Discover the Heart of Rural Japan at Oku-Eigenji Gorge Village
Nestled along the serene flow of the Aichi River near the border of Shiga and Mie Prefectures, Oku-Eigenji Gorge Village stands as a rare fusion of tradition and modern community service. Housed in the restored former Machidoko Middle School, this roadside station blends the charm of Japan’s rural heritage with essential local functions—featuring a branch of the city office, a medical clinic, and emergency preparedness facilities. It’s more than a stopover; it’s a living hub where travelers connect with the land, people, and culture of the mountains.
Visitors are drawn to its vibrant offerings: the famed Higashiomi konjac, the rare Machidoko tea, fresh mountain trout from the pristine streams, and artisanal honey from local bees. Explore the “Forest’s Little Aquarium,” where native fish like iwana and amago swim in clear waters, or browse handcrafted woodwork from the region’s famed woodworkers. With a farm-to-table café, EV charging, and free Wi-Fi, Oku-Eigenji Gorge Village offers a truly immersive experience in the quiet beauty of central Japan’s countryside.
Why Visit
Visit Oku-Eigenji Gorge Village to experience the only roadside station in Japan where you can taste authentic Iwana and Amago trout—caught from the pristine Aichi River, the source of Lake Biwa—preserved in traditional shime-ni (simmered) form. The station also houses the region’s sole producer of Masakaki Tea, a rare, hand-harvested mountain green tea grown only in this high-altitude valley.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor authentic regional flavors at Oku-Eigenji Gorge Village roadside station.
Hometown Learning House
ふる里 まなびや
Specialty
Traditional local cuisine with a focus on seasonal ingredients from the region
A cozy dining space offering authentic regional dishes made with locally sourced ingredients, providing a warm and welcoming atmosphere that reflects the rural charm of the area.
Uwomatsu
うをまつ
Specialty
Light meals and snacks with a focus on local ingredients and seasonal offerings
A casual food stall offering quick, satisfying meals and snacks made with fresh, regional produce, perfect for a midday break in a relaxed setting.
Shopping Highlights
Discover local crafts and fresh produce at Oku-Eigenji Gorge Village roadside station.
Farm, Forest, and Fisheries Direct Sales Store
農林水産物直売所
A direct sales shop offering fresh local produce, including vegetables, rice, mushrooms, and other regional specialties.
Products
Must-Try Item
Oku-Eigenji Konjac
Craft and Specialty Goods Corner
物販・特産品コーナー
A dedicated corner showcasing and selling local specialty products and crafts.
Products
Must-Try Item
Oku-Eigenji Konjac
Woodcraft Studio
木工製品
A shop featuring handmade wooden crafts and artworks created by local woodworkers.
Products
Must-Try Item
Handmade Wooden Box
Featured Products
Explore signature items like永源寺こんにゃく and政所茶, crafted from the region's pure waters and rich soil.
Oku-Eigenji Konjac
永源寺こんにゃく
A locally produced konjac made from traditional methods, known for its firm texture and health benefits.
Matsudo Tea
政所茶
A rare and premium tea grown in the mountainous region, known for its delicate flavor and aromatic profile.
Iwana and Amago Simmered Fish
イワナ・アマゴの姿煮
Whole fish from the clear streams, simmered in a traditional local broth and preserved for long-term enjoyment.
Honey from Mountain Bees
ミツバチのはちみつ
Pure honey harvested from bees that thrive in the pristine mountain forests, known for its rich and intense flavor.
Maitake Mushrooms
マイタケ
Freshly harvested maitake mushrooms grown in the natural mountain environment, prized for their flavor and texture.
Handmade Wooden Box
手作り木箱
A beautifully crafted wooden box made by local artisans, ideal as a gift or decorative item.
Handcrafted Wooden Spoon
手作り木スプーン
A durable and elegant wooden spoon made from locally sourced wood, perfect for everyday use.
Local Rice
永源寺米
High-quality rice grown in the fertile fields of the region, known for its soft texture and rich taste.
Facilities & Amenities
Enjoy convenient amenities including parking, restrooms, EV charging, and emergency services at Oku-Eigenji Gorge Village roadside station.
Parking Lot
The roadside station has a parking lot with 45 spaces, including 5 large vehicle spots, 36 regular vehicle spots, and 4 accessible spots for people with disabilities.
Near the main entrance
Restroom
There are 16 restroom facilities, including 8 for men, 7 for women, and 1 multi-purpose restroom. The multi-purpose restroom includes a dedicated accessible stall.
Inside the station building
Wi-Fi
Free wireless LAN is available at the roadside station.
Throughout the facility
Information Center
The roadside station provides information on roads, local areas, and tourism. Various pamphlets are available for visitors.
Near the entrance
EV Charging Station
An electric vehicle charging facility is available for use. The station has one EV charger installed.
Near the parking area
Insider Tips
Plan your visit around seasonal highlights and local events for the best experience at Oku-Eigenji Gorge Village roadside station.
- Best Arrival Time: Arrive by 10:30 AM on weekdays to secure a seat at the Uwomatsu eatery before the lunch rush, as the Iwana and Amago simmered dishes are served only until 1:30 PM and often sell out by 1:00 PM.
- Hidden Gems: Visit the Farmers' Market Corner between 9:30–10:00 AM to find the day’s fresh Shiitake mushrooms and Maitake mushrooms, which are displayed only in the morning and frequently sell out by noon.
- Weekend Special: On weekends, visit the Konyaku & Tea Specialty Counter before 11:00 AM to purchase the limited-edition Matsudo Tea in small 50g tins, which are restocked only once per week and often sell out by midday.
- Best Food Experience: Order the Iwana and Amago simmered dish at Uwomatsu between 11:00 AM and 1:30 PM—this seasonal menu item is only available during the spring and early summer months and is not listed on the standard menu.
- EV Charging Tip: Use the EV charging station between 10:00 AM and 3:00 PM during winter months (December–March) when the facility is less crowded and the power supply is more stable, as it operates on a shared grid system.
- Unique Local Product: Pick up the hand-carved wooden crafts at the Woodworker’s Corner—they are only available on the first and third Saturdays of each month during the Wood Artisan Market, held from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM.
- Best Photo Spot: Visit the Small Streamside Aquarium located just past the main parking area to see the Iwana and Amago fish swimming in the natural streambed; the best time to photograph them is between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM when the sunlight hits the water directly.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March–May): Fresh bamboo shoots available in early spring, with the peak of canola flower viewing in late March to April.
Summer (June–August): Ideal for visiting the stream-side fish tank and enjoying cool mountain air amid lush greenery.
Autumn (September–November): Best for viewing autumn foliage near Daimonji Temple, with the 10th anniversary celebration in November.
Winter (December–February): Quiet season with warm local dishes like konjac stew and seasonal tea at the roadside station.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
The roadside station features a multi-purpose toilet, stroller-friendly pathways, and a small fish tank showcasing local stream fish, offering educational value. While no dedicated play area is mentioned, the natural surroundings and interactive water exhibit provide child-friendly engagement.
Food Lover Review
Offers diverse local specialties including Okueigenji konjac, Masako tea, fresh mountain trout, honey, and shiitake mushrooms. The dining options serve authentic regional dishes, and the farm produce is fresh and seasonal, enhancing the overall culinary experience.
Car Camping Review
Provides 45 parking spaces, 16 toilets, and 24-hour access, supporting overnight stays. While no official overnight parking policy is stated, the quiet location and available facilities make it moderately suitable for car camping.
Scenic Beauty Review
Located along the clear source of Biwa Lake's river, the site offers serene natural surroundings, seasonal landscapes, and scenic viewpoints. The forested setting and nearby water features create a peaceful, aesthetically pleasing atmosphere.