Station Nikko

Discover the Heart of Tochigi’s Culinary Heritage

Nikko roadside station lies in the historic town of Imaichi, nestled at the gateway to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Nikko. More than a rest stop, it’s a vibrant cultural and culinary crossroads where local tradition meets modern innovation. From seasonal harvests to artisanal crafts, every corner celebrates the region’s rich agricultural roots and creative spirit.

Home to the famed Nikko Kaki Ice, seasonal produce like giant wild mushrooms and sweet chestnuts, and exclusive finds such as Tochigi’s first Japanese whisky, the station offers a unique taste of the area. Don’t miss the bustling Nikko Sake Festival, the autumn harvest market, or the seasonal treats like pumpkin milk gelato and red yam cheesecake. With year-round events, hands-on workshops, and a charming old-style festival hall, Nikko is a destination where every visit feels like a celebration of place and passion.

Nikko roadside station stands out for its rare collection of regional craft spirits, including Tochigi’s first Japanese whisky—available exclusively here in two limited editions, one crafted with local terroir. Equally unique is its seasonal showcase of giant wild mushrooms, such as oversized shiitake harvested from nearby forests, found nowhere else in the region. These offerings, paired with signature seasonal treats like pumpkin milk gelato and red yam cheesecake, create an authentic taste of Tochigi’s autumn harvest.

• Best Arrival Time: Visit between 9:00–10:00 AM on weekdays to secure the largest available size of fresh wild mushrooms, as the biggest specimens often sell out by midday.

• Hidden Gems: Look for the seasonal "sweet potato shortbread" at Fujita Bake Store, available only in autumn, and ask staff to point you to the display near the entrance of the food hall.

• Weekend Special: On Saturdays and Sundays, the deli counter offers handmade fruit sandwiches featuring fresh Shinshu muscat grapes and chestnuts—these are only available during weekend hours and sell out by 2:00 PM.

• Limited Product Tip: Purchase the limited-edition "Red Sweet Potato Cheesecake" from Cheesegarden before it sells out, as it is only available seasonally and frequently sells out by 4:00 PM on weekends.

• Event Planning: If visiting on October 19, arrive early to see the "Imaichi Yatai Matsuri" parade, as traffic restrictions begin around 11:00 AM and parking near the roadside station becomes limited.

• Unique Purchase: Buy the "Japanese Whisky" from Nishibori Brewery—specifically the "Soba Edition" or "Nikko Edition"—as these are the only locations in Tochigi Prefecture to carry this limited release, and only a small number are available per week.

• Seasonal Food Tip: Visit the agricultural direct sales counter between 10:00 AM and 12:00 PM to buy the season’s first harvest of new rice, particularly the "Yudai 21" variety, which is only stocked in 3kg–5kg packs and often sells out by early afternoon.

Spring (March-May): Fresh bamboo shoots available at market; peak season for canola flower picking (late March–April).

Summer (June-August): Limited-time summer treats like natural ice cream and fried mochi available; seasonal events run through August.

Autumn (September-November): Harvest of new rice, chestnuts, and seasonal fruits; red maple leaves peak in November.

Winter (December-February): Special holiday events including Halloween and Christmas cake pre-orders.