Discover the Heart of Niigata’s Rural Delights
Agano roadside station, nestled in the lush countryside of Ageo City in Niigata Prefecture, is a vibrant gateway to local flavors, nature, and family-friendly adventure. Surrounded by rolling farmland and serene landscapes, it serves as a cultural and culinary hub where visitors can immerse themselves in the region’s agricultural heritage.
Renowned for its fresh seasonal produce—like tender green beans and sweet tomatoes—Agano also showcases the area’s famed dairy tradition through rich, handcrafted desserts made with local milk. Families will delight in the spacious, soft grassy playground, fully equipped play structures, and a climate-controlled indoor playroom, making it an ideal stop for children of all ages. Whether sampling regional specialties or enjoying a peaceful moment in nature, Agano offers a genuine taste of rural Niigata.
Why Visit
Visit Agano roadside station for its unique artisanal dairy offerings, including the only milk ice cream in the region made from Jersey cow milk sourced directly from local farms. Enjoy seasonal edamame and eggplants at the on-site market, paired with house-made bento featuring fresh, locally grown ingredients. The station also features a dedicated children’s play area with soft grass and indoor play space, making it a rare family-friendly destination with both farm-fresh food and immersive kid-friendly experiences.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor fresh local produce and crafted delicacies at Agano roadside station.
Agano Market
あがの市場
Specialty
Fresh seasonal vegetables and local produce
A vibrant market offering a variety of fresh, locally sourced agricultural products, including seasonal edamame and eggplants. The atmosphere is lively and community-oriented, emphasizing the natural flavors of the ingredients.
Agano Dairy Café
あがの酪農カフェ
Specialty
Dairy-based desserts using milk from Agano City
A cozy café specializing in sweet treats made with fresh milk from local dairy farms. The ambiance is warm and inviting, perfect for relaxing with a homemade dessert or coffee.
Agano Cooking Room
あがのおしい調理室
Specialty
Ready-to-eat meals made with local ingredients
A food stall offering convenient, freshly prepared meals using regional ingredients. The space is casual and efficient, ideal for quick bites while exploring the roadside station.
Pal*System
pal*system
Specialty
Local specialty food products
A specialty food outlet featuring curated regional products, emphasizing quality and authenticity. The space offers a modern, clean environment with a focus on local culinary heritage.
Shopping Highlights
Discover local crafts and seasonal goods at Agano roadside station.
Agano Market
あがの市場
A fresh produce market offering seasonal vegetables, fruits, and locally grown agricultural products.
Products
Must-Try Item
Fresh edamame
Agano Dairy Café
あがの酪農カフェ
A shop specializing in dairy-based products made with milk from Agano City's local farms.
Products
Must-Try Item
Local milk-based desserts
Agano Cooking Room
あがのおしい調理室
A general food shop offering ready-to-eat meals and prepared dishes made with regional ingredients.
Products
Must-Try Item
Seasonal prepared dishes
Pal*System
pal*system
A souvenir shop featuring local crafts, food products, and regional memorabilia.
Products
Must-Try Item
Regional gift sets
Featured Products
Enjoy signature specialties like dairy sweets and seasonal vegetables from Agano.
Fresh Edamame
旬のえだまめ
Fresh, seasonal edamame harvested locally, known for its tender texture and natural sweetness.
Fresh Eggplants
旬のなす
Locally grown eggplants with a rich flavor and firm texture, perfect for cooking.
Agano Milk-Based Desserts
阿賀野市のミルクを使ったスイーツ
Delicious desserts made with fresh milk from Agano City's local dairy farms, known for their creamy texture and natural taste.
Local Seasonal Prepared Meals
素材の味を生かした総菜
Ready-to-eat meals made with seasonal ingredients, preserving the natural flavor of local produce.
Regional Gift Sets
地元の特産品ギフトセット
Curated gift sets featuring a selection of local products, ideal for visitors and souvenirs.
Facilities & Amenities
Relax with spacious playgrounds and indoor playrooms at Agano roadside station.
Parking
140 standard cars and 17 large vehicles available.
Near the entrance of the roadside station
Restroom
Available for visitors, located within the roadside station premises.
Inside the roadside station
Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi access available for visitors.
Throughout the roadside station
Information Center
Provides information about the area, local attractions, and services.
Inside the roadside station
Play Area
A soft grassy playground with ample play equipment, suitable for small children. Includes an indoor playroom for family enjoyment.
Near the main entrance and inside the facility
Nursing Room
Private space for mothers to breastfeed or care for infants.
Inside the roadside station
EV Charging Station
Electric vehicle charging facilities available for visitors.
Near the parking area
ATM
Cash machine available for visitor convenience.
Near the entrance of the roadside station
Insider Tips
Visit on weekends for extended hours and local events at Agano roadside station.
- Best Arrival Time: Visit between 9:30 AM and 10:00 AM on weekdays to secure the day’s first batch of fresh-baked milk bread from the bakery at the market, which sells out quickly and is not restocked after 11:00 AM
- Hidden Gems: At the deli counter, look for the seasonal edamame and eggplant side dishes made from local farm produce—these are only available during their peak harvest months and are sold in limited quantities
- Weekend Special: On Saturdays and Sundays, visit the “あがの酪農カフェ” (Agano Dairy Café) between 9:00 AM and 10:30 AM to try the fresh milk-based desserts, including the signature milk pudding that is only made during weekend hours
- Best Food Purchase: Buy the “Aga no Milk Yogurt” from the market counter before 12:00 PM, as it is only prepared in the morning and is not restocked later in the day
- Kids’ Play Tip: Head to the soft grassy playground near the main entrance before 3:00 PM on weekends to avoid the peak crowd, as the play area gets crowded after 4:00 PM when school groups arrive
- Exclusive Product: Purchase the “Aga no Milk Bread Set” at the pal*system counter before 1:00 PM on Fridays and Saturdays—this special combo of bread and local jam is only available on those days and sells out by early afternoon
- Timing for Market Access: Enter the market through the main gate by 9:15 AM on weekdays to access the first batch of fresh local produce, as vendors begin unloading their goods right at opening and items are not restocked after 10:00 AM
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March–May): Peak season for fresh bamboo shoots and edamame at the market, with vibrant greenery and mild weather ideal for outdoor visits.
Summer (June–August): Enjoy seasonal fruits and cooling dairy treats at the dairy café, perfect for hot days.
Autumn (September–November): Harvest season for local vegetables and autumnal flavors at the market and café.
Winter (December–February): Cozy indoor spaces and warm dairy desserts provide comfort during cold months.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Agano roadside station features a soft grassy play area, well-equipped playgrounds, and an indoor playroom. It offers stroller-friendly paths and safe, accessible facilities. Children can enjoy interactive experiences and local snacks, making it highly suitable for families.
Food Lover Review
Agano roadside station provides diverse dining options, including fresh seasonal vegetables, local dairy-based desserts, and handmade side dishes. The market offers high-quality produce, and the café highlights regional flavors, delivering an authentic and enjoyable culinary experience.
Car Camping Review
The station has ample parking for cars and large vehicles, with accessible restrooms and vending machines. While it allows overnight stays, it lacks designated camping zones or explicit overnight policies, limiting its suitability for extended stays.
Scenic Beauty Review
Agano roadside station is set in a scenic rural landscape with pleasant natural surroundings. It offers attractive viewpoints and photo opportunities, especially during seasonal changes. The overall atmosphere is peaceful and visually appealing.