Station Yoshinoji Otō

Discover the Stars, Taste the Mountains, and Unwind at the Summit

Perched at the peak of Tensuji Pass along National Route 168, Yoshinoji Otō stands as a striking U-shaped landmark and a gateway to the serene beauty of Nara’s southern highlands. Nestled in Ōtō, a tranquil town renowned as a haven for stargazers, this roadside station offers more than just a place to rest—it’s a cultural and celestial destination. Adjacent to the Star Country accommodation complex, it hosts a planetarium and observatory, making it a rare spot where mountain air meets cosmic wonder.

Visitors can explore local heritage at the Ōtō Folk Museum, savor modern takes on traditional dishes like smoked mackerel sushi, and sample premium local meats such as wild boar and deer, all sourced from the region. With a restaurant, shop, EV charging station, and 24-hour facilities, Yoshinoji Otō combines convenience with authentic rural charm. Whether you're seeking a peaceful pause on a mountain journey or a deep dive into nature and stars, this station delivers an unforgettable experience.

Yoshinoji Otō stands out as the only roadside station in the region where you can experience a full night sky show under the stars. Adjacent to a functioning planetarium and an observatory, it offers rare daytime and evening stargazing sessions with guided celestial tours. Just steps away, the local specialty is a modern take on a traditional five-part meal featuring heirloom-style sanma sushi made from locally sourced fish and game—only available here. This unique blend of astronomy and authentic regional cuisine creates an unforgettable stop.

• Best Arrival Time: Visit between 9:30 AM and 10:00 AM on weekends to secure the day’s fresh batch of handmade pork and deer meat sausages, which are sold out by noon and are only available at the main shop counter.

• Hidden Gems: At the deli counter near the entrance, look for the rebranded modern-style sanma sushi made from locally caught mackerel and served in small, ready-to-eat portions—only available during the summer months and sold out by 2:00 PM.

• Weekend Special: On Saturdays and Sundays, visit the adjacent Udon House Kinsho between 11:30 AM and 1:00 PM to enjoy the special seasonal udon dish featuring local mountain vegetables and a light soy-based broth, available only during the peak hiking season.

• EV Charging Tip: Use the rapid EV charger located just south of the main parking lot between 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM, as it is less likely to be occupied during midday hours when most travelers are inside the facility.

• Best View Access: Head to the northern edge of the parking lot just after 4:30 PM on clear evenings to catch the best view of the surrounding mountain ridges before sunset, especially when planning a visit to the nearby planetarium.

• Cultural Experience: If you're visiting on a Friday, Saturday, or Sunday, check the schedule at the adjacent Ootou Folk Museum for the 3:00 PM guided tour of the local history exhibit, which includes a hands-on demonstration of traditional food preparation using heirloom recipes.

• Souvenir Strategy: Purchase the frozen wild boar and deer meat products at the shop counter before 12:30 PM to ensure the best selection, as these items are restocked only once daily and are often fully sold out by early afternoon.

Spring (March–May): Peak season for fresh bamboo shoots at the market and canola flowers in full bloom (late March–April).

Summer (June–August): Ideal for stargazing at the adjacent observatory and enjoying seasonal udon at the nearby shop.

Autumn (September–November): Best time for visiting the nearby Kōno Taki waterfall and sampling preserved meats.

Winter (December–February): Quiet months with clear night skies perfect for planetarium viewing and cozy roadside visits.