Station R290 Tochios

Savor the Soul of Niigata at R290 Tochios

Nestled along Route 290 in the heart of Tochiori, R290 Tochios stands as a vibrant roadside station where local tradition meets modern charm. More than a rest stop, it’s a gateway to the rich culinary heritage of Niigata Prefecture, centered around the region’s famed aburaage—crispy, golden-fried tofu crafted with centuries-old precision. Visitors can enjoy freshly made aburaage served in everything from hearty rice bowls to savory yakisoba, or sample innovative treats like aburaage ice cream and seasonal mountain vegetables.

The station’s bustling marketplace showcases handcrafted goods, from local soy sauce and regional sake to pickled wild ferns and sweet soy-glazed meat dumplings. With a dedicated farmers’ market offering fresh, traceable produce and a cozy restaurant serving up everything from ramen to seasonal specials, R290 Tochios delivers a full sensory journey. Whether you're traveling through the countryside or exploring Tochiori’s scenic landscapes, this roadside station offers a taste of authentic Niigata life.

Visit R290 Tochios for the region’s only roadside station offering freshly fried aburaage from the historic Sato Tofu Shop, where you can taste their signature negi-uchi aburaage—crisp, golden oil-fried tofu with scallion—just as it’s made. The station also hosts the exclusive Tochios Aburaage Roll Sushi, a locally crafted specialty only available here. With fresh, farm-to-table vegetables from the on-site Smile Tochios farm stand and seasonal wild ferns harvested from nearby hills, this is a rare destination where every bite tells the story of Tochios’ land and tradition.

• Best Arrival Time: Visit the oil-fried tofu stand between 10:00 AM and 10:30 AM on weekdays to get the freshest batch of fried tofu, as it is prepared and sold starting at 10:30 AM and often sells out by 11:30 AM.

• Hidden Gems: Ask for the "negi-attached aburage" at the oil-fried tofu counter—this specific item, featuring green onion on top, is a locally preferred choice and often overlooked by visitors.

• Weekend Special: On weekends, visit the vegetable stand "Smile Tochio" between 9:00 AM and 10:30 AM to see the day’s fresh harvest, including wild mountain vegetables and locally grown cucumbers, which are only available on Wednesdays, Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays.

• Best Value Purchase: Buy the "Tochio Yaki" (a local grilled meat skewer) from the food counter at 10:00 AM when the first batch of the day is served—this is when the price is at its lowest and the selection is most complete before the lunch rush.

• Discount Strategy: Use the a.u.PAY 5% discount coupon on purchases over 800 yen—this is only available from September 1 to September 30, so plan your visit during this window to save on your food and souvenir purchases.

• Menu Tip: Order the "aburage stew set" at the restaurant between 11:00 AM and 12:30 PM to avoid the lunchtime queue and ensure you get the daily fresh batch of aburage, which is prepared in the morning and not replenished after midday.

• Souvenir Smart Buy: Purchase the "Tochio Aburage Roll Sushi" at the product sales counter before 1:00 PM—this item is only available during the first half of the day and often sells out by early afternoon.

Spring (March–May): Fresh bamboo shoots available at the market from April, with wild ferns harvested in early May.

Summer (June–August): Local soft-serve ice cream and seasonal vegetables on sale, ideal for cooling off.

Autumn (September–November): Limited-time 5% discount on purchases from September 1–30, featuring autumn harvest goods.

Winter (December–February): No fresh produce sales; roadside station closed December 31–January 2.