Station Segae no Sato Senda

Taste the Spirit of Rural Japan at Segae no Sato Senda

Nestled along National Route 252 in the heart of Nakasenda, Tenjōma City, Segae no Sato Senda is more than a roadside station—it’s a celebration of local heritage, sustainable farming, and community pride. Set against the serene backdrop of rice fields and rolling hills, this destination offers travelers a genuine glimpse into the life of traditional Japanese agriculture.

What sets Segae no Sato Senda apart is its commitment to authenticity. The station proudly features R7 Senda Rice, a unique variety grown exclusively by local farmers using time-honored methods. Unlike mass-produced rice, this grain carries the deep, earthy essence of the region’s fertile soil. Visitors can purchase fresh, self-grown rice at the on-site market and enjoy seasonal dishes made with local ingredients. With a history rooted in the dedication of local farmers, every visit to Segae no Sato Senda is a tribute to tradition, resilience, and the enduring bond between people and the land.

Segae no Sato Senda stands out as the only roadside station in the region offering direct access to R7産せんだ米, a rare heirloom rice grown exclusively in the flatlands of Nakasenda. This rice, cultivated with generations of farmer dedication, delivers a deep, earthy flavor unmatched by mass-produced varieties. Visitors can also sample the station’s signature rice crackers made from the same heirloom grain, available only here. Unlike other roadside stations, Segae no Sato Senda provides a genuine connection to sustainable, self-sustained farming practices, where every product is grown and processed on-site.

• Best Arrival Time: Visit between 9:30 AM and 10:30 AM on weekdays to purchase the day’s fresh batch of R7産せんだ米 (R7-produced Senda Rice), which is restocked daily at the agricultural sales counter and often sells out by noon.

• Hidden Gems: At the aimart convenience store, look for the limited-edition Senda Rice gift packs available only during the autumn harvest season (mid-September to mid-October).

• Weekend Special: On weekends, visit the agricultural sales counter by 11:00 AM to secure the last available boxes of the seasonal Senda Rice, as these are sold on a first-come, first-served basis and frequently deplete by early afternoon.

• Exclusive Product Access: Purchase the official Segae no Sato Senda commemorative stamp set at the public telephone booth—only available during the North Kanto Roadside Station Stamp Rally (2024–2026), which runs through December 31, 2026.

• Best Time to Visit the Deli Counter: Arrive by 10:00 AM to access the limited supply of handmade Senda Rice crackers, which are baked daily and only available at the deli counter until 1:00 PM.

• Avoid Closed Hours: Do not attempt to visit the food service counter (Nagase Restaurant) on Wednesdays, as it is closed every week except on public holidays, as clearly indicated on the homepage.

• Special Event Tip: During the R7産せんだ米 sales launch (announced September 27, 2025), arrive before 10:00 AM on the first day of sales to secure the initial batch of the new harvest, as the store limits daily distribution to 50 bags.

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

Summer (June-August): The Shibu Kawa Fish Catching Festival runs in early April, and summer vegetables are harvested.

Autumn (September-November): R7産せんだ米 is harvested and sold from September, with autumn foliage enhancing the scenery.

Winter (December-February): The roadside station remains open year-round, offering seasonal snacks and local crafts.