Station Yunotani

Discover the Heart of Fishima: Where Nature, Tradition, and Flavor Unite

Nestled along the scenic routes of Niigata Prefecture’s Fishima region, Yunotani roadside station stands as a vibrant gateway to rural Japan’s rich cultural tapestry. Located at the crossroads of forested hills and fertile rice fields, it offers travelers a serene pause with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and the famed Koshihikari rice paddies. More than just a rest stop, Yunotani is a living showcase of local heritage, where seasonal markets, artisanal crafts, and farm-fresh cuisine come together in harmony.

Visitors can savor authentic regional delicacies like Koshihikari rice bowls, sample handcrafted snacks, and explore the seasonal offerings from nearby farms. With its warm, community-driven atmosphere and proximity to natural wonders like the Omoi River and the majestic Uonuma Mountains, Yunotani is the perfect place to reconnect with nature and taste the true essence of rural Japan.

Yunotani is the only roadside station in the region where you can taste fresh, handmade milk ice cream crafted exclusively from Jersey cow’s milk sourced from local farms. Located near the dramatic Shiori Pass, it offers a rare chance to view the legendary "waterfall of clouds" — a natural phenomenon where mist cascades down the mountainside like a frozen waterfall, visible only during certain seasons. Visitors can also sample seasonal mountain vegetables, including wild ferns harvested from nearby forests, available only during limited summer months.

• Best Arrival Time: Visit the roadside station between 9:00 AM and 10:00 AM on weekdays to purchase fresh-baked milk bread from the bakery, which is released daily at 9:00 AM and often sells out by 11:00 AM.

• Hidden Gems: At the deli counter, look for the seasonal vegetable bento box made with ingredients harvested from local farms in the region, available only during summer months and sold daily until 1:00 PM.

• Weekend Special: On Saturdays and Sundays, the cafeteria serves a special fish soup made with locally caught freshwater fish from the Jōsō River, available only between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM.

• Best Time to Buy Local Rice: Visit the store between 9:00 AM and 11:00 AM on any day to ensure the best selection of fresh Fish Lake rice (Uonuma-produced Koshihikari), which is replenished daily and often sells out by midday.

• Must-Try Seasonal Item: If visiting in July or August, stop at the food truck near the entrance during the 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM window to try the limited-edition wild fern (warabi) tempura, a seasonal specialty made with foraged mountain greens.

• Parking Strategy: Arrive early on weekends and park in the far-right section of the lot, which is closest to the cafeteria and bakery, as the central and left-side parking areas fill up quickly after 10:30 AM.

• Specialty Product Tip: Purchase the "Yamasanka Pins Limited – Echigo Koma Kake Mountain" pin at the store counter before 12:00 PM, as it is only available in limited quantities and often sells out by lunchtime.

Spring (March–May): Cherry blossoms peak in late April at the roadside station, while wild ferns are available for picking through June.

Summer (June–August): Wild fern harvesting runs through June 29, and lilies bloom at Monthoka Park in early July.

Autumn (September–November): Cosmos flowers reach peak bloom in early October at the Upper Hara Cosmos Garden.

Winter (December–February): Snow-covered landscapes offer scenic views, with the town's roadside station operating through February.