Discover the Heart of Niigata’s Rural Heritage at Asahi Roadside Station
Nestled just two minutes from the Mahoroba IC on the Japan Sea Tohoku Expressway, Asahi Roadside Station is a vibrant hub set within the lush, traditional farmlands of Minamiboso in Niigata Prefecture. More than a mere stopover, it’s a multifaceted destination where nature, local culture, and community converge. Known locally as riidogo—a dialect term meaning “a wonderful place”—this complex offers visitors a seamless blend of relaxation, flavor, and authentic regional experiences.
At Asahi, guests can savor farm-to-table cuisine at the on-site restaurant, explore a vibrant farmers’ market, and sample award-winning mountain grape wine. With a fully equipped spa, seasonal pool, and unique lodging options including hot spring–equipped cottages, there’s something for every traveler. Year-round events and cultural exchanges further enrich the journey, making Asahi a true cornerstone of Niigata’s northern tourism network.
Why Visit
Visit Asahi roadside station to experience the only regionally produced mountain grape wine in Niigata Prefecture, crafted from wild grapes harvested in the local forests and available exclusively here. Taste it alongside the station’s signature fermented soybean paste, a traditional recipe passed down through generations. These unique, locally rooted specialties cannot be found anywhere else.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor authentic regional flavors at roadside station Asahi, where farm-to-table meals highlight fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
Midori no Sato Restaurant
みどりの里食堂
Specialty
Local cuisine with seasonal ingredients
A cozy dining space offering traditional regional dishes made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, perfect for enjoying a leisurely meal surrounded by nature.
Shopping Highlights
Discover a curated selection of local crafts, seasonal goods, and unique souvenirs at roadside station Asahi.
Miyakawa Craft Store
三条金物～越乃一刀～
A specialty store featuring high-quality cutlery and metal goods, including the registered trademark 'Ko no Ichidō' from Echigo-Yanagata.
Products
Must-Try Item
Ko no Ichidō knives
Midori no Sato Farmers Market
農産物直売所
A direct sales outlet for fresh local agricultural products, offering seasonal vegetables, fruits, and other farm goods.
Products
Must-Try Item
Fresh seasonal vegetables
Midori no Sato Souvenir Shop
物産会館
A comprehensive gift shop offering a wide range of regional products, souvenirs, and local specialties.
Products
Must-Try Item
Yamabudo wine
Ko no Ichidō Shop
越乃一刀本舗
A dedicated shop within the facility specializing in the famous 'Ko no Ichidō' knives and other high-quality metalcraft items.
Products
Must-Try Item
Ko no Ichidō knives
Featured Products
Sample signature specialties like mountain grape wine and handcrafted items from the region’s renowned artisans.
Yamabudo Wine
山ぶどうワイン
A premium wine made from wild mountain grapes, known for its unique, fresh flavor and natural character.
Yamabudo Jam
山ぶどうジャム
A rich, naturally sweet jam made from wild mountain grapes, perfect for spreading on bread or using in desserts.
Michi no Eki Stamp
道の駅スタンプ
A collectible stamp from the roadside station, available at the information counter for visitors to collect and keep as a memento.
National Route Sticker
国道ステッカー
A decorative sticker featuring the national highway symbol, ideal for car windows or travel journals.
National Route Pen
国道ボールペン
A stylish ballpoint pen with a national route design, perfect for travelers and collectors.
Michi no Eki Postcard
道の駅ポストカード
A scenic postcard featuring the roadside station and surrounding natural beauty, ideal for sending or collecting.
Facilities & Amenities
Relax with access to a natural hot spring, swimming pool, and comfortable rest areas at roadside station Asahi.
General Information Center
Located inside the物産会館 (Products Hall), this center provides information about the roadside station, including maps, event schedules, and tourist guides. It also offers the sale of commemorative stamps, manhole card, national highway stickers, and pens.
Inside the Products Hall
Restroom
Restrooms are available throughout the facility complex, including near the roadside station, cafeteria, and other main buildings.
Throughout the facility complex
Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi is available for visitors across the roadside station and surrounding facilities.
Throughout the facility complex
Parking
Ample parking space is available for visitors, located near the roadside station entrance and main buildings.
Near the roadside station entrance and main buildings
Maho-rama Hot Spring
A natural hot spring facility with panoramic views of nature. The spring water is 100% sourced from the local hot spring well. The facility includes indoor and outdoor baths, and is currently temporarily closed for construction work.
Maho-rama Onsen & Kireikan
Play Area
A designated play area is available for children, located within the multi-purpose covered plaza and near the cultural exchange center.
Multi-purpose covered plaza and near the cultural exchange center
EV Charging Station
Electric vehicle charging stations are available for visitors at the roadside station parking area.
Roadside station parking area
ATM
An ATM is available for visitors near the roadside station entrance and the Products Hall.
Near the roadside station entrance and Products Hall
Nursing Room
A private nursing room is available for mothers with infants, located near the general information center and restroom areas.
Near the general information center and restroom areas
Bike Rental
Bicycle rental service is available for visitors who wish to explore the surrounding rural landscape and scenic routes.
Near the roadside station entrance
Pet Area
A designated pet-friendly area is available for visitors with pets, located near the multi-purpose covered plaza and walking trails.
Near the multi-purpose covered plaza and walking trails
Insider Tips
Plan visits around seasonal events and check opening hours in advance for a seamless experience at roadside station Asahi.
- Best Arrival Time: Visit the物産会館 (Product Hall) by 9:00 AM on weekdays to secure the limited daily batch of freshly baked milk bread from the in-house bakery, which sells out quickly and is not restocked.
- Hidden Gems: At the 越乃一刀本舗 (Yonoi Tsurugi Shop) inside the Product Hall, look for the exclusive "Yonoi Tsurugi" kitchen knives made in燕 (Yanagi) with a unique lacquered handle—only available at this location and not sold online.
- Weekend Special: On weekends, visit the 农産物直売所 (Farmers’ Market) between 10:00 AM and 11:30 AM to buy the day’s fresh harvest of mountain grapes, which are only displayed during this window before being moved to the winery for processing.
- Exclusive Purchase: Buy the 2025 Mountain Grape Wine directly at the Product Hall counter before November 30 to receive a free bottle of Mountain Grape Jam (valued at 540 yen) as part of the early reservation special.
- Stamp Collection Tip: Collect the official道の駅朝日 (Michi no Eki Asahi) stamp at the 試験交流センター (Cultural Exchange Center) front desk—this is the only location where the stamp is available, as the previous stamp book has sold out.
- Best Food Timing: Order the signature "Asahi-style rice bowl" at the みどりの里食堂 (Midokoro Restaurant) between 11:30 AM and 1:00 PM, as it is prepared fresh in small batches and is not served after 1:00 PM.
- Event Alert: Check the またぎの家 (Matagi House) bulletin board every Friday afternoon to see if a local craft demonstration is scheduled—these pop-up events feature handmade paper lanterns and traditional weaving, and are only announced on-site.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March–May): Fresh bamboo shoots available at the farm stand; peak season for canola flower viewing in late April.
Summer (June–August): Fresh mountain grapes harvested in August; ideal for enjoying homemade mountain grape wine.
Autumn (September–November): Mountain grape wine release in late November; perfect for sampling seasonal harvests.
Winter (December–February): Cozy stays in hot spring cottages; quiet visits to enjoy the serene countryside.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
The roadside station features a playground, family activities, and a pool. Child-friendly food options are available, and facilities are stroller-accessible. Educational elements include seasonal farming experiences and local cultural exhibits.
Food Lover Review
The roadside station offers diverse dining with local specialties like mountain grape wine and regional dishes. Fresh produce is available at the farmers market, and premium artisan products such as knives and jam are sold in the gift shop.
Car Camping Review
Restrooms and vending machines are available, and the site is quiet with ample parking. Overnight stays are permitted, though no explicit policy is stated. Camping comfort is moderate due to shared facilities.
Scenic Beauty Review
The site offers panoramic views of rural landscapes with seasonal beauty. Scenic viewpoints and photo opportunities abound, especially near the natural hot spring and surrounding farmland. The overall atmosphere is serene and visually appealing.