Station Kazo Wataraseriver

Discover the Heart of Nature and Culture at Kazo Wataraseriver

Nestled along the scenic Kita Kawabe Super Levee in northern Saitama Prefecture, Kazo Wataraseriver stands as a vibrant roadside station where urban travelers meet the serene beauty of Japan’s largest flood control reservoir, the Watarase Reservoir. This expansive green oasis, spanning over 3,300 hectares, offers breathtaking views of reed-filled wetlands, diverse wildlife, and tranquil waterways, making it a true oasis for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

More than just a rest stop, Kazo Wataraseriver is a cultural gateway. Visitors can rent canoes and bicycles to explore the reservoir, stroll through the rare Oenothera self-seeding area—home to a critically endangered plant found in only one other location in the Kanto region—or enjoy hands-on farm experiences at the Rice Park. The station features a bustling local market, a traditional restaurant serving handmade soba and udon, and a multifunctional facility that supports regional agriculture and community life. At the intersection of three prefectures, this roadside station celebrates the harmony between people, nature, and history.

Visit Kazo Wataraseriver roadside station to experience the rare sight of wild onibasu lilies thriving in a preserved waterway—a nationally designated endangered plant found in only two locations in the Kanto region, one of which is here. More than just a stop, it’s a gateway to the vast 3,300-hectare Watarase Floodwater Area, where you can rent canoes and kayak across the open water while overlooking the endless reed beds and seasonal birdlife. This is the only roadside station in the region offering direct access to both the floodplain’s natural wonders and the historic site of the Three Prefectures’ Border, where the waters of Saitama, Gunma, and Tochigi meet.

• Best Arrival Time: Visit between 9:00 AM and 10:00 AM on weekends to secure the last fresh batch of hand-made soba and udon from Sakura Restaurant, which are known to sell out by 11:30 AM due to high demand.

• Hidden Gems: At the Kazo Market stand, look for the "Kita Kawabe Kosihikari" rice and "Kita Kawabe Tomato "Kigobou" (wooden sweet tomato) sold only during seasonal harvests, typically from July to September.

• Weekend Special: On Saturdays and Sundays, visit the Sai-gun To shop between 9:00 AM and 10:00 AM to find limited-edition regional products from Tochigi, Gunma, and Saitama prefectures, including seasonal preserves and handcrafted noodles.

• Actionable Experience: Rent a canoe from the Sports Learning Center by calling ahead at 0280-62-5555, as canoe rentals are only available with prior reservation and must be booked at least one day in advance.

• Best Photo Spot: Head to the Sai-gun To observation deck at 3:00 PM on a clear weekday to capture the full view of the Tone River and Watarase Floodplain, especially during late summer when the reed beds are at peak height.

• Off-Peak Shopping: Visit the Kazo Market on a weekday between 11:00 AM and 12:00 PM to find discounted surplus produce and fresh daily delivery items not available during peak hours.

• Unique Cultural Stop: Walk the short 500-meter path from the roadside station to the Three Prefecture Border Marker and take a photo with the concrete post marking the boundary between Tochigi, Gunma, and Saitama prefectures, located near the former course of the Watarase River.

Spring (March–May): Late March to April features blooming canola flowers at the Rice Park, ideal for photo walks. Fresh bamboo shoots appear at the market in early spring.

Summer (June–August): Peak season for water sports on the Tone River; kayak and canoe rentals available. The Oenibasu flower bed blooms from July to August.

Autumn (September–November): Rice harvest season at the Rice Park; visitors can experience traditional rice threshing.

Winter (December–February): Limited activities; the market and restaurants operate with reduced hours.