Station Ibuki-no-Sato

Discover the Heart of Shiga’s Countryside at Ibuki-no-Sato

Nestled in the scenic foothills of Mount Ibuki in northern Shiga Prefecture, Ibuki-no-Sato stands as a vibrant roadside station where nature, tradition, and local craftsmanship converge. Located along the main regional road, it serves as a welcoming gateway for travelers exploring the region’s rich agricultural heritage and stunning mountain vistas. With panoramic views of Japan’s famed Mount Ibuki from its second-floor terrace, the station offers a serene escape framed by evergreen forests and rolling farmland.

At the heart of Ibuki-no-Sato is its bustling farm market, where seasonal vegetables, fresh fruits like local strawberries and persimmons, and unique products such as Ibuki Radish Dressing are proudly showcased. The on-site café, Shokudō Honami, serves hearty meals made with regional ingredients, including rice grown in the mountain’s pure spring water. Visitors can also enjoy hands-on experiences—from soba making and natural dyeing to crafting lavender sticks and kokedama—connecting deeply with local culture. Whether you're seeking fresh produce, a peaceful moment with mountain views, or a chance to create something beautiful, Ibuki-no-Sato offers a memorable journey into the soul of Shiga’s countryside.

Perched along the route to Japan’s 100 Famous Mountains, Ibuki-no-Sato offers a rare chance to taste the region’s only伊吹大根ドレッシング—crafted from the famed Ibu Daikon, a traditional vegetable grown only in this high-altitude valley. At the roadside station, visitors can also try authentic Ibu soba made from heirloom local buckwheat, a legacy of the area’s status as the birthplace of Japanese soba. From the 2nd-floor terrace, the towering peak of Mount Ibuki dominates the horizon, offering a view unmatched by any other roadside station in the region.

• Best Arrival Time: Arrive by 10:30 AM on weekdays to secure a seat at "Shokudo Honami" before the lunch rush, as the last order is at 14:00 and the dining area fills quickly during peak hours.

• Hidden Gems: Visit the "Mori no Tami" shop between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM to find the limited daily batch of homemade "Ibuki Daikon Dressing" — it often sells out by early afternoon.

• Weekend Special: On weekends, visit the "PAN PAAAN!" bakery at 9:00 AM to purchase the day’s first batch of handcrafted breads, including the popular milk bread, which sells out by 11:00 AM.

• Best View Spot: Head to the second-floor terrace at 4:00 PM on weekdays to enjoy the best view of Mount Ibuki with golden-hour lighting, as the sun sets behind the mountain and the visibility is optimal.

• Specialty Product: Purchase the "Ibuki Soba" flour or ready-made soba noodles at the "Mori no Tami" shop — these are made from native Iwaki variety buckwheat, a regional specialty not available elsewhere.

• Experience Timing: Book the "Soba Uchi" (soba making) experience in advance and arrive by 10:00 AM on your scheduled day to complete the full session, as the workshop runs from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM and includes tasting.

• Parking Tip: Use the designated handicapped parking spots located directly in front of the main entrance if you’re visiting with mobility challenges, as they are closer to the entrance than the general parking area.

Spring (March–May): Fresh mountain vegetables and early-season bamboo shoots available at the market; ideal for hiking to Ibiyama's flower fields.

Summer (June–August): Late-season strawberries and fresh grapes sold; extended hours from 9:15 to 17:30.

Autumn (September–November): New rice, hawthorn, broccoli, and seasonal specialties from local farms.

Winter (December–February): Ibiyama radish and pickled products available; best for experiencing traditional crafts like soba-making.