Discover the Heart of Rural Japan at Takanesawa Genki Upp Mura
Nestled in the serene hills of Takanesawa Town, Takanesawa Genki Upp Mura is a vibrant roadside station where nature, culture, and community come together. Surrounded by lush forests and rolling farmland, this destination offers a peaceful retreat with ever-changing seasonal beauty—from cherry blossoms in spring to golden rice fields in autumn.
More than just a rest stop, it’s a full-day experience featuring a natural hot spring bath, a cozy on-site inn, a farm-to-table restaurant, and a bustling farmers’ market showcasing fresh local produce. With open grassy areas hosting seasonal events and a newly opened trailer mini-restaurant, there’s something for every traveler. Whether you're seeking relaxation, adventure, or authentic local flavors, Takanesawa Genki Upp Mura invites you to slow down and savor the rhythm of rural life.
Why Visit
Takanesawa Genki Upp Mura stands out as the only roadside station in the region offering access to a naturally heated onsen where visitors can soak in mineral-rich waters while gazing at the surrounding autumn maple forests. Its standout feature is the exclusive seasonal "Hokkaido-style milk ice cream," made daily from fresh Jersey cow milk sourced from local farms. With a rotating lineup of pop-up food trucks like the newly opened Trailer Mini Restaurant, it delivers a uniquely dynamic dining experience you won’t find elsewhere.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor fresh, locally sourced meals at Takanesawa Genki Upp Mura roadside station.
Trailer Mini Restaurant
トレーラーミニレストラン
Specialty
Mobile food service offering seasonal and local ingredients
A mobile food stall that opens seasonally, serving fresh, locally sourced ingredients in a casual, convenient setting. Perfect for quick meals while exploring the roadside station.
Cottage Restaurant
じょうもんコテージ
Specialty
Traditional Japanese home-style cooking with seasonal ingredients
A cozy, homestyle restaurant offering authentic Japanese cuisine made with fresh, seasonal ingredients. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, ideal for families and travelers seeking comfort food.
Shopping Highlights
Discover unique local goods and seasonal treats at the roadside station's vibrant market.
Farmers Market
直売所
A fresh produce market offering seasonal vegetables and fruits directly from local farms in Takanesawa Town.
Products
Must-Try Item
Fresh seasonal vegetables
Bakery
パン屋
A local bakery specializing in handmade breads and pastries using traditional methods and fresh ingredients.
Products
Must-Try Item
Artisan sourdough bread
Craft Shop
工芸品店
A shop featuring handmade crafts and local artisan products made by regional artists and makers.
Products
Must-Try Item
Handcrafted pottery
Meat Shop
肉屋
A specialty meat shop offering high-quality, locally raised meats including beef and pork.
Products
Must-Try Item
Local beef
Dairy Shop
乳製品店
A shop specializing in fresh dairy products made from local milk, including cheese and yogurt.
Products
Must-Try Item
Local cheese
Souvenir Shop
お土産屋
A shop offering a variety of local souvenirs and gifts, perfect for visitors to take home memories of their visit.
Products
Must-Try Item
Seasonal gift boxes
Alcohol Shop
酒屋
A specialty shop offering local alcoholic beverages, including sake and regional craft drinks.
Products
Must-Try Item
Local sake
Featured Products
Explore signature regional specialties and farm-fresh produce crafted with care.
Local Sake
地元の日本酒
Premium sake crafted using traditional methods and local rice, known for its clean, balanced flavor.
Artisan Sourdough Bread
職人パン
Handmade sourdough bread using natural fermentation and locally milled flour, with a crisp crust and soft interior.
Local Cheese
地元チーズ
Freshly made cheese from local milk, featuring a creamy texture and subtle regional flavor.
Handcrafted Pottery
手作り陶器
Unique ceramic pieces made by local artisans, each one individually crafted with traditional techniques.
Seasonal Gift Box
季節限定ギフトボックス
A curated box of seasonal local products, perfect as a gift or a memento of the region.
Fresh Seasonal Vegetables
新鮮な季節野菜
Locally grown vegetables harvested at peak freshness, offering the best taste and nutrition.
Facilities & Amenities
Enjoy convenient amenities including restrooms, picnic areas, and a relaxing hot spring.
Parking
Ample parking space available for visitors.
On the premises of the roadside station
Restroom
Clean and accessible restrooms for visitors.
Throughout the facility
Free Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi access available for guests and visitors.
Throughout the facility
Information Center
Visitor information center providing local guides, maps, and event details.
Main entrance area
Kids' Play Area
A dedicated play area for children, recently opened for family enjoyment.
Near the grassy area
Natural Hot Spring
An onsen (hot spring) facility using natural hot spring water, located within the roadside station complex.
Inside the facility
Bike Rental
Bicycle rental service available for exploring the surrounding area.
Near the entrance
Nursing Room
Private nursing room for mothers with infants, equipped with necessary facilities.
Near the restroom area
EV Charging Station
Electric vehicle charging station available for visitors.
Parking area
ATM
ATM machine available for cash withdrawal.
Near the entrance
Pet Area
Designated area for pets, allowing visitors to bring their animals safely.
Near the grassy area
Insider Tips
Plan your visit around special events and off-peak hours for the best experience.
- Best Arrival Time: Arrive by 9:30 AM on weekends to secure a spot at the bakery counter before the fresh-baked milk bread sells out—typically by 11:00 AM.
- Hidden Gems: Visit the deli counter near the entrance to pick up the seasonal "Takanesawa Harvest Salad" made with locally grown vegetables and a house-made dressing—available only from September to November.
- Weekend Special: On Saturdays and Sundays, visit the Tractor Mini Restaurant (open 10:00 AM–4:00 PM) for the limited-time "Farmers’ Breakfast Box" featuring local eggs, honey, and sourdough toast.
- Best Time for Kids: Take advantage of the newly opened Kids Space, open daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, which offers hands-on farm activities like seed planting and animal feeding—ideal for families visiting between 10:30 AM and 2:00 PM.
- Natural Hot Spring Access: To avoid long waits, visit the natural hot spring bath (open 11:00 AM–8:00 PM) before 12:00 PM on weekdays—weekend mornings are busiest due to group bookings.
- Farmers’ Market Timing: The roadside station’s farmers’ market runs every Saturday from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM; arrive by 9:15 AM to purchase the day’s first batch of organic strawberries, which sell out by 10:30 AM.
- Event Planning: Check the event calendar on the official website before visiting, as the grassy field hosts seasonal events like the "Autumn Harvest Festival" and "Spring Seed Planting Day"—these are announced at least one week in advance and require pre-registration for participation.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March–May): Canola flowers bloom in late March to April, and fresh bamboo shoots are available at the market through early May.
Summer (June–August): Fresh strawberries are harvested from June to July, and the outdoor events area hosts seasonal activities.
Autumn (September–November): Autumn foliage peaks in early to mid-November, and the trailside market features seasonal harvests.
Winter (December–February): The hot spring and indoor facilities remain open, offering comfort during the colder months.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
A dedicated kids' space, seasonal events, and stroller-friendly paths enhance family appeal. Play areas and child-friendly food options are available, with safe, accessible facilities and interactive nature experiences.
Food Lover Review
Features diverse dining with local specialties, fresh produce from a farmers market, and artisanal products. The mini trailer restaurant adds unique culinary variety and enhances the overall food experience.
Car Camping Review
Offers restrooms, vending machines, and quiet zones suitable for overnight stays. While no explicit overnight parking policy is stated, the spacious layout and peaceful environment support car camping comfort.
Scenic Beauty Review
Surrounded by natural scenery with seasonal beauty and varied landscapes. Scenic viewpoints and photo opportunities abound, especially in the grassy areas and near the natural surroundings.