Discover the Heart of Japan at Domanaka Tanuma
Located at the geographic center of Japan in Tochigi’s scenic Yashiro district, Domanaka Tanuma is a vibrant roadside station where culture, cuisine, and nature converge. Renowned for its fresh local produce, handcrafted treats, and diverse dining—from authentic ramen to artisanal gelato—this dynamic hub offers a full sensory experience. With themed zones for eating, shopping, relaxing, and playing, it’s a true “满点 station” for travelers seeking authentic regional joy.
Why Visit
Visit Domanaka Tanuma, Japan’s geographical center, for fresh local produce, authentic Sano ramen, and handcrafted gelato made with Jersey cow milk. Explore unique stalls, enjoy seasonal events, and relax at the foot bath—all in one vibrant roadside station.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor the essence of local flavors at Domanaka Tanuma, where fresh ingredients meet culinary creativity in every bite.
Chinese Dining Hana to Hana
中華レストラン｢花と華｣
Specialty
Authentic Chinese cuisine using locally sourced fresh vegetables
A full-service Chinese restaurant offering a wide range of authentic dishes, including various set menus. Known for its affordable pricing and high-quality meals, it's ideal for casual dining, business gatherings, and special events. Lunch options are available on weekdays.
Hana Mizuki Japanese-Western Fusion Restaurant
和洋食レストラン｢はなみずき｣
Specialty
Japanese-Western fusion cuisine with local specialties
A self-service restaurant offering a diverse menu that blends traditional Japanese and Western dishes. Known for its welcoming atmosphere and wide selection of seasonal and regional foods.
Pana Pana Self-Service Restaurant
セルフレストラン「ぱなパナ」
Specialty
Sano local specialties and casual dining
A casual self-service restaurant offering a variety of local and comfort foods. Perfect for quick meals or relaxed dining with a view.
Shopping Highlights
Discover a vibrant array of regional treasures and crafted goods at Domanaka Tanuma's bustling marketplace.
Bakery Mekahata
パン工房｢麦畑｣
A handmade bakery offering freshly baked breads, pastries, and homemade jam. Known for its artisanal quality and seasonal ingredients.
Products
Must-Try Item
Mini Croissants (sold by weight)
Gelato Club
ジェラート倶楽部
A handmade gelato and soft-serve ice cream shop using Jersey cow milk. Offers seasonal flavors and original desserts made from gelato.
Products
Must-Try Item
Seasonal Gelato (20 varieties available)
Taito Takoyaki Fushiro
たい焼きタコ焼き「富次郎」
A specialty shop dedicated to handmade taiyaki and takoyaki. Known for its fresh, homemade fillings and traditional preparation methods.
Products
Must-Try Item
Homemade Taiyaki with generous filling
Farmers Market Asa Sairi Kan
農産物直売所「朝採り館」
A direct-to-consumer market where local farmers sell fresh, daily-harvested vegetables. Focuses on quality, freshness, and safety.
Products
Must-Try Item
Freshly harvested vegetables
Rice Workshop
米工房
A rice workshop offering high-quality rice from Sano and other regions. Provides on-site milling with customizable white rice levels.
Products
Must-Try Item
Sano-grown Koshihikari Rice
Colorful Store
特産品「彩り館」
A specialty store selling local and regional products, including traditional crafts and exclusive items from Tochigi Prefecture.
Products
Must-Try Item
Domannaka Natto
Featured Products
Explore signature specialties like handmade gelato, local sake, and unique Tokushima-inspired delicacies.
Domannaka Natto
どまんなか納豆
A locally produced, premium natto made with care and tradition in Tochigi Prefecture.
Carrot Dressing
人参ドレッシング
A unique, naturally flavored dressing made from fresh carrots, perfect for salads and vegetables.
Jersey Milk Gelato
ジャージー牛乳のジェラート
Rich and creamy gelato made from premium Jersey cow milk, offering a smooth and indulgent taste.
Sano Rice
佐野産コシヒカリ
High-quality Koshihikari rice grown in Sano, known for its excellent texture and flavor.
Homemade Jam
オリジナルジャム
Artisanal jam made from seasonal fruits, crafted with care and natural ingredients.
Mini Croissants
ミニクロワッサン
Small, flaky croissants made fresh daily, available by weight.
Fresh Orange Juice
生搾りオレンジジュース
Freshly squeezed orange juice from locally grown oranges, available from a vending machine.
Facilities & Amenities
Enjoy convenient amenities including 24-hour restrooms, parking, EV charging, and welcoming rest areas.
Parking Lot
Available for 470 regular cars, 22 large vehicles, 6 disabled parking spots, and 10 motorcycle-only spots. One EV rapid charging station is also available.
General area
Toilet
Outdoor toilets are available 24 hours a day with 8 small men's, 3 large men's, 10 women's, and 1 disabled toilet (ostomy-friendly). Indoor toilets include 5 small men's, 2 large men's, 4 women's, and 1 disabled toilet.
General area
Information Counter
Provides road guidance, brochures, and sells road station stamps and stamp rally confirmations. Features a map of Tochigi Prefecture's road stations and a wide selection of brochures and information magazines.
In front of the friendly hall
Wi-Fi
Available for visitors throughout the roadside station.
General area
Children's Play Area
A dedicated zone for children to play and enjoy, located within the facility.
General area
Hot Spring
A hot spring facility is available for visitors to enjoy.
General area
EV Charging Station
One rapid EV charging station is available for electric vehicles.
General area
ATM
An ATM is available for visitors to use.
General area
Pet Area
A designated area for pets is available for visitors to use.
General area
Insider Tips
Maximize your visit with insider advice on peak hours, seasonal highlights, and hidden gems within the station.
- Best Arrival Time: Arrive between 8:30 AM and 9:30 AM to access the freshest produce at the "朝採り館" (Morning Harvest Hall) before midday crowds and to secure parking near the entrance.
- Hidden Gems: Visit the "イタリアンガーデン" (Italian Garden) early in the day to see the whimsical "いもフライ" (sweet potato fry) sculpture and enjoy quiet photo opportunities among the flower beds.
- Weekend Bonuses: On Saturdays and Sundays, the "どまんなかマルシェ" (Domanaka Market) features rotating local artisans and food vendors; arrive by 10:00 AM to catch the full lineup before popular items sell out.
- Photo Opportunities: The "展望台" (Viewpoint) near the parking area offers panoramic views of the surrounding farmland and is especially beautiful at sunrise—arrive by 7:00 AM to capture clear skies and soft light.
- Money Savers: Purchase bulk rice at the "米工房" (Rice Workshop) and request free on-site milling; choose from 8 varieties of local and regional rice to save money and ensure freshness.
- Avoiding Crowds: Skip the main entrance during weekday afternoons; instead, enter via the southern side near the "ジェラート倶楽部" (Gelato Club) and head to the back parking area for easier access and fewer people.
- Closure Alerts: Check the official website or Instagram page before visiting, as the "CHINESE DINING「花と華」" (Chinese Dining Hana to Kawa) closed permanently in March 2025, and some events may be canceled without notice.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March-May): Spring offers fresh produce at the "朝採り館," with seasonal vegetables like asparagus and strawberries available from late March to May.
Summer (June-August): Summer brings peak harvests of tomatoes, cucumbers, and melons, along with fresh orange juice from the new self-serve machine.
Fall (September-November): Autumn highlights include sweet potatoes, pumpkins, and locally grown apples, perfect for seasonal treats and farm-fresh snacks.
Winter (December-February): Winter is ideal for cozy visits, featuring warm dishes like handmade ramen, seasonal snacks, and festive events at the roadside station.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Play area, child-friendly food, stroller access, and interactive zones enhance family appeal.
Food Lover Review
Diverse local cuisine, fresh produce, artisanal treats, and specialty restaurants elevate food experience.
Car Camping Review
Ample parking and 24/7 facilities support overnight stays, though no designated camping area.
Scenic Beauty Review
Scenic views, well-designed gardens, and seasonal displays create a visually appealing atmosphere.