Rediscover the Joy of the Outdoors at Kashigawa
Nestled in the heart of Niigata Prefecture’s scenic countryside, Kashigawa roadside station is a vibrant cultural and culinary hub where tradition meets modern adventure. Located in the charming town of Nishinomiya, this revitalized destination celebrates the region’s deep-rooted heritage through seasonal festivals, local produce, and authentic farm-to-table experiences. From the nostalgic charm of historical picnicking customs to today’s lively events, Kashigawa brings the spirit of rural life to life.
Visitors enjoy a rich tapestry of offerings: fresh, locally grown vegetables at the farmers’ market, handcrafted goods from regional artisans, and a diverse menu featuring seasonal specialties like winter ramen and hearty root vegetable dishes. Don’t miss the famed Sakura Bakery, where warm, handmade bread and seasonal treats delight every palate. Whether you're savoring a hot meal, exploring the picnic-themed concept, or joining a seasonal event, Kashigawa delivers an immersive journey into the heart of Japanese rural hospitality.
Why Visit
Visit Kashigawa roadside station to experience the only place in the region where you can enjoy freshly baked, spiced Kashigawa Curry Pan—a locally beloved treat with a bold, savory-sweet flavor unique to this location. You’ll also find the only seasonal Apple & Caramel Parfait made with locally harvested autumn apples, served at the Sakura Bakery. These signature items, paired with the station’s revitalized “Kashigawa Picnic” concept rooted in the area’s historic community gatherings, create a one-of-a-kind destination for food, culture, and local connection.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor fresh, locally crafted meals at Kashigawa roadside station, from hearty ramen to seasonal specialties and warm winter dishes.
Cafe Restaurant
カフェレストラン
Specialty
Renovated in January 2024, featuring the famous Kashigawa ramen and a diverse menu of seasonal dishes.
A revitalized dining space offering a variety of meals with a focus on local flavors and seasonal ingredients. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, perfect for a relaxing meal with family or friends.
Shopping Highlights
Discover unique local treasures and regional crafts at Kashigawa roadside station’s vibrant market and gift shop.
Local Product Market
物産販売所
A retail space offering a wide range of locally made products, including original picnic supplies, cute crafts, and souvenirs from Niigata and beyond.
Products
Must-Try Item
Original picnic supplies
Farmers Market
農産物直売所
A fresh produce market where local farmers sell their daily harvests, offering safe and delicious vegetables.
Products
Must-Try Item
Fresh vegetables
Sakura Bakery
サクラベーカリー
A newly renovated bakery specializing in handmade, freshly baked goods. Known for its original pizza and seasonal pastries.
Products
Must-Try Item
Original pizza
Featured Products
Explore signature items like seasonal produce, handcrafted goods, and beloved treats such as the spicy Kajikawa curry bread.
Kashigawa Curry Bread
加治川カレーパン
A spiced, savory bread with a rich, flavorful curry filling—highly praised for its bold taste and unique texture.
Apple and Caramel Parfait
りんごとキャラメルのパフェ
A fall-inspired dessert made with fresh seasonal apples and creamy caramel, offering a sweet and tangy flavor profile.
Hot Chocolate Affogato
アフォガードショコラ
A winter-exclusive twist on the classic affogato, combining rich chocolate flavor with aromatic espresso for a luxurious treat.
Potato Stew Buffet
芋煮ふるまい
A free, limited-time offering of traditional potato stew made with local Niigata beef, served during seasonal events.
Fresh Vegetable 100-Yen Market
100円市
A popular event where fresh local vegetables are sold at a fixed price of 100 yen per item, promoting affordability and local produce.
Facilities & Amenities
Enjoy convenient amenities including restrooms, parking, EV charging, and clear floor maps at Kashigawa roadside station.
Parking Lot
The roadside station has a parking lot with 76 spaces, including 2 dedicated EV charging spots.
Adjacent to the main entrance
Toilet
Public restrooms are available on-site for visitors.
Located throughout the facility, marked on the floor map
Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi is available for visitors at the roadside station.
Throughout the facility
Information Center
The information center provides visitor assistance, maps, and local tourism information.
Near the entrance, marked as '観光案内所' on the floor map
Picnic Area
The station features a dedicated picnic area inspired by the traditional 'Kajikawa Picnic' concept, ideal for family outings and outdoor relaxation.
Outdoor area near the riverbank and picnic spots
EV Charging Station
Two electric vehicle charging stations are available for visitors.
Parking lot, specifically designated spots
ATM
An ATM is available on-site for visitor convenience.
Near the entrance or inside the facility
Activities & Experiences
Join seasonal events, hands-on workshops, and fun outdoor activities like BBQ and harvest festivals at Kashigawa roadside station.
Seasonal BBQ
期間限定BBQ
Enjoy a hassle-free barbecue at the roadside station, with all equipment provided.
Duration
120 min
Outdoor activity; may be affected by rain or extreme heat.
Autumn Harvest Festival
秋の収穫祭
Participate in seasonal events including rice scooping, mystery-solving quests, and tasting local specialties like roasted sweet potatoes and homemade tea.
Duration
180 min
Some activities may be moved indoors or postponed due to rain.
Root Vegetable Packing Workshop
根菜詰め放題&ワークショップ
Join a hands-on workshop to pack seasonal root vegetables, learning about local farming and food preservation techniques.
Duration
60 min
Indoor activity; no weather impact.
Pizza Buffet
Pizzaビュッフェ
Enjoy a self-service pizza buffet featuring homemade and seasonal ingredients.
Duration
90 min
Indoor activity; unaffected by weather.
Rice Scooping Game
お米すくい
Take part in a traditional rice scooping game, a fun activity for all ages celebrating local harvest culture.
Duration
30 min
Indoor activity; no weather impact.
Mystery Solving Quest
ナゾ解きクエスト
Solve fun puzzles and riddles around the roadside station to uncover hidden treasures and seasonal surprises.
Duration
60 min
Indoor activity; unaffected by weather.
Local Vegetable Market
100円市
Purchase fresh seasonal vegetables at a special 100 yen market hosted during the autumn harvest festival.
Duration
45 min
Outdoor market; may be affected by rain.
Sweet Potato Stew Sharing
芋煮ふるまい
Enjoy a free, warm bowl of traditional Newakata beef and sweet potato stew during the final day of the autumn harvest festival.
Duration
30 min
Outdoor event; may be moved indoors if rainy.
Insider Tips
Visit on Thursdays for exclusive curry bread, and check the schedule for limited-time events and farm-fresh deals.
- Best Arrival Time: Visit between 9:00 and 9:30 AM on weekdays to secure the day’s first batch of Sakura Bakery’s signature milk bread, which sells out by 11:00 AM and is not restocked.
- Hidden Gems: Head to the deli counter near the cafeteria entrance to find the seasonal "Kajikawa Curry Pan," available only on Thursdays and highly praised for its spicy, rich flavor—available until sold out.
- Weekend Special: On Sundays, visit the farm stand between 10:00 and 11:00 AM to participate in the "Root Vegetable Tasting & Packing" event, where you can sample and buy seasonal root vegetables at a discounted rate.
- Best Food Experience: Order the "Pork Stew Udon" at the cafe restaurant starting November 4th—this winter-exclusive menu item features fresh Newakata beef and seasonal vegetables, served only during the colder months.
- Unique Snack Tip: Try the "Apple & Caramel Parfait" at the café during autumn months—this seasonal dessert uses locally grown apples and is only available from October through December.
- Special Event Tip: Attend the "Autumn Harvest Festival" on November 1–3 to enjoy a free lunch of locally made potato stew, served from 10:00 AM until supplies run out, and participate in the "Pumpkin Picking & Pie Workshop" held on November 22–24.
- Practical Packing Tip: Use the "Kajikawa Picnic Kit" available at the merchandise shop—this includes a reusable picnic blanket, insulated food pouch, and a foldable table, ideal for enjoying meals at the on-site picnic area near the riverbank.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March-May): Fresh bamboo shoots available at the market in early spring, with seasonal events beginning in April.
Summer (June-August): No specific seasonal offerings mentioned in the content.
Autumn (September-November): Peak season for the annual Autumn Harvest Festival (November 1–3), featuring root vegetable picking, free potato stew, and seasonal treats like apple and caramel parfaits.
Winter (December-February): Winter-only menus debut in November, including hearty dishes like pork broth udon and creamed winter vegetable doria, ideal for cold-weather visits.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Offers a play area and family activities like seasonal events and interactive games. Kid-friendly food options include unique baked goods and seasonal treats. Facilities are stroller-accessible with ample parking and clean restrooms. Educational elements include local farming and cultural heritage displays.
Food Lover Review
Features diverse dining with a renovated restaurant, bakery, and fresh market. Highlights include seasonal dishes like winter ramen, autumn vegetable cream pasta, and limited-edition items such as curry bread. Fresh local produce and handmade baked goods are consistently available.
Car Camping Review
Provides restrooms, vending machines, and a large 76-space parking lot with two EV chargers. The site is relatively quiet during weekdays and suitable for short overnight stays. However, no official overnight parking policy is listed, limiting full camping appeal.
Scenic Beauty Review
Located in a rural setting with natural riverfront views and seasonal landscapes. Offers multiple scenic viewpoints and photo spots, especially during autumn harvest events. The site’s design reflects local nature and culture, enhancing its visual appeal and peaceful atmosphere.

