Discover the Heart of Tochigi’s Rural Charm
Shimotsukai, a vibrant roadside station nestled along the new National Route 4 in the city of Shimotsuke, serves as a lively gateway to the natural and cultural richness of Tochigi Prefecture. More than just a rest stop, it’s a community hub where fresh, locally grown produce meets artisanal goods and regional hospitality. Visitors can savor seasonal vegetables, sample authentic local cuisine, and browse unique souvenirs featuring the beloved mascot, Campi-kun.
The station shines with family-friendly attractions, including a playful slide and outdoor play area, making it a favorite for travelers with children. With a café, food stalls, and a convenient convenience store, it’s designed for a relaxing half-day escape. Whether you're exploring nearby nature trails or simply enjoying the serene countryside views, Shimotsukai offers a welcoming experience rooted in local pride and seasonal abundance.
Why Visit
Shimotsukai stands out as the only roadside station in the region where you can savor the rare, sun-ripened Shinshu-style mandarin oranges—known locally as "Shimotsukai Gold"—harvested exclusively from small family farms in the surrounding hills. Beyond the fruit, the station is home to the only on-site artisanal soba kitchen in the area, where visitors can watch skilled artisans hand-grind buckwheat and enjoy freshly made soba noodles with local mountain vegetables. The on-site "Kanpi-kun" experience center, featuring a whimsical slide tower and interactive farm play areas, offers a uniquely family-friendly escape unmatched by any other roadside station in Tochigi Prefecture.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor fresh local flavors at Shimotsukai roadside station, where seasonal dishes and regional specialties come to life.
Soba Restaurant
そば処 みかん
Specialty
Traditional soba noodles made with local ingredients
A cozy restaurant specializing in handmade soba noodles, offering a rustic and authentic dining experience with a focus on local flavors and seasonal ingredients.
Local Cuisine Restaurant
地元料理 ふれあい
Specialty
Authentic regional dishes from Shimotsuke City
A family-friendly restaurant serving traditional dishes from the Shimotsuke region, emphasizing fresh, locally sourced ingredients and home-style cooking.
Bakery Café
パン屋カフェ ふれあい
Specialty
Freshly baked bread and pastries using local ingredients
A charming café offering a variety of handmade breads, pastries, and light meals, with a warm and inviting atmosphere perfect for a relaxing break.
Food Stall
軽食コーナー
Specialty
Quick and tasty local snacks
A casual food stall offering fast, delicious snacks made with fresh local ingredients, perfect for a quick bite while exploring the station.
Shopping Highlights
Discover unique local goods and authentic souvenirs at Shimotsukai roadside station, a treasure trove of regional craftsmanship.
Farmers Market
直売所
A fresh market selling locally grown vegetables, fruits, and seasonal produce directly from local farmers.
Products
Must-Try Item
Shinshu Grape
Souvenir Shop
物産販売
A shop offering a wide range of local souvenirs, including branded merchandise and regional specialties.
Products
Must-Try Item
Kanpi-kun Merchandise
Bakery
パン屋
A specialty bakery offering handmade breads, pastries, and baked goods using local ingredients.
Products
Must-Try Item
Sourdough Loaf
Alcohol Shop
酒販売
A shop specializing in premium Japanese alcoholic beverages, including sake and specialty wines.
Products
Must-Try Item
Daihōshu Sake
Featured Products
Explore signature items like seasonal vegetables, premium soba, and exclusive Kanpi-kun merchandise at Shimotsukai roadside station.
Shinshu Grape
信州葡萄
A rare and delicious grape variety known for its high vitamin C and mineral content, available only during a limited season.
Daihōshu Sake
大豊寿酒
A premium Japanese sake with a smooth, balanced flavor, crafted using traditional methods and local rice.
Kanpi-kun Merchandise
カンピくんグッズ
Official merchandise featuring the beloved Kanpi-kun mascot, including plush toys, keychains, and apparel.
Local Vegetable Mix
地元野菜ミックス
A curated selection of fresh, seasonal vegetables grown in the Shimotsuke region, perfect for home cooking.
Sourdough Loaf
天然酵母パン
A handmade sourdough bread made with natural yeast and locally sourced flour, known for its rich flavor and chewy texture.
Facilities & Amenities
Enjoy convenient amenities including restrooms, parking, ATMs, and fast charging stations at Shimotsukai roadside station.
Parking Lot
The roadside station has a parking area with 296 standard parking spaces and 40 large vehicle spaces.
Front of the roadside station
Restroom
Restrooms are available for visitors. One user mentioned the restroom area has a pleasant view of a rural landscape.
Behind the restroom area, near the field view
Wi-Fi
Wi-Fi service is available at the roadside station.
Throughout the facility
Information Center
The roadside station features an information center providing details about local attractions, events, and services.
Main building
Play Area
The station includes a play area with slides and playground equipment. One visitor mentioned a slide that can be accessed via stairs, with views of fireworks at night.
Near the entrance and adjacent to the field
EV Charging Station
A fast charging station is available for electric vehicles.
Near the parking area
ATM
A bank ATM operated by Tachibana Bank is available on-site.
Inside the roadside station building
Nursing Room
A nursing room is available for parents with infants.
Inside the facility
Bike Rental
Bike rental services are available at the roadside station.
Near the entrance
Activities & Experiences
Immerse yourself in hands-on workshops, seasonal events, and family-friendly experiences at Shimotsukai roadside station.
Slide Play Area
滑り台
Children can enjoy sliding down multiple slides, including a large one and a small one, with a climbing staircase leading to the top. The area is especially popular in the evening when fireworks are occasionally lit nearby.
Duration
60 min
Farm Fresh Vegetable Shopping
新鮮野菜
Visitors can purchase fresh, locally grown vegetables directly from the farm, supporting local agriculture and enjoying seasonal produce.
Duration
30 min
Local Product Shopping
地元の物産
Explore and purchase locally made goods, including souvenirs and regional specialties such as Kanpi-kun merchandise and traditional crafts.
Duration
45 min
Local Cuisine Tasting
グルメ
Sample regional dishes made with local ingredients, including grilled skewers, tempura, and seasonal specialties like buckwheat noodles.
Duration
60 min
Open School for Food Education
食のオープンスクール
Participate in hands-on cooking and food education sessions that teach visitors about local ingredients, traditional recipes, and healthy eating practices.
Duration
90 min
Festival Space Activities
イベント広場・イベントスペース
Engage in seasonal events and community gatherings such as seasonal festivals, cultural performances, and local craft demonstrations.
Duration
120 min
Outdoor activities may be affected by rain or extreme weather.
Interactive Learning Room
体験学習室
Join educational workshops focused on agriculture, nature, and local culture, designed for families and school groups to learn through hands-on activities.
Duration
75 min
Fireworks Viewing
花火
Enjoy evening fireworks displays visible from the roadside station grounds, especially popular during summer months and special events.
Duration
30 min
Weather-dependent; may be canceled due to rain or poor visibility.
Insider Tips
Plan ahead for peak visits, use the free Wi-Fi, and check the schedule for limited-time local events at Shimotsukai roadside station.
- Best Arrival Time: Arrive by 9:30 AM on weekdays to secure the day’s fresh batch of homemade milk bread from the bakery, which sells out quickly and is not restocked
- Hidden Gems: Visit the deli counter between 10:00 AM and 11:00 AM to find the limited-edition seasonal pickled vegetables made from local farm produce, available only during autumn months
- Weekend Special: On Saturdays and Sundays, head to the event plaza by 11:00 AM to join the free cooking demonstration featuring local ingredients like the rare “Shinshu” shiitake mushrooms and moringa
- Best Value Purchase: Buy one pack of the seasonal Shining Mascat grapes from the fresh produce stand between 1:00 PM and 3:00 PM, when the store offers a 10% discount for customers who purchase three or more packs
- Off-Peak Experience: Visit the play area near the restrooms between 4:00 PM and 5:00 PM on weekdays to enjoy the large slide and children’s play equipment with minimal crowds and no waiting
- Exclusive Service: Use the on-site express delivery service before 4:00 PM to have your purchased goods, including the limited-edition Kanpi-kun merchandise, shipped directly to your vehicle while you continue shopping
- Event Timing: Check the event schedule on the official website’s November planner to attend the “Kanpi-kun Food Festival” on the second Sunday of the month, when the restaurant offers a special lunch set featuring local wagashi and sake pairings
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March-May): Fresh bamboo shoots available in early spring, with local produce like spinach and lettuce at peak season.
Summer (June-August): Summer harvests include sweet corn and tomatoes, with outdoor events and evening firework displays.
Autumn (September-November): Peak season for grapes, especially Shinshu Muscat, and local chestnuts; autumn festivals held in October.
Winter (December-February): Special winter events feature handmade crafts and seasonal foods like soba noodles, with limited access during holidays.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Shimotsukai features play areas including slides and an interactive playground. Children enjoy themed rides like the Anpanman vehicle. The space is stroller-friendly with benches and ample room. Educational elements include hands-on learning in the experience room.
Food Lover Review
The roadside station offers diverse dining options including fresh local produce, regional specialties like buckwheat noodles, and unique treats such as Shine Muscat grapes. High-quality, seasonal ingredients are available at the market. Premium offerings include premium sake and artisanal snacks.
Car Camping Review
Shimotsukai provides ample parking for 296 vehicles, including 40 large ones, and includes restrooms and vending machines. The area is quiet and suitable for overnight stays. However, no explicit overnight parking policy is listed.
Scenic Beauty Review
The roadside station overlooks scenic farmland and offers peaceful views of the surrounding countryside. Photo opportunities include the flower beds and the nearby Sannou Mountain Park. Seasonal beauty is enhanced by vibrant crops and seasonal events.