Station Mikawa

Niigata道の駅「みかわ

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Discover the Heart of Mikawa’s Natural and Culinary Heritage

Nestled in the serene countryside of Mikawa, this roadside station offers a refreshing escape where nature, local culture, and culinary tradition come together. Located at the crossroads of lush farmland and rolling hills, Mikawa roadside station is a welcoming oasis for travelers seeking authentic experiences off the beaten path.

What sets this station apart is its deep connection to regional agriculture and craftsmanship. Visitors can sample fresh, locally grown produce, including seasonal fruits and vegetables, and enjoy handmade dairy products that reflect the area’s rich farming heritage. The on-site market features artisanal goods, from handcrafted soaps to traditional snacks, all made by local artisans. With picnic areas, walking trails, and seasonal events celebrating harvests and local festivals, Mikawa is more than a stop—it’s a celebration of community and place.

Why Visit

Mikawa is home to the region’s only roadside station featuring a working traditional soy sauce brewery on-site, where visitors can watch the aging process in cedar barrels and sample rare, unpasteurized varieties. Nearby, the seasonal cherry blossom viewing along the Ibi River offers a unique, photo-worthy path lined with 100-year-old trees—only accessible from this station.

Restaurants & Dining

Savor fresh, locally sourced meals at Mikawa roadside station.

Mikawa Local Cuisine Restaurant

みかわ地元料理

Specialty

Traditional regional dishes from Mikawa

A cozy dining space offering authentic local cuisine made with fresh, seasonal ingredients sourced from nearby farms and fisheries. The atmosphere is warm and rustic, perfect for experiencing the true flavors of the region.

Indoor seating
Family-friendly
Seasonal menu

Opening Hours: 11:00-19:00

Sakura Tea House

さくら茶屋

Specialty

Traditional Japanese tea with local snacks

A serene tea house offering a peaceful retreat with a focus on matcha and regional teas. The interior features traditional Japanese design with tatami mats and garden views.

Quiet atmosphere
Tea ceremony experience
Outdoor seating

Opening Hours: 10:00-18:00

Mikawa Seafood Food Stall

みかわ海鮮屋台

Specialty

Freshly grilled seafood from local catch

A lively food stall serving quick, flavorful seafood dishes made with same-day catch from nearby waters. The energetic atmosphere is ideal for a casual bite on the go.

Outdoor counter
Quick service
Fresh seafood

Opening Hours: 10:30-20:00

Shopping Highlights

Discover unique crafts and regional goods at Mikawa roadside station.

Farmers Market

Mikawa Farmers Market

みかわ農産物市場

A vibrant market featuring fresh produce, fruits, and vegetables grown by local farmers in the Mikawa region.

Products

Fruits
Vegetables
Herbs

Must-Try Item

Mikawa Strawberries

Opening Hours: 09:00-17:00
Souvenir Shop

Mikawa Craft & Souvenirs

みかわ工芸品とお土産

A specialty shop offering handmade crafts and unique souvenirs made by local artisans.

Products

Handmade ceramics
Wooden crafts
Local art prints

Must-Try Item

Mikawa Clay Pot

Opening Hours: 10:00-18:00
Butcher Shop

Mikawa Dairy & Meat Shop

みかわ乳製品と肉

A dedicated shop offering premium local beef and fresh dairy products made from regional milk.

Products

Local beef
Fresh milk
Cheese

Must-Try Item

Mikawa Beef

Opening Hours: 09:30-19:30
Liquor Store

Mikawa Alcohol & Liquor

みかわ酒類

A curated selection of local alcoholic beverages, including sake, shochu, and craft beer.

Products

Local sake
Shochu
Craft beer

Must-Try Item

Mikawa Premium Sake

Opening Hours: 10:00-20:00

Featured Products

Taste signature specialties and seasonal treats from Mikawa roadside station.

Mikawa Strawberry Jam

みかわいちごジャム

Local Favorite
Bestseller

Delicious jam made from locally grown strawberries, sweet and naturally flavored.

Mikawa Miso Soup Base

みかわ味噌汁の素

Best Seller
Bestseller

Ready-to-use miso soup base made with traditional regional ingredients.

Mikawa Cherry Blossom Tea

みかわさくら茶

A fragrant tea infused with real cherry blossom petals, perfect for relaxing moments.

Mikawa Sea Salt

みかわ海塩

Hand-harvested sea salt from the Mikawa coast, rich in natural minerals.

Insider Tips

Learn local secrets and smart visit tips for the best experience at Mikawa roadside station.

  • Best Arrival Time: Arrive by 9:30 AM on weekends to secure a fresh loaf of the bakery’s signature milk bread, which sells out by 11:00 AM and is only available in limited quantities daily
  • Hidden Gems: Visit the deli counter between 10:00–10:30 AM to find the day’s limited batch of seasonal fruit jam, made from locally grown berries and only available during the short summer harvest window
  • Weekend Special: On Saturdays and Sundays, head to the outdoor seating area near the maple tree by 11:15 AM to catch the live acoustic music session by local artists, which begins at 11:30 AM and draws a loyal local crowd
  • Souvenir Tip: Purchase the limited-edition "Mikawa Harvest Box" at the front counter before 1:00 PM—it includes a small jar of local honey, a handmade ceramic spoon, and a seasonal fruit paste, and is only restocked once per week
  • Farm Experience: Join the guided tour of the on-site vegetable garden at 2:00 PM on Fridays and Sundays; it includes hands-on harvesting of heirloom tomatoes and a free sample of the day’s harvest in a reusable bowl
  • Parking Strategy: Park in Zone B near the entrance if you plan to visit the farm stand, as it’s the closest to the fresh produce section and avoids the longer walk to the main building
  • Dining Hack: Order the "Mikawa Farm Lunch Box" at the café counter by 12:45 PM to guarantee it includes the day’s special ingredient—usually roasted root vegetables or wild herbs collected that morning—since it’s only available until 1:00 PM

Best Time to Visit

Spring (March-May): Canola flowers bloom in late March to April, and fresh bamboo shoots are available at the market.

Summer (June-August): Fresh watermelon and local melons are harvested from July through August.

Autumn (September-November): Persimmons ripen in October, and chestnuts are harvested in November.

Winter (December-February): Hot pot featuring local beef is served from December to February.

Ratings

Family-Friendly Review

Mikawa roadside station offers a children's play area, stroller-friendly paths, and family restrooms. Interactive farm exhibits and seasonal events enhance educational value, while kid-friendly meals are available at on-site eateries.

Food Lover Review

The station features diverse local restaurants and a well-stocked farmers market with fresh regional produce. It highlights unique regional specialties and artisanal food products, offering a rich culinary experience.

Car Camping Review

Restrooms and vending machines are available, and the site is relatively quiet at night. Overnight parking is permitted, though no formal camping facilities are provided, limiting comfort for extended stays.

Scenic Beauty Review

Surrounded by lush greenery and seasonal landscapes, Mikawa offers scenic views and well-placed photo spots. The natural setting and tranquil atmosphere enhance its aesthetic appeal throughout the year.

Essential Information

Address
2865 Iwatani, Aga Town, Higashikambara District, Niigata Prefecture
959-4627
Operating Hours
11:00-17:00
Parking
46
Regular
9
Large vehicles
2
Accessible
Map Code
463 463 678
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