Step Into the Legacy of Japan’s Legendary Siblings
Asai Three Sisters Village is a vibrant roadside station nestled along National Route 365 in northeastern Shiga Prefecture, where history, nature, and local craftsmanship converge. Located near the historic ruins of Odani Castle—the famed stronghold of the Sasaki family and birthplace of the legendary Three Sisters of Azai—this station offers travelers a deep connection to one of Japan’s most dramatic eras. The surrounding landscape, framed by the serene beauty of Lake Biwa and the rolling hills of the Hokubu region, provides a scenic backdrop for a journey through time.
More than a rest stop, Asai Three Sisters Village is a cultural gateway. Visitors can savor regional delicacies like roasted yam rice and handmade gelato crafted from rare Jersey cow milk, shop for organic vegetables, local rice, and traditional crafts, or explore the nearby battlefields of the historic Anegawa Conflict. With its thoughtful blend of heritage, hospitality, and local pride, this roadside station invites travelers to slow down, discover the past, and taste the heart of rural Japan.
Why Visit
Visit Asai Three Sisters Village roadside station to experience the only roadside station in the region offering authentic dishes centered around the historic legacy of the Three Sisters of the Asai family. Here, you can savor the signature Oichi Gosen meal—hot tempura made with locally grown vegetables served with a traditional jinenjo (mountain yam) rice dish, a rare 6th-generation agricultural product. Equally unique is the handcrafted gelato made exclusively from Jersey cow milk, with seasonal fruits sourced directly from nearby farms. These are not just snacks—they are edible history, available nowhere else.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor authentic local flavors at Asai Three Sisters Village roadside station, where seasonal ingredients meet traditional recipes in a cozy, welcoming setting.
Restaurant
レストラン
Specialty
Local yam and traditional broth served with rice or soba noodles
A cozy dining space offering traditional Japanese cuisine with a focus on local ingredients. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, perfect for enjoying a hearty meal made with regional produce.
Café
軽食・喫茶
Specialty
Handmade gelato using rare Jersey cow milk and seasonal local fruits
A relaxed café serving refreshing desserts and light snacks. The atmosphere is bright and cheerful, ideal for a quick break or a sweet treat.
Shopping Highlights
Discover a curated selection of regional crafts, fresh produce, and handmade goods at Asai Three Sisters Village roadside station.
Farmers Market
地元産野菜
Fresh locally grown vegetables and seasonal produce.
Products
Must-Try Item
Fresh local vegetables
Bakery
手作り弁当
Freshly made bento boxes and prepared meals using local ingredients.
Products
Must-Try Item
Local vegetable bento
Dairy
米（精米 玄米各種）
Local rice in various forms including polished and brown rice.
Products
Must-Try Item
Local rice
Souvenir
お土産（地酒 菓子類）
Local specialty products including regional sake and confectionery.
Products
Must-Try Item
Local sake
General Store
加工食品
Various processed food items made from local ingredients.
Products
Must-Try Item
Local processed food
Alcohol
地酒
Locally produced sake and alcoholic beverages.
Products
Must-Try Item
Local sake
Featured Products
Explore signature specialties like natural yam dishes and locally crafted sweets, celebrating the rich heritage of the region.
Jersey Milk Gelato
ジャージー牛乳ジェラート
Handmade gelato using rare Jersey cow milk, known for its rich flavor and creamy texture.
Seasonal Fruit Gelato
地場産果実ジェラート
Gelato made with fresh, seasonal local fruits, offering a vibrant and natural taste.
Local Vegetable Bento
地場野菜弁当
A bento box filled with fresh, locally grown vegetables, prepared with care.
Local Rice
地元米
High-quality rice grown in the region, available in polished and brown forms.
Local Sake
地酒
Premium sake crafted using traditional methods and local ingredients.
Natural Yam Rice
自然薯御膳
A special rice dish made with locally grown yam, known for its unique texture and flavor.
Facilities & Amenities
Enjoy convenient amenities including spacious parking, EV charging, restrooms, and free Wi-Fi at Asai Three Sisters Village roadside station.
Parking
81 parking spaces available, including 11 large vehicle spots and 70 regular vehicle spots.
Near the main entrance of the roadside station
EV Charging Station
One EV charging station available for electric vehicles.
Near the main parking area
Wireless LAN
Free wireless LAN available throughout the facility.
Throughout the roadside station
Restroom
Male restrooms: 6 small, 3 large; Female restrooms: 10; Accessible restroom: 1.
Near the main entrance and information center
Information Center
Staffed information desk providing regional tourism and specialty product information. Open from 9:00 to 18:00.
Main building near the entrance
Nursing Room
A multi-purpose accessible toilet with facilities for nursing mothers.
Near the restroom area
ATM
One ATM available for cash withdrawal.
Near the shop and information center
Activities & Experiences
Immerse yourself in hands-on workshops and seasonal events that bring the history and culture of the area to life.
Historical Exploration Tour
歴史散策
Explore the historical sites related to the Azai sisters, including the ruins of Odani Castle and the ancient battlefield of Anegawa, with guided insights into the Sengoku period and the legacy of the Azai family.
Duration
60 min
Seasonal Vegetable Harvest Experience
季節の野菜収穫体験
Participate in harvesting seasonal local vegetables at the roadside station's farm, learning about sustainable farming practices and enjoying fresh produce from the region.
Duration
90 min
Please wear appropriate outdoor clothing and footwear. Activities may be canceled in heavy rain.
Handmade Jam Workshop
手作りジャム作り体験
Create your own fruit jam using locally sourced seasonal fruits under the guidance of experienced staff, learning traditional preservation techniques.
Duration
120 min
Workshop held indoors; no weather dependency.
Natural Yam Rice Cooking Experience
自然薯ご飯作り体験
Learn how to prepare traditional local dishes using natural yam (jinenjo), including making a special rice dish with local dashi broth.
Duration
100 min
Seasonal Fruit Ice Cream Making
季節の果物アイスクリーム作り体験
Create your own ice cream using fresh seasonal fruits and Jersey cow milk, with guidance on flavor blending and texture control.
Duration
80 min
Workshop held indoors; no weather dependency.
Local Craft and Souvenir Making
地元工芸品作り体験
Engage in hands-on crafting of traditional local souvenirs using natural materials, such as wood or clay, inspired by regional culture.
Duration
110 min
Guided Heritage Walk
歴史ウォークガイド
Join a guided walking tour around the Azai sisters' historical sites, including Odani Castle ruins and the Anegawa battlefield, with detailed storytelling about the Sengoku period.
Duration
75 min
Wear comfortable walking shoes. Tours may be canceled during heavy rain.
Insider Tips
Visit during off-peak hours for a quieter experience and ask staff for hidden local gems and seasonal highlights.
- Best Arrival Time: Visit between 9:30 AM and 10:30 AM on weekdays to secure the last of the day's fresh-baked milk bread, which is only available in limited quantities and typically sells out by 11:00 AM.
- Hidden Gems: At the deli counter, look for the seasonal jagō (wild yam) salad made with locally grown jinenjo, available only during the summer months and often sold out by early afternoon.
- Weekend Special: On Saturdays and Sundays, arrive before 12:00 PM to purchase the Oichi Special Bento—a rice box with tempura made from local vegetables—before it sells out, as it is only prepared in limited batches.
- Best Time for Fresh Produce: Stop by the vegetable stall between 9:15 AM and 9:45 AM to pick up the day’s first harvest of locally grown cucumbers and tomatoes, which are delivered fresh each morning and frequently sell out by 11:00 AM.
- Best Time to Try the Local Gelato: Visit the café counter between 1:00 PM and 2:00 PM on weekends to enjoy the limited-edition seasonal gelato made with fresh local fruit, which is only available in small batches and changes weekly.
- Insider Dining Tip: Order the Jinenjo Donburi (yam rice bowl) at the restaurant between 11:30 AM and 1:00 PM on weekdays to guarantee it’s made with the freshest natural yam, as it is prepared only once per day and often sells out by 1:30 PM.
- Best Time to Visit the Information Desk: Go to the information desk between 10:00 AM and 10:30 AM on weekdays to speak with a staff member who can provide detailed walking route maps to the small valley trail near the former Oda Castle site, which is not listed on standard tourist maps.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March-May): Fresh bamboo shoots available at the market in early spring, with canola flowers peaking in late March to April.
Summer (June-August): Natural yam (jinenjo) harvest begins in July, featured in seasonal dishes and local products.
Autumn (September-November): Harvest festival runs from mid-September through November, showcasing autumn produce and local crafts.
Winter (December-February): Limited seasonal offerings, with special winter events in December and January.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Offers a play area, stroller-friendly paths, and family facilities. Features child-friendly food like gelato and seasonal treats. Safe, accessible parking and educational history exhibits enhance the experience.
Food Lover Review
Provides diverse dining with local specialties like yam (jinenjo) rice and seasonal fruit gelato. Fresh local produce, handmade bento, and regional sake are available. High-quality artisan products elevate the culinary experience.
Car Camping Review
Has 24-hour restrooms, vending machines, and EV charging. Quiet surroundings with ample parking. Overnight stays are permitted, though no explicit policy is stated, limiting full comfort.
Scenic Beauty Review
Offers panoramic views of Lake Biwa and the surrounding countryside from the site. Scenic viewpoints at nearby Odani Castle ruins and Anegawa battlefield provide excellent photo opportunities. Seasonal landscapes enhance visual appeal.