Discover the Heart of Nasu’s Natural and Cultural Spirit
Nasu Kogen Yuai no Mori, a vibrant roadside station nestled at 470 meters above sea level, stands as a gateway to the scenic Nasu Highlands in Tochigi Prefecture. More than a mere rest stop, it’s a dynamic cultural and agricultural hub where nature, craftsmanship, and community converge. Surrounded by lush forests and rolling farmland, the station offers travelers a rare chance to experience authentic rural Japan.
Visitors can explore the bustling Nasu Royal Highland Market, savor farm-to-table flavors at Nasutoran, or immerse themselves in local art at the Craft Museum, where artisans demonstrate traditional techniques and offer hands-on workshops. With seasonal events like the Gallery Street and the lively Waiwai Fair, there’s always something unique to discover. Whether biking through the surrounding countryside or enjoying fresh local produce, Nasu Kogen Yuai no Mori invites you to slow down and connect with the rhythms of the land.
Why Visit
Nasu Kogen Yuai no Mori stands out as the only roadside station in the region offering a genuine farm-to-table experience centered on那須和牛 and organic mountain vegetables. Visitors can savor the exclusive Nasu Royal Highland Market’s signature cow milk soft serve, made from local Jersey cow milk, and sample the seasonal "Nasu Momban" lunchbox—a locally crafted, one-plate meal using farm-fresh ingredients. The on-site craft gallery also features rare handmade textiles from local artisans, available only here.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor authentic regional flavors at Nasu Kogen Yuai no Mori roadside station, where fresh local ingredients meet traditional cooking.
Nasutoran
なすとらん
Specialty
Traditional home-style cuisine using locally sourced ingredients
Nasutoran offers home-style cooking rooted in local traditions, emphasizing fresh vegetables, seasonal mountain vegetables, high-quality Koshihikari rice, milk, and Nasu Wagyu beef. The restaurant focuses on regional revitalization through food and provides a warm, authentic dining experience.
Shopping Highlights
Discover unique local treasures and seasonal goods at the roadside station’s vibrant market and specialty shops.
Nasu Royal Highland Market
那須ロイヤル高原マルシェ
A market featuring local specialty products, Nasu brand-certified goods, and unique food items made with Nasu Wagyu beef, as well as fresh produce, seasonal flowers, and saplings.
Products
Must-Try Item
Nasu Wagyu Beef Burger
Craft Museum
工芸館
A museum showcasing handcrafted items by local artisans, with a dedicated sales area and live demonstration sessions. Visitors can also participate in hands-on workshops.
Products
Must-Try Item
Handwoven textile art
Featured Products
Explore signature items like Nasu Wagyu delicacies and seasonal farm-fresh produce, celebrating the region’s rich agricultural heritage.
Nasu Wagyu Beef Burger
那須和牛ビーフバーガー
A premium burger made with locally raised Nasu Wagyu beef, served with fresh ingredients and a signature sauce.
Nasu Brand Milk
那須ブランド牛乳
Fresh, high-quality milk produced in the Nasu region, known for its rich flavor and purity.
Nasu Fresh Vegetable Box
那須の新鮮野菜ボックス
A curated box of freshly harvested seasonal vegetables from the Nasu region, ideal for home cooking.
Nasu Mountain Vegetable Mix
那須山菜ミックス
A blend of seasonal mountain vegetables harvested from the Nasu highlands, perfect for soups and stir-fries.
Nasu Forest Sapling
那須森の苗木
A young sapling from native Nasu forest trees, ideal for planting and supporting local ecology.
Facilities & Amenities
Enjoy comfortable amenities including restrooms, parking, and charging stations, all set within a scenic mountain setting.
Tourist Information Center
The tourist information center provides information on tourism and events in Nasu Town and neighboring municipalities. It also sells discounted advance tickets for recreational facilities and Michi-no-Eki tickets.
Located within the roadside station
Gallery Street
A vibrant street featuring local art and crafts, offering a cultural experience for visitors.
Located within the roadside station
Electric Vehicle Fast Charging Station
An electric vehicle charging station available for quick charging of EVs.
Located within the roadside station
Rental Bicycles
Bicycles available for rent, including electric-assist models.
Located within the roadside station
Activities & Experiences
Engage in hands-on workshops and seasonal events, from craft demonstrations to farm-to-table experiences.
Patchwork Art Exhibition
ギャラリーストリート
Participants can view and enjoy patchwork art exhibitions held monthly, featuring traditional and creative textile works.
Duration
60 min
Waiwai Fair
わいわいフェア
Attendees can enjoy a lively local festival featuring crafts, food stalls, and interactive activities celebrating regional culture.
Duration
180 min
Handmade Craft Workshop
工芸館
Participants can engage in hands-on craft making with local artisans, learning traditional techniques and creating their own handmade items.
Duration
90 min
Textile Art Demonstration
工芸館
Attendees can observe live demonstrations of traditional textile arts, including weaving and patchwork, performed by local artisans.
Duration
60 min
Electric Bike Rental
レンタサイクル
Rent electric-assist bicycles for exploring the scenic surroundings of the roadside station and nearby trails.
Duration
120 min
Available only in dry weather conditions
Insider Tips
Plan your visit around seasonal events and check opening hours in advance for a seamless experience.
- Best Arrival Time: Visit between 9:00 AM and 10:00 AM on weekdays to access the full range of fresh produce at Nasu Royal Highland Marche before the midday rush, as the seasonal vegetables and berries are typically sold out by noon.
- Hidden Gems: At the Nasu Royal Highland Marche, look for the seasonal handmade crafts in the gallery street—on the first Saturday of each month, local artisans from the area display and sell unique handmade items, including split-weave textiles, which are highlighted during the monthly gallery street events.
- Weekend Special: On weekends, visit the Nasu Royal Highland Marche between 10:00 AM and 11:30 AM to purchase the limited-edition "Nasu Maku no Uchi Bentō" (Nasu Market Inner Box Bento), which features seasonal ingredients like fresh mountain vegetables and locally raised beef, sold only during the event season from March to November.
- Must-Visit Counter: Stop at the deli counter inside Nasu Royal Highland Marche before 1:00 PM to buy the "Nasu Fresh Milk Bread" baked daily—this soft, locally made bread is only available until 1:00 PM and is sold out by 2:00 PM on busy days.
- Best Experience Time: Attend the craft demonstration at the Craft Hall between 11:00 AM and 12:30 PM on weekends, when local artisans conduct live weaving and pottery workshops—these sessions are not scheduled during weekdays and are free to observe.
- Best Photo Spot: Head to the eastern side of the parking lot near the electric vehicle fast-charging station at 3:00 PM on clear days to capture panoramic views of the Nasu Plateau and the surrounding mountains, especially during the autumn foliage season.
- Avoid Line Rush: Skip the lunch rush at Nasutoran by visiting between 11:00 AM and 11:30 AM on weekdays, when you can order the seasonal "Nasu Mountain Vegetable Rice Bowl" before it sells out—this menu item is only available during the spring and fall months and is often sold out by 1:00 PM.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March-May): Fresh bamboo shoots available at the market from April, with the annual spring harvest of seasonal vegetables and mountain herbs.
Summer (June-August): Peak season for fresh produce at Nasu Royal Highland Marche, including summer vegetables and local berries.
Autumn (September-November): Harvest of autumn vegetables and seasonal flowers; the Gallery Street features handcrafted textiles in October and November.
Winter (December-February): Limited seasonal offerings, but winter markets and hot meals available at Nasutoran.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Offers a children's play area, stroller-friendly paths, and family activities. Features kid-friendly food options and interactive experiences like craft workshops. Safe, accessible parking and a welcoming atmosphere enhance the family appeal.
Food Lover Review
Boasts diverse dining options including local specialties like Nasu Wagyu and seasonal produce. The farmers market offers fresh, high-quality regional goods. The Nasutoran restaurant emphasizes local ingredients, delivering a rich, authentic culinary experience.
Car Camping Review
Provides clean restrooms and vending machines. Offers a quiet, scenic environment suitable for overnight stays. However, overnight parking is not explicitly permitted, limiting its suitability for extended car camping.
Scenic Beauty Review
Located at 470m elevation with lush greenery and panoramic views of the Nasu Highlands. Features excellent photo spots and seasonal beauty, especially in spring and autumn. The natural surroundings create a peaceful, aesthetically pleasing atmosphere.