Discover the Heart of Niigata’s Rural Charm
Nishiyama Furusato Kouen is a welcoming roadside station nestled in the serene countryside of Kashiwazaki, Niigata Prefecture, where lush landscapes meet local tradition. Located just a 20-minute walk from Kashiwazaki Station on the JR line, it serves as a vibrant gateway to the region’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.
More than a rest stop, this roadside station celebrates local life through seasonal markets, artisanal crafts, and farm-fresh produce. Visitors can savor regional specialties like Niigata rice and fresh mountain vegetables, or explore the nearby hiking trails and scenic viewpoints. With its warm atmosphere and deep connection to the community, Nishiyama Furusato Kouen offers an authentic taste of rural Japan.
Why Visit
Nishiyama Furusato Koen stands out as the only roadside station in the region offering handmade Koshihikari rice crackers crafted from locally grown, stone-milled rice. Visitors can also experience the exclusive Jersey cow milk ice cream, made daily on-site using cream from nearby pastures. The station’s rooftop garden, featuring rare heirloom vegetables and traditional farming demonstrations, provides a unique glimpse into Niigata’s agricultural heritage—experience it nowhere else.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor fresh, locally sourced meals at Nishiyama Furusato Kouen roadside station.
Nishiyama Farm Kitchen
西山農場キッチン
Specialty
Local farm-to-table cuisine with seasonal ingredients
A cozy restaurant offering fresh, locally sourced dishes made with ingredients from nearby farms. The atmosphere is warm and rustic, perfect for enjoying regional flavors in a relaxed setting.
Soba & Tea House
そばと茶屋
Specialty
Handmade soba noodles with regional tea
A traditional Japanese tea house specializing in handmade soba noodles served with locally grown green tea. The ambiance is serene and minimalist, ideal for quiet dining.
Local Delights Food Stall
地元グルメ屋台
Specialty
Quick bites from regional specialties
A lively food stall offering fast, authentic local snacks and street food. The atmosphere is casual and energetic, perfect for a quick meal on the go.
Shopping Highlights
Discover unique local crafts and seasonal goods at Nishiyama Furusato Kouen roadside station.
Farmers' Market
農産物直売所
A marketplace selling fresh produce, fruits, and vegetables directly from local farmers.
Products
Must-Try Item
Organic Strawberries
Bakery Corner
ベーカリー角
A small bakery offering freshly baked bread, pastries, and seasonal treats.
Products
Must-Try Item
Honey Walnut Bread
Craft & Souvenir Shop
工芸品とお土産屋
A shop specializing in handmade crafts and regional souvenirs.
Products
Must-Try Item
Hand-Painted Ceramic Bowl
Local Alcohol Store
地酒販売所
A shop dedicated to selling regional alcoholic beverages, including sake and local craft beer.
Products
Must-Try Item
Kashiwazaki Mountain Sake
Featured Products
Taste the region’s finest specialties, from handcrafted sweets to farm-fresh produce.
Organic Strawberries
有機いちご
Fresh, sweet strawberries grown using organic farming methods in the region.
Honey Walnut Bread
ハチミツナッツパン
A soft, golden bread infused with local honey and crunchy walnuts.
Hand-Painted Ceramic Bowl
手描き陶器ボウル
A unique, hand-painted ceramic bowl crafted by local artisans.
Kashiwazaki Mountain Sake
柏崎山酒
Premium local sake brewed using mountain spring water and regional rice.
Local Pickled Vegetables
地元漬物
Authentic pickled vegetables made with traditional recipes and local ingredients.
Facilities & Amenities
Relax and recharge with comfortable restrooms, parking, and scenic viewing areas.
Parking Area
Ample parking space available for visitors.
Near the main entrance of the roadside station
Restroom
Clean and well-maintained restrooms available for public use.
Inside the main building near the information center
Free Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi access available throughout the premises.
Throughout the roadside station, including indoor and outdoor areas
Information Center
Staffed information desk providing local tourism information, maps, and assistance.
Main entrance area
Children's Play Area
Outdoor play area with equipment for children to enjoy.
Near the main parking lot and entrance
Hot Spring Bath
Traditional Japanese hot spring bath available for visitors to relax.
Adjacent to the main building, accessible via a separate entrance
Bicycle Rental
Bicycles available for rent to explore the surrounding area.
Near the entrance near the parking area
Nursing Room
Private room equipped for breastfeeding and baby care.
Inside the main building, near the restroom area
EV Charging Station
Electric vehicle charging station available for visitors.
Near the main parking area
ATM
Cash machine available for withdrawing money.
Near the entrance of the roadside station
Pet Area
Designated space for pets to rest and relieve themselves.
Outside the main building, near the entrance
Insider Tips
Visit early to enjoy quiet mornings and avoid crowds during peak seasons.
- Best Arrival Time: Arrive by 9:30 AM on weekends to secure a seat at the bakery counter, where fresh milk bread is baked daily and sold out by 11:00 AM
- Hidden Gems: Visit the deli counter between 10:00 AM and 11:00 AM to find the limited-edition seasonal pickled vegetables made from local Nishiyama produce
- Weekend Special: On Saturdays and Sundays, the local craft beer stand near the parking area offers a free sample of the featured seasonal brew between 11:30 AM and 12:30 PM
- Best Photo Spot: Head to the western side of the roadside station near the large red maple tree between 4:00 PM and 5:30 PM on weekdays to capture the best natural lighting for photos
- Unique Souvenir: Purchase the “Nishiyama Forest Honey” at the gift shop before 1:00 PM, as it is restocked only once daily and often sells out by mid-afternoon
- Local Event Tip: Check the information board near the entrance every Friday afternoon for announcements about surprise pop-up vendors selling handmade crafts from nearby villages
- Parking Strategy: Use the east-side parking lot if you plan to visit the on-site bathhouse, as it is directly accessible from the bathhouse entrance and avoids the main foot traffic zone
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March–May): Canola flowers bloom in late April, and fresh bamboo shoots are available at the market in early spring.
Summer (June–August): Fresh strawberries are harvested in June, and the roadside station hosts summer festivals in July.
Autumn (September–November): Autumn foliage peaks in mid-November, and chestnuts are harvested in October.
Winter (December–February): The roadside station offers winter hot spring experiences and seasonal food festivals in December.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Offers play areas and children's activities, stroller-friendly paths, and family restrooms. Includes interactive nature zones and local craft workshops. Kid-friendly food options available.
Food Lover Review
Features diverse local restaurants and high-quality regional specialties. Farmers market offers fresh seasonal produce. Artisan food stalls and gourmet gift items enhance the culinary experience.
Car Camping Review
Provides clean restrooms, vending machines, and basic overnight facilities. Quiet surroundings during evening hours. Overnight parking is permitted but not explicitly advertised.
Scenic Beauty Review
Surrounded by natural forest and seasonal landscapes with scenic viewpoints. Offers excellent photo opportunities, especially during cherry blossom and autumn foliage seasons. Pleasant aesthetic atmosphere throughout.