Step Into the Charm of a Bygone Era
Nestled in the heart of Sakura City, Tochigi Prefecture, Kitsuregawa roadside station invites travelers to unwind in a space where history, nature, and local hospitality converge. Inspired by the nostalgic elegance of the Taisho period, the station blends retro architecture with the serene beauty of rural Japan, offering a rare glimpse into a preserved cultural landscape.
At Kitsuregawa, visitors discover more than just a rest stop. The site features Japan’s renowned “Three Great Beauty Hot Springs,” where mineral-rich waters soothe the body and spirit. Explore a vibrant marketplace showcasing fresh local produce, handcrafted goods, and regional specialties, or enjoy authentic regional cuisine at on-site eateries. With outdoor BBQ and camping areas by the river, and a peaceful atmosphere that honors tradition, Kitsuregawa is a true sanctuary for mindful travel.
Why Visit
Visit Kitsuregawa roadside station to experience Japan’s famed "three great beauty waters" at its naturally heated, mineral-rich hot spring—only here can you soak in a traditional bath while surrounded by nostalgic, early 20th-century architecture. Beyond the waters, enjoy the only local gelato made with fresh milk from Jersey cows, served in a retro-style café, and savor handmade soba from a regional shop using flour milled from locally grown buckwheat—flavors and traditions found nowhere else.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor authentic flavors at Kitsuregawa roadside station, where local cuisine meets seasonal specialties in a cozy, inviting setting.
Kitsuregawa Roadside Station Main Inn
竹末道の駅本陣
Specialty
Traditional Japanese cuisine with local ingredients
A restaurant offering authentic Japanese meals using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, reflecting the nostalgic charm of the area.
Kikyo Hanamiyaya
桔梗 花実や
Specialty
Local specialty dishes with seasonal ingredients
A dining spot serving regional flavors with a focus on seasonal and locally grown produce. The ambiance blends traditional Japanese aesthetics with modern comfort.
Daito Dumplings and Kimchi
餃子とキムチの大都
Specialty
Homemade dumplings and kimchi
A casual food stall specializing in freshly made dumplings and spicy kimchi, offering a flavorful and satisfying meal with a focus on bold tastes.
Nimihei
仁米衛
Specialty
Rice-based dishes and local staples
A restaurant dedicated to rice and traditional Japanese staples, emphasizing simplicity and the natural taste of high-quality grains and local produce.
Kitsuregawa Yama Shokudo
きつれがわ鮎匠
Specialty
Fresh ayu (sweetfish) dishes
A food stall specializing in grilled ayu, a local delicacy known for its delicate flavor and seasonal availability. The setting offers a rustic, countryside dining experience.
Shopping Highlights
Discover locally crafted treasures and fresh produce at Kitsuregawa roadside station, all thoughtfully curated from the heart of Sakura City.
Farmers Market
直売所
A market featuring fresh, locally grown vegetables and regional specialty products from Sakura City, including seasonal produce and handmade goods.
Products
Must-Try Item
Sakura City fresh vegetables
Bakery
パン工房温泉パン
A bakery specializing in handmade breads and pastries, using local ingredients and traditional baking methods.
Products
Must-Try Item
Hot spring bread
Gelato Shop
Gelateria KITS
A gelato shop offering a variety of handcrafted Italian-style gelato made with fresh ingredients.
Products
Must-Try Item
Strawberry gelato
Snack Workshop
惣菜工房花のれん
A shop offering ready-to-eat local snacks and side dishes, perfect for quick meals or picnic supplies.
Products
Must-Try Item
Local vegetable side dish
Taiyaki and Trout Shop
たいやき鱒屋
A small shop specializing in taiyaki (fish-shaped cakes) and trout-based snacks, combining traditional Japanese sweets with local ingredients.
Products
Must-Try Item
Trout taiyaki
Butcher Shop
和気精肉店
A local butcher shop offering high-quality, fresh meat sourced from regional farms.
Products
Must-Try Item
Local beef
Craft and Souvenir Shop
布羽鈴
A shop selling handmade crafts and souvenirs inspired by the local culture and natural beauty of the region.
Products
Must-Try Item
Local craft set
Featured Products
Explore signature items like regional snacks and handmade goods, each reflecting the unique charm of Kitsuregawa and its surroundings.
Sakura City Fresh Vegetables
さくら市産新鮮野菜
Fresh, locally grown vegetables harvested at peak season, known for their crisp texture and natural flavor.
Hot Spring Bread
温泉パン
A unique bread baked with mineral-rich water from the nearby hot spring, giving it a soft texture and subtle mineral taste.
Strawberry Gelato
いちごジェラート
Creamy gelato made with fresh, local strawberries, offering a sweet and refreshing taste.
Trout Taiyaki
鱒たいやき
A traditional taiyaki filled with sweetened trout, combining local seafood with classic Japanese street food.
Local Beef
地元牛
Premium beef sourced from local farms, known for its tenderness and rich flavor.
Local Craft Set
地元工芸セット
A curated set of handmade crafts representing the traditional artistry of the region.
Seasonal Vegetable Side Dish
季節野菜の副菜
A ready-to-eat side dish made with fresh seasonal vegetables, perfect for a quick meal or picnic.
Sakura City Fruit Jam
さくら市フルーツジャム
Homemade jam made from locally grown fruits, with a natural sweetness and rich flavor.
Facilities & Amenities
Relax in natural hot springs or enjoy modern amenities, all within the serene, nostalgic atmosphere of Kitsuregawa roadside station.
Parking
The roadside station has a parking area for visitors.
Near the entrance and throughout the facility
Restroom
Public restrooms are available for visitors.
Throughout the facility, including near the shopping area and spa
Free Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi is available for guests throughout the roadside station.
Throughout the facility
Information Center
A visitor information center is available to provide guidance and local information.
Near the main entrance
Play Area
A play area is available for children, located near the camping and BBQ area.
Adjacent to the BBQ and camping site
Hot Spring
The roadside station features a hot spring with a high-quality sodium chloride mineral bath, known as one of Japan's three famous beauty waters. It includes an indoor bath and an open-air bath with natural hot spring water.
On-site, within the spa facility
EV Charging Station
Electric vehicle charging stations are available for visitors.
Near the parking area
ATM
An ATM is available for cash withdrawal.
Near the entrance and shopping area
Pet Area
A designated area for pets is available, allowing visitors to bring their animals.
Near the outdoor BBQ and camping area
Insider Tips
Plan your visit around seasonal events and off-peak hours to make the most of your stay at Kitsuregawa roadside station.
- Best Arrival Time: Arrive by 9:30 AM to secure a seat at the Pan Bakery, where fresh milk bread is baked daily and typically sells out by 11:00 AM
- Hidden Gems: Visit the Sōzai Kōbō (Specialty Goods Workshop) counter between 10:00 AM and 11:00 AM to find limited-edition seasonal items like the October “Fox’s Wedding” themed bath towel set
- Weekend Special: On weekends, visit the Taikyō Yama (Taikyo Yama) stand between 10:00 AM and 11:30 AM to try the fresh seasonal rice dumplings made with local mountain vegetables
- Best Time for Hot Springs: Enter the hot spring between 10:00 AM and 10:30 AM on weekdays to enjoy the quiet atmosphere and avoid the midday crowds
- Café Timing Tip: Stop by the Gelateria KITS between 10:30 AM and 11:30 AM to get the day’s first batch of seasonal gelato, which is often sold out by 1:00 PM
- Camping Setup: Reserve your BBQ spot at the roadside station’s camping area by arriving before 10:00 AM on weekends, as the first 10 BBQ pits are reserved for early arrivals
- Specialty Food Purchase: Visit the Sōzai Kōbō (Specialty Goods Workshop) between 10:00 AM and 11:00 AM to purchase the monthly limited-edition “Kitsuregawa Mountain Vegetable Bento” sold exclusively during the first two weeks of each month
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March-May): Late March to April offers peak canola flower viewing and fresh bamboo shoots at the roadside station.
Summer (June-August): Ideal for outdoor BBQ and camping by the river, with summer evenings featuring the Kitsuregawa Fireworks Festival.
Autumn (September-November): Enjoy the "Kitsuregawa Fireworks Festival" in November and themed baths like "The Fox's Wedding" in October.
Winter (December-February): Visit for the soothing beauty of Japan's top three skin-friendly hot springs, especially during the winter months.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Offers a play area and stroller-friendly paths. Features kid-friendly food options and interactive cultural elements like themed baths. Restrooms and parking are accessible, though no dedicated children's activities are listed.
Food Lover Review
Features multiple restaurants serving local specialties like grilled eel and regional noodles. Offers fresh produce from the on-site market and artisanal goods. Quality and variety of food options are strong, with several unique local dishes available.
Car Camping Review
Provides restrooms, vending machines, and a designated camping area near a river. Camping is allowed until 11:00 AM the next day. While quiet during weekdays, noise may increase during events. Overnight parking is permitted but not explicitly advertised.
Scenic Beauty Review
Located along a scenic river with views of rural landscapes and seasonal changes. Offers multiple photo spots, including the riverbank and traditional-style buildings. The overall atmosphere blends nostalgia and natural beauty, enhancing the aesthetic appeal.