during the event and made from freshly harvested local grapes.
- Photo Opportunity: Take a photo at the riverbank viewing platform between 4:00 PM and 6:00 PM on weekdays to capture the best sunset views of the Chikuma River and Mount Asama, especially when the live camera feed shows clear skies.
- Event Timing: Attend the “Pet Calendar 2026 Photo Shoot” event on October 29th from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM to take photos with trained dogs and receive a free digital copy of your photo.
- Local Product Tip: Buy the Mulberry Fruit Soft served at the soft-serve stand before 5:00 PM, as it is made fresh daily using mulberries from the local area and often runs out by late afternoon.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March–May): Canola flowers bloom in late April, and fresh bamboo shoots are available at the market through May.
Summer (June–August): The roadside station hosts the Grape Fair in mid-September, with fresh grapes and smoothies available.
Autumn (September–November): The Autumn Harvest Festival runs from late September to early October, featuring grape tastings and pet photo events.
Winter (December–February): Limited seasonal activities; focus shifts to quiet visits and nearby scenic views.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Offers play areas, family events, and interactive experiences like the pet dog show. Features kid-friendly food options and stroller-accessible paths. Educational activities and nature play enhance appeal for families.
Food Lover Review
Features diverse local specialties including premium apples, mulberry soft serve, and grape smoothies. Offers fresh produce and artisanal food items. Includes unique items like the 'Three Idiots Burger' and seasonal festivals highlighting regional cuisine.
Car Camping Review
Provides restrooms, vending machines, and parking. Offers a quiet, scenic environment with views of the Chikuma River and Mount Asama. Overnight parking is permitted, though no explicit camping facilities are listed.
Scenic Beauty Review
Boasts panoramic views of the Chikuma River, surrounding mountains, and seasonal landscapes. Features scenic viewpoints with live camera access. Natural surroundings and well-maintained pathways enhance visual appeal and atmosphere.