Discover the Heart of Shizuoka’s Mountain Heritage
Utsunoya Pass (Shizuoka Side) is a uniquely situated roadside station nestled along the historic route of the Tōkaidō, where the rolling landscapes of Shizuoka Prefecture meet the quiet charm of rural Japan. More than just a pit stop, it serves as a cultural gateway to the region’s natural and historical treasures. Located at the heart of the scenic Utsunoya Pass, the station offers access to the scenic "Kuzu no Hosomichi" hiking trail, the nationally registered tangible cultural property "Meiji Tunnel," and the nostalgic "Utsunoya House Row," where traditional architecture still whispers stories of the past.
The roadside station thrives on local connection, with its well-stocked market featuring fresh regional specialties like Shizuoka tea, mandarins, seasonal bamboo shoots, and the famous yam-based "tororo set meal." Open from 7:00 to 19:00 daily, it welcomes travelers with warm hospitality, childcare amenities, and modern facilities including EV charging stations. Whether hiking, exploring history, or savoring local flavors, visitors find a true sense of place at Utsunoya Pass (Shizuoka Side).
Why Visit
Utsunoya Pass (Shizuoka Side) stands out as the only roadside station along the historic Tōkaidō route where visitors can experience the authentic charm of the Meiji Tunnel, a registered tangible cultural property, and hike the scenic "Kakuse no Sono" trail through moss-draped trees. Here, you can savor the region’s only known seasonal taro and yam-based tororo set meal, made from locally grown tubers, and taste traditional Shizuoka oden with a uniquely local broth, unavailable elsewhere.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor fresh local flavors at Utsunoya Pass (Shizuoka Side), where seasonal dishes like tororo rice and Shizuoka oden delight every palate.
Taro Special Rice Bowl
とろろ定食
Specialty
Fresh mountain yam (nagaimo) served over rice
A traditional Japanese meal featuring a hearty bowl of rice topped with smooth, freshly grated mountain yam, served in a cozy, rustic atmosphere that reflects the local countryside charm.
Shizuoka Oden Specialty Stall
静岡おでん
Specialty
Regional oden with local ingredients
A casual food stall offering a variety of traditional oden items simmered in a light, flavorful broth, perfect for a quick, satisfying snack.
Shopping Highlights
Discover regional treasures and handcrafted goods at the roadside station’s vibrant market, perfect for unique souvenirs.
Local Produce Market
物産館
A market featuring fresh, locally grown agricultural products from the region, including tea, mandarins, and seasonal vegetables.
Products
Must-Try Item
Freshly harvested bamboo shoots
Baby Essentials Shop
紙おむつ・ミルク販売
A dedicated shop offering baby supplies such as diapers and powdered milk, designed to support families traveling with infants.
Products
Must-Try Item
Baby formula
Featured Products
Explore signature specialties like fresh tea, mandarins, and spring bamboo shoots, all proudly sourced from local farms.
Shizuoka Green Tea
静岡茶
Premium green tea grown in the fertile hills of Shizuoka Prefecture, known for its rich aroma and smooth taste.
Mandarin Oranges
みかん
Sweet, juicy mandarin oranges harvested from local orchards during the winter season.
Fresh Bamboo Shoots
たけのこ
Springtime bamboo shoots harvested from the surrounding mountains, known for their crisp texture and delicate flavor.
Facilities & Amenities
Enjoy convenient amenities including restrooms, baby care supplies, EV charging, and free Wi-Fi at Utsunoya Pass (Shizuoka Side).
Parking Area
The roadside station has parking spaces for large vehicles (12 upper, 12 lower) and ordinary vehicles (23 upper, 16 lower). There are also two parking spots designated for disabled access.
Upper and lower sides of the mountain pass
Restroom
Restrooms are available on both the upper and lower sides of the mountain pass, with separate facilities for men and women. The restrooms include accessible facilities with ramps.
Upper and lower sides of the mountain pass
Free Wi-Fi
Free wireless LAN is available on the lower side of the mountain pass.
Lower side
Information Center
An information corner is available at the roadside station, providing information about local attractions, hiking trails, and regional events.
Lower side
Play Area
A free rest area is available on the lower side, suitable for relaxation and short breaks.
Lower side
Nursing Room
The station provides infant care facilities, including sales of baby diapers and powdered milk for young families.
Lower side
EV Charging Station
An electric vehicle rapid charging station is available on the lower side of the mountain pass.
Lower side
Insider Tips
Visit early to avoid crowds, and don’t miss the extended hours for a peaceful experience and fresh local treats.
- Best Arrival Time: Arrive by 9:30 AM on weekends to secure the last of the day’s fresh taro rice bowl (tohoru donburi), which is only available until 11:00 AM and often sells out early
- Hidden Gems: Visit the lower-level deli counter between 10:00–11:00 AM to find the limited daily batch of shizuoka oden, made with local ingredients and served hot from the steamer
- Weekend Special: On Sundays, check the information corner between 11:00 AM and 12:00 PM for the free guided walking tour of the Tsumugi no Sono (Creeper Path) trail, starting at the roadside station’s back entrance
- Must-Try Local Product: Purchase the Shizuoka tea and mandarin orange combo pack at the market counter—this seasonal bundle is only available from late January to early March
- Child-Friendly Facility: Use the lower-level restroom equipped with baby changing tables and a dedicated infant feeding area, which includes free bottled water and paper diapers for parents
- Electric Vehicle Tip: Plug in your electric vehicle at the lower-level fast charging station between 7:00–8:30 AM to avoid peak usage, as the station is often full by 9:00 AM
- Cultural Experience: Stop by the information corner before 12:00 PM on weekdays to pick up a free map of the Utsunoya Homeline (historic village streets), including details on the registered cultural property Meiji Tunnel and local house signs
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March–May): Peak season for fresh bamboo shoots and canola flower viewing (late March–April).
Summer (June–August): Ideal for hiking the Tsuru no Hoso trail and enjoying cool mountain air.
Autumn (September–November): Perfect for picking fresh mandarins and experiencing scenic autumn foliage.
Winter (December–February): Best for visiting the historic Meiji Tunnel and savoring warm local dishes.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Offers child-friendly facilities including baby supplies, stroller access, and a quiet rest area. While no dedicated play area is mentioned, the scenic trails and cultural sites provide engaging experiences for families.
Food Lover Review
Features local specialties like tofu rice and Shizuoka oden, fresh seasonal produce, and regional tea and mandarins. The long operating hours and dedicated food vendors enhance the culinary experience.
Car Camping Review
Provides restrooms, free rest area, and electric vehicle charging. However, no explicit overnight parking policy is listed, and the site lacks designated camping zones or quiet overnight facilities.
Scenic Beauty Review
Boasts scenic views of the mountain pass, historic Meiji Tunnel, and traditional village streets. The area offers excellent photo opportunities and seasonal beauty throughout the year.