Station Umiterasu Nadachi

Savor the Sea, Reconnect with Nature

Umiterasu Nadachi is a premier roadside station nestled along the rugged coastline of Niigata Prefecture, where the vast expanse of the Japan Sea meets the quiet charm of rural life. Located in the scenic Nadachi district of Joetsu City, this vibrant destination offers more than a pit stop—it’s a gateway to immersive experiences rooted in local culture and natural beauty.

Surrounded by panoramic ocean views, visitors can enjoy fresh seafood caught daily, explore themed events like the seasonal "Phantom Fish Festival," or unwind in the serene "Yurara" hot spring bath with sweeping vistas of the sea. With its blend of dining, relaxation, recreation, and authentic regional products—such as fermented sweet shrimp and squid in soy lees—Umiterasu Nadachi captures the essence of coastal Japan. Whether seeking adventure, tranquility, or culinary delight, this roadside station delivers a complete, unforgettable journey.

Umiterasu Nadachi stands out as the only roadside station in the region offering a curated selection of artisanal seafood preserved in traditional koji and miso brines, including the acclaimed sweet shrimp in koji and squid in miso—both certified "Made in Joetsu" and recognized in Newa’s prestigious "Best Foods of Niigata" selection. With direct access to the Japan Sea, visitors can witness the rare spectacle of the ocean turning crimson at sunset, a view unmatched anywhere else in the area.

• Best Arrival Time: Arrive by 9:30 AM on weekdays to secure the limited daily batch of fresh-baked milk bread from the on-site bakery, which sells out quickly and is not restocked during the day.

• Hidden Gems: Visit the Sweets Techichi counter on the first floor of the shop hall between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM on weekdays to find the seasonal "幻魚フェア" (Phantom Fish Fair) special sweets, including limited-edition ice cream featuring the official festival characters Poo-chan and Ai-chan.

• Weekend Special: On weekends, visit the deli counter between 12:00 PM and 1:30 PM to try the "幻魚フェア" limited-time menu, which features grilled fish and seafood dishes made from the day’s fresh catch, available only during the November 1–30 event.

• Souvenir Strategy: Purchase the three-pack set of fermented shrimp, fermented squid, and fermented silver salmon at the shop hall before 4:00 PM on weekdays to ensure availability, as this set sells out by late afternoon due to high demand for gift sets.

• Best View Timing: Walk to the rooftop terrace just after 5:00 PM on clear days to witness the Japan Sea turn a deep crimson during sunset, especially during the "幻魚フェア" season when the lighting enhances the dramatic sky view.

• On-Site Food Tip: Order the "Umiterasu Nadachi Online Shopping" gift set (shrimp, squid, and silver salmon fermented products) online and pick it up at the shop hall counter between 3:00 PM and 5:00 PM to avoid waiting in line during peak hours.

• Local Event Insight: Attend the "Shinshu Mushi Kura Matsuri" event on the first Saturday of each month at the roadside station to experience live regional cooking demonstrations and sample exclusive seasonal food items only available during the festival.

Spring (March–May): Fresh sea urchin available in April, with seasonal seafood menus featuring early catches from the Japan Sea.

Summer (June–August): Outdoor seawater pool open, offering ocean views and summer seafood specials.

Autumn (September–November): "Phantom Fish Fair" runs from November 1–30, showcasing rare local fish.

Winter (December–February): Special holiday cuisine and warm dining experiences highlight seasonal ingredients.