Station Arai

Discover the Best of Sea and Mountain in One Journey

Nestled along National Route 18 and conveniently adjacent to the Arai Service Area and Smart IC on the Jōshin-etsu Expressway, Arai roadside station is a vibrant gateway to the natural and culinary riches of Myoko, Niigata. Surrounded by scenic views of Myoko Mountain and lush countryside, it offers travelers a seamless blend of relaxation, local culture, and authentic regional flavors.

What makes Arai special is its remarkable diversity—fresh seafood delivered straight from nearby ports, seasonal mountain vegetables, and locally crafted specialties. Visitors can enjoy everything from traditional Niigata ramen and handmade soba to gourmet pizzas, freshly baked pastries, and a wide array of local souvenirs. With a visitor center, farm stands, dining options, and even a business hotel, Arai serves as a complete stop for both leisure and travel, inviting all who pass through to savor the true spirit of the region.

Visit Arai roadside station to experience the only roadside station in the region offering fresh, daily-harvested kelp directly from the Sea of Japan coast, delivered within hours of being caught. Home to the only local shop crafting traditional kamaboko (fish cake) using fish from nearby waters, Arai also features a unique seasonal menu spotlighting wild mountain vegetables from the slopes of Myoko Mountain—ingredients found nowhere else in this area.

• Best Arrival Time: Arrive by 10:00 AM on weekdays to secure a seat at the Cafe & Bakery Patrash, which opens at 8:00 AM and often fills up by 11:00 AM, especially for the daily batch of milk bread made with local dairy.

• Hidden Gems: Visit the farmers' market stall near the entrance between 8:30–9:30 AM on weekdays to find the day’s freshest local vegetables and mushrooms from nearby farms, often sold at a discount before 10:00 AM.

• Weekend Special: On Saturdays and Sundays, head to the seafood counter by 11:00 AM to get the first pick of freshly delivered crab and scallops from the nearby port, which are typically sold out by 1:00 PM.

• Best Value Meal: Order the "Soba & Local Fish Combo" at the Soba Shop between 12:00–1:30 PM on weekdays to get the most affordable lunch deal, as this meal is only offered during those hours and includes a side of pickled vegetables.

• Parking Tip: Use the north-side parking lot near the business hotel entrance to avoid the congestion at the main entrance, especially during peak lunch hours when the food court area becomes crowded.

• Must-Try Item: Try the "Kani & Rice Bowl" at Kani House, available only from 11:30 AM to 1:30 PM daily, as it is made with whole crab legs delivered fresh from the coast each morning.

• Off-Peak Shopping: Shop for local pickles and preserved vegetables at the agricultural sales counter between 3:00–4:00 PM on weekdays to get the day’s final selection, which often includes unique seasonal items not available earlier.

Spring (March–May): Fresh bamboo shoots available at the farm market in early spring; peak season for canola flower viewing from late March to April.

Summer (June–August): Fresh seafood from nearby ports arrives daily; summer harvest of local vegetables begins in July.

Autumn (September–November): Abundant autumn harvest of chestnuts and sweet potatoes; seasonal cooking events feature local mountain ingredients.

Winter (December–February): Hot pot meals using regional ingredients highlight winter cuisine; snowscapes enhance the scenic views.