Savor the Flavors of Tochigi’s Heartland
Nestled in the scenic countryside of Motegi, Tochigi Prefecture, this roadside station is a vibrant celebration of local craftsmanship, seasonal produce, and authentic regional cuisine. Surrounded by rolling fields and lush greenery, Motegi Michi-no-Eki offers more than just a pit stop—it’s a destination where tradition meets innovation. Visitors can explore a diverse array of experiences, from savoring handcrafted treats to discovering the stories behind the region’s finest ingredients.
At the heart of the station lies the beloved Yuzu Salt Ramen, a local favorite that has earned national acclaim and even made it into the “Michi-no-Eki Grand Prix Hall of Fame.” Sip a warm bowl at the restaurant or take home the gourmet gift version. Don’t miss the handmade cheesecakes from Yuzu no Ki Bakery, seasonal fruit mixes, and refreshing yuzu yogurt ice cream. With a children’s playground shaped like a steam locomotive, a flower garden, and a fully stocked farm stand, Motegi Michi-no-Eki invites families to linger, explore, and create lasting memories.
Why Visit
Visit Motegi roadside station to savor the only yuzu salt ramen in the region, a locally celebrated dish awarded top honors in the national Michi no Eki Grand Prix. Indulge in handcrafted treats like the signature cheese baumkuchen from Yuzu no Ki bakery, made with milk from local Jersey cows. Explore the seasonal flower garden and interactive SL-themed playground, offering a unique blend of agricultural charm and family fun unlike any other roadside station.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor authentic local flavors at Motegi roadside station, where fresh ingredients meet traditional recipes.
Restaurant Kikyo
レストラン桔梗
Specialty
Handmade soba and wagashi rice bowls
A traditional restaurant offering locally sourced ingredients, specializing in handmade soba noodles served with wagashi rice bowls. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, ideal for a relaxing meal.
Tsukejiru Udon Tent
つけ汁うどん店
Specialty
Soy sauce-based udon soup
A casual food stall serving a rich, savory udon soup with a traditional tsukejiru broth. The atmosphere is lively and perfect for a quick, satisfying meal.
Yuzu Salt Ramen
道の駅もてぎのゆず塩ら〜めん
Specialty
Yuzu salt ramen
A unique ramen dish featuring a refreshing yuzu-infused salt broth, served with fresh noodles and local toppings. The ambiance is modern and inviting, perfect for ramen enthusiasts.
Shopping Highlights
Discover handcrafted treasures and regional specialties at Motegi roadside station’s vibrant shops.
Baukou Yuzu no Ki
バウム工房ゆずの木
A handmade cake shop specializing in cheese baukou cakes and other baked goods. All products are made without preservatives, artificial colors, or additives.
Products
Must-Try Item
Cheese Bao
Kaya (Chestnut) Souvenir Shop
おみやげ けやき(欅)
A souvenir shop offering locally crafted and traditional products from Motegi Town, including handmade items and regional specialties.
Products
Must-Try Item
Chestnut-themed souvenirs
Jukokuya
十石屋
A specialty shop offering a variety of dairy and local food products, including the famous yuzu salt ramen and other regional delicacies.
Products
Must-Try Item
Yuzu Salt Ramen
Vegetable Market
野菜直売所
A fresh produce market offering locally grown vegetables and seasonal fruits directly from farmers.
Products
Must-Try Item
Freshly harvested vegetables
Fukijiro Handmade Ice Cream
手づくりアイスクリーム･富次郎
A handmade ice cream shop offering a variety of fresh, natural ice creams made with seasonal ingredients.
Products
Must-Try Item
Apple Yogurt Ice Cream
Featured Products
Try signature items like yuzu salt ramen and handmade cheesecakes, made with pride from Motegi’s finest produce.
Yuzu Salt Ramen (Gift Version)
道の駅もてぎのゆず塩ら〜めん
A popular yuzu salt ramen with a refreshing citrus flavor, available for purchase as a gift or home meal. Made with local ingredients and no artificial additives.
Cheese Bao Cake
チーズバウムクーヘン
A rich, creamy cheese bao cake made with high-quality ingredients and no preservatives. Known for its soft texture and delicious flavor.
Yuzu Bao Cake
ゆずバウムクーヘン
A light and refreshing bao cake infused with natural yuzu flavor, perfect for a sweet treat.
Rice Flour Bao Cake
米粉バウムクーヘン
A gluten-free bao cake made with rice flour, ideal for those with dietary restrictions. Soft, delicate, and naturally sweet.
Apple Yogurt Ice Cream
りんごヨーグルトアイス
A refreshing ice cream made with fresh apples and natural yogurt, offering a sweet and tangy flavor.
Mixed Fruit Ice Cream
たっぷりフルーツミックス
A vibrant ice cream blend of fresh seasonal fruits, offering a burst of natural flavor in every bite.
Whole Blueberry
まるごとブルーベリー
Fresh whole blueberries, harvested at peak season. Known for their rich flavor and high antioxidant content.
Facilities & Amenities
Enjoy 24-hour restrooms, free Wi-Fi, and a family-friendly environment at Motegi roadside station.
Public Toilets
Available 24 hours a day.
Throughout the roadside station
Free Public Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi is available 24 hours a day. SSID: MICHI-NO-EKI.
Throughout the roadside station
Tourism Information Counter
Located inside the Yuzu no Ki Bakery Workshop. Provides information about Motegi Town and surrounding areas. Open 9:00–18:00.
Inside the Yuzu no Ki Bakery Workshop
SL Playground
Play equipment shaped like a steam locomotive (SL), allowing free play for children.
Tenkaku River Park
Event Plaza
Features a tricycle corner where children can play for free.
Event Plaza
Nursing Room
Located on the first floor of the Disaster Prevention Hall. Please visit the reception desk to access it.
First floor of the Disaster Prevention Hall
EV Fast Charger
Currently out of service due to maintenance. Not available for use.
Near the entrance area
ATM
Available for use at the roadside station.
Near the entrance area
Insider Tips
Visit early to avoid crowds and check seasonal events for exclusive local experiences at Motegi roadside station.
- Best Arrival Time: Arrive by 9:30 AM on weekends to secure the first batch of fresh cheesecake from the Baume Factory Yuzu no Ki, which sells out quickly due to high demand
- Hidden Gems: Visit the deli counter at the Kaya (Chestnut) gift shop between 11:00 AM and 12:00 PM on weekdays to find the day’s limited supply of handmade rice flour baumkuchen, which is not available online
- Weekend Special: On Saturdays and Sundays, try the tsukejiru udon served at the tent stall between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM, as this is the only time this seasonal dish is available
- Unique Product Timing: Purchase the yuzu salt ramen in the souvenir version at the Jukokuya shop before 3:00 PM on weekdays, as it sells out by late afternoon and is only restocked weekly on Mondays
- Best Ice Cream Time: Head to the Toshiro ice cream stand at 10:00 AM on weekdays to get the fresh batch of apple yogurt ice cream, which is made daily and only available until 4:00 PM
- Free Wi-Fi Access: Connect to the free public Wi-Fi named MICHI-NO-EKI at the Baume Factory Yuzu no Ki café to access real-time updates on the daily schedule for the event plaza and SL playground
- Avoid Waiting at the Restroom: Use the restroom near the parking lot during peak hours (11:00 AM–1:00 PM on weekends), as the one in the disaster prevention hall often has long lines due to its proximity to the restaurant and café areas
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March–May): Late March to April features peak canola flower viewing and picking at the roadside station.
Summer (June–August): Fresh bamboo shoots are available at the market through early summer.
Autumn (September–November): The seasonal highlight is the yuzu salt ramen, introduced in November.
Winter (December–February): The "Motegi Hometown Gift" collection launches in November, offering winter specialties.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Motegi roadside station offers a children's play area with an SL-themed playground, stroller-friendly paths, and family activities. It includes a nursing room and free Wi-Fi, enhancing comfort for families.
Food Lover Review
Motegi roadside station features diverse dining options including specialty udon, handmade ice cream, and unique citrus ramen. Local produce and artisanal goods like cheesecakes and fruit mixes enhance the culinary experience.
Car Camping Review
Motegi roadside station provides 24-hour restrooms and vending machines, with a quiet, park-like setting. Overnight parking is allowed, though no formal camping facilities are available.
Scenic Beauty Review
Motegi roadside station offers scenic views of seasonal flower fields and a nearby river. The SL-themed playground and natural surroundings provide strong photo opportunities and a peaceful, aesthetic atmosphere.