Discover the Heart of Ise: A Journey Through Tradition and Taste
Ise Honkaido Mitsue is a vibrant roadside station nestled in the serene countryside of Utazu District, Nara Prefecture, where ancient pathways meet modern hospitality. Located along the historic Ise Honkaido route, this station offers travelers a rare glimpse into rural Japanese life, blending natural beauty with local heritage. More than a pit stop, it’s a cultural gateway where visitors can savor regional flavors, explore artisanal crafts, and connect with the spirit of the land.
What sets Ise Honkaido Mitsue apart is its dedication to authentic local products. The on-site shop features a curated selection of regional specialties, including handmade noodles, seasonal vegetables, and traditional sweets. Visitors can also enjoy a relaxing break in the peaceful garden area, perfect for unwinding after a day of travel. Whether you’re seeking a taste of authentic Nara or a quiet moment in nature, this roadside station delivers an unforgettable experience.
Why Visit
Ise Honkaido Mitsue stands out as the only roadside station in the region offering handmade milk ice cream crafted from fresh Jersey cow milk sourced exclusively from local family farms. Visitors can also experience the rare chance to tour a traditional washi paper workshop on-site, where artisans still use century-old techniques to produce the famed Otsu washi. This unique blend of dairy craftsmanship and heritage paper-making makes it a one-of-a-kind destination.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor authentic local flavors at Ise Honkaido Mitsue roadside station.
Ise Honkaido Mitsue Restaurant
伊勢本街道 御杖
Specialty
Traditional Kansai cuisine with local ingredients
A cozy dining experience featuring authentic Kansai-style meals made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The atmosphere is warm and rustic, perfect for enjoying a leisurely meal after exploring the surrounding countryside.
Soba & Tea House
そばと茶屋
Specialty
Handmade soba noodles with matcha and green tea
A serene tea house offering handcrafted soba noodles and a variety of traditional Japanese green teas. The space is minimalist and tranquil, ideal for quiet reflection or a light afternoon snack.
Local Delights Food Stall
地元グルメ屋台
Specialty
Quick street-style snacks using regional ingredients
A vibrant food stall offering fast, flavorful bites made with seasonal and local produce. Perfect for a quick bite while exploring the roadside station.
Shopping Highlights
Discover unique crafts and regional treasures at Ise Honkaido Mitsue roadside station.
Farmers Market
農産物直売所
A seasonal market featuring fresh produce, fruits, and vegetables grown in the local region.
Products
Must-Try Item
Freshly harvested strawberries
Craft & Local Goods Store
工芸品と地元物産
A curated selection of handmade crafts, pottery, and artisanal goods from local artisans.
Products
Must-Try Item
Hand-thrown pottery bowl
Local Meat & Poultry Shop
地元肉と鶏肉
Specializing in locally raised beef, pork, and free-range chicken.
Products
Must-Try Item
Grass-fed beef steak
Dairy & Cheese Corner
乳製品とチーズ
Fresh dairy products including milk, yogurt, and handmade cheeses.
Products
Must-Try Item
Farm-made mozzarella
Souvenir & Gift Shop
お土産とギフト
A variety of regional souvenirs and gift items perfect for visitors.
Products
Must-Try Item
Ise Honkaido Mitsue branded tea set
Alcohol & Beverage Store
酒とドリンク
A selection of local sake, plum wine, and other regional alcoholic beverages.
Products
Must-Try Item
Handcrafted plum wine
Featured Products
Taste signature specialties crafted with pride from the heart of Nara.
Ise Honkaido Mitsue Premium Soba Flour
伊勢本街道御杖プレミアムそば粉
High-quality buckwheat flour milled from locally grown grains, ideal for making authentic soba noodles at home.
Local Strawberry Jam
地元いちごジャム
Delicious jam made from fresh, sun-ripened strawberries harvested in the region.
Handmade Ceramic Bowl
手作り陶器ボウル
A unique, hand-thrown ceramic bowl crafted by local artisans using traditional techniques.
Farm-Fresh Egg Box
地元新鮮卵
Fresh, free-range eggs from local farms, packed in a recyclable cardboard box.
Ise Honkaido Mitsue Tea Set
伊勢本街道御杖茶セット
A beautifully designed tea set featuring local matcha and traditional tea utensils.
Facilities & Amenities
Enjoy comfortable rest stops and convenient amenities at Ise Honkaido Mitsue roadside station.
Parking Area
Ample parking space available for visitors and travelers.
Near the main entrance of the roadside station
Restroom
Clean and well-maintained public restrooms for visitors.
Inside the main building, near the information center
Free Wi-Fi
Complimentary Wi-Fi access available throughout the roadside station.
Covered across the entire facility
Information Center
Staffed desk providing local information, maps, and assistance to visitors.
Main entrance area
Children's Play Area
Safe and fun play space for children with various toys and equipment.
Adjacent to the outdoor seating area
Hot Spring Bath
Traditional Japanese hot spring bath with natural mineral water, available for relaxation.
Located in the wellness building, separate from the main station
Bicycle Rental
Bicycles available for rent to explore the surrounding area and scenic routes.
Near the parking area
Nursing Room
Private and quiet room equipped for breastfeeding and baby care.
Inside the restroom building, near the family restroom
EV Charging Station
Electric vehicle charging points available for visitors using electric cars.
Near the main parking lot
ATM
Cash withdrawal machine available for convenience.
Near the information center
Pet-Friendly Area
Designated space where pets are allowed, with water and waste disposal facilities.
Outside the main building, near the garden area
Insider Tips
Gain local insights and practical advice for a richer visit to Ise Honkaido Mitsue roadside station.
- Best Arrival Time: Visit by 9:30 AM on weekends to secure a spot at the bakery counter for the limited-edition Ise Honkaido Mitsue Milk Bread, which is baked fresh daily and sells out by 11:00 AM
- Hidden Gems: Check the small corner near the restrooms for the seasonal "Kakuni Miso" pork stew, only available during winter months (December–February) and served daily from 11:30 AM
- Weekend Special: On Saturdays and Sundays, the local farmers’ market opens at 10:00 AM and features a rotating selection of hand-picked produce from nearby farms, including heirloom tomatoes and wild mountain greens
- Dining Tip: Order the "Mitsue Special Set" at the in-house café between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM to receive a free cup of locally roasted Ise Honkaido coffee with your meal
- Souvenir Shortcut: Purchase the "Farm-to-Table Gift Box" at the front counter before 12:30 PM—this box includes five signature products (milk bread, miso pickles, dried persimmons, wild herb tea, and a honey sample) and is only restocked once per week
- Parking Strategy: Use the far-right parking area marked "Farmers’ Market Access" when visiting on weekends—this lot is reserved for shoppers attending the farmers’ market and avoids the congestion near the main entrance
- Best Photo Spot: Stand at the wooden bench just outside the south-facing glass wall between 1:00 PM and 3:00 PM on weekdays to capture the full view of the surrounding rice paddies and the Ise Honkaido mountain range in golden sunlight
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March–May): Canola flowers bloom in late March to April, and fresh bamboo shoots are available at the roadside station market.
Summer (June–August): Fresh melons and seasonal vegetables are harvested and sold from July through August.
Autumn (September–November): Local chestnuts and sweet potatoes are harvested and available at roadside station stalls.
Winter (December–February): Hearty regional dishes and warm beverages are featured, with snowscapes enhancing the scenic views.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Offers a children's play area, stroller-friendly paths, and family restrooms. Features interactive farming experiences and kid-friendly food options. Safe and accessible with ample parking.
Food Lover Review
Features a variety of local restaurants and fresh produce from the on-site farmers market. Offers unique regional specialties and high-quality artisanal food products for an authentic culinary experience.
Car Camping Review
Provides clean restrooms and vending machines. Parking is available, but overnight stays are not officially permitted. Environment is moderately quiet, suitable for short stops but not ideal for extended camping.
Scenic Beauty Review
Surrounded by lush natural landscapes with scenic viewpoints and seasonal beauty. Offers excellent photo opportunities and a peaceful, aesthetically pleasing atmosphere year-round.