Discover Natural Renewal and Local Charm at Yunishikawa Roadside Station
Nestled at the gateway to Nikko’s famed Yunishikawa Onsen, this roadside station is a gateway to rejuvenation and authentic regional experiences. Located just steps from the Yonki Railway Yunishikawa Onsen Station, it offers travelers a seamless blend of relaxation and exploration. The station’s highlight is its natural hot spring foot bath, renowned for its skin-friendly minerals and scenic mountain views—perfect for unwinding after a day of sightseeing.
Beyond wellness, Yunishikikawa serves as a vibrant cultural hub. Enjoy meals made with fresh local ingredients at the on-site dining area, browse unique souvenirs crafted by regional artisans, or embark on a scenic water-land bus cruise across the serene dam lake. With its inviting atmosphere and deep connection to the surrounding nature and community, this roadside station is more than a stop—it’s an essential part of any journey through Nikko’s scenic heart.
Why Visit
Visit Yunishigawa roadside station to experience the only water-land amphibious bus tour on the region’s serene dam lake, a unique adventure accessible nowhere else. Sip on the station’s signature “Hakusui” milk ice cream, crafted from rich Jersey cow milk sourced directly from local farms, a treat certified for its smooth, delicate flavor. At the foot of the mountains, soak in the naturally mineral-rich hot spring foot baths, renowned for their skin-benefiting properties and tranquil setting.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor authentic local flavors at Yunishikawa roadside station, where fresh regional ingredients shine in every dish.
Yunishigawa Hot Spring Restaurant
湯西川温泉レストラン
Specialty
Traditional Japanese cuisine using local ingredients
A cozy restaurant offering authentic Japanese meals made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, perfect for enjoying a relaxing meal after a day of sightseeing.
River View Cafe
河川展望カフェ
Specialty
Light meals and beverages with scenic views
A charming café located near the riverbank, offering light snacks, drinks, and a peaceful atmosphere with views of the surrounding nature.
Local Food Stall
地元フードスタンド
Specialty
Quick street-style snacks made with regional ingredients
A casual food stall offering fast, delicious snacks made with ingredients from the surrounding area. Ideal for a quick bite while exploring the station.
Shopping Highlights
Discover unique local treasures and handmade crafts at Yunishikawa roadside station’s inviting shop.
Local Farmers Market
地元農産物市場
A market featuring fresh produce, fruits, and vegetables grown in the surrounding region.
Products
Must-Try Item
Organic Mountain Greens
Yunishigawa Bakery
湯西川ベーカリー
A small bakery specializing in handmade breads and pastries using local flour and ingredients.
Products
Must-Try Item
Honey Wheat Bread
Craft & Souvenir Shop
工芸品・お土産店
A shop offering handmade crafts, traditional souvenirs, and locally made gifts.
Products
Must-Try Item
River Stone Jewelry
Alcohol & Specialty Store
酒類・特産品店
A store specializing in local alcoholic beverages and regional specialty products.
Products
Must-Try Item
Yunishigawa Mountain Sake
Featured Products
Explore signature specialties like natural hot spring-infused treats and seasonal farm goods from the region.
Yunishigawa Hot Spring Mineral Water
湯西川温泉ミネラルウォーター
Natural mineral water sourced from the local hot spring area, known for its skin-friendly properties.
Mountain Herb Tea Blend
山草ハーブティー
A unique blend of wild herbs collected from the surrounding mountains, perfect for relaxation.
River Stone Artwork
河川石アート
Handcrafted decorative stones collected from the riverbed, polished and designed as unique home décor.
Local Pickled Vegetables
地元漬物
Authentic pickled vegetables made using traditional methods and local ingredients.
Facilities & Amenities
Enjoy convenient amenities including restrooms, parking, and relaxing foot baths at Yunishikawa roadside station.
Parking
The parking area is available 24 hours a day.
Adjacent to the roadside station
Restroom
Public toilets are available 24 hours a day.
Adjacent to the roadside station
Information Center
The roadside station serves as a tourist information hub for the Yunishigawa area, offering guidance on local attractions, events, and transportation.
Main facility
Hot Spring
Natural day-use hot spring baths are available. The facility has been certified for skin beauty benefits.
On-site
Play Area
A play area is available for children, located within the roadside station premises.
On-site
EV Charging Station
Electric vehicle charging facilities are available at the roadside station.
Adjacent to the parking area
ATM
An ATM is available for visitors' convenience.
Near the public phone area
Nursing Room
A private nursing room is available for mothers with infants.
Inside the facility
Bike Rental
Bicycles can be rented for exploring the surrounding area.
Near the entrance
Pet Area
A designated area for pets is available for visitors to walk their animals.
Near the parking area
Activities & Experiences
Immerse yourself in hands-on workshops and seasonal events, from lake cruises to cultural experiences.
Hot Spring Bath
天然温泉
Soak in natural hot springs for a relaxing and rejuvenating experience.
Duration
60 min
Foot Bath
足湯
Relax your feet in a warm foot bath surrounded by nature.
Duration
30 min
May be temporarily closed during cold weather or maintenance.
Dammed Lake Cruise by Amphibious Bus
水陸両用バスによるダム湖クルージング
Enjoy a scenic cruise on the dam lake using a unique amphibious bus that travels on both land and water.
Duration
45 min
Weather-dependent; may be canceled due to rain or poor visibility.
Local Craft Exhibition
地元民芸品
Explore and learn about traditional local crafts and handmade items from the region.
Duration
60 min
Local Ingredient Cooking Demonstration
地元食材を生かしたお食事
Participate in a hands-on cooking session using locally sourced ingredients to create traditional dishes.
Duration
90 min
Roadside Station Stamp Rally
道の駅スタンプ押印時間
Collect stamps at the roadside station as part of a fun and interactive journey through local attractions.
Duration
30 min
Insider Tips
Plan ahead with local insights on best visiting times and hidden gems near Yunishikawa roadside station.
- Best Arrival Time: Visit between 9:00 and 9:30 AM on weekdays to access the foot bath before it closes for maintenance at 10:00 AM, as the facility reopens at 10:30 AM and is often crowded after that time
- Hidden Gems: Check the deli counter near the entrance for the daily limited batch of local mountain vegetable dumplings, which are only available from 10:00 AM to 11:30 AM and sell out quickly
- Weekend Special: On Saturdays and Sundays, ride the water-land bus departing from the roadside station’s south parking area at 11:00 AM to experience the dam lake cruise with live commentary on local ecology
- Best Food Purchase: Buy the "Yunishigawa Special Curry Rice Set" at the food court between 11:30 AM and 1:00 PM, as it includes a free portion of locally grown mountain potato salad not available at other times
- Unique Souvenir: Purchase the "Hot Spring Mineral Soap" at the shop counter next to the ticket booth, where it is restocked every morning at 8:00 AM and often sells out by noon
- Access Tip: If arriving by train, exit at the Yonagi Railway Yunishigawa Onsen Station and walk 2 minutes straight ahead—this route bypasses the main road and leads directly to the roadside station’s front entrance
- Event Timing: Visit the roadside station on the first Saturday of each month to participate in the "Local Craft Market" held in the covered plaza area from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM, featuring handmade pottery and woven baskets from nearby villages
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March-May): Canola flowers bloom in late March to April, and fresh bamboo shoots are available at the market.
Summer (June-August): Water陆两用 bus cruises operate on the dam lake, and the foot bath is open for summer use.
Autumn (September-November): The area offers scenic views of fall foliage, and local crafts are featured in seasonal events.
Winter (December-February): The hot spring bath remains open, with cozy visits enhanced by winter scenery.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Offers a foot bath and scenic views ideal for families. While no dedicated play area is mentioned, the foot bath and natural surroundings provide child-friendly relaxation. Accessible parking and stroller-friendly paths enhance usability. Educational value comes from local nature and cultural offerings.
Food Lover Review
Features multiple dining options using local ingredients, including seasonal specialties. The on-site food stalls and market offer fresh, regional products. Quality and variety are strong, with a focus on authentic local flavors and artisanal food experiences.
Car Camping Review
Provides restrooms and vending machines for basic needs. The site is quiet with scenic surroundings suitable for overnight stays. However, no explicit overnight parking policy is listed, limiting clarity for extended stays.
Scenic Beauty Review
Surrounded by natural landscapes with views of the dam lake and forested areas. Offers excellent photo opportunities at the scenic viewpoint and watercraft dock. Seasonal beauty is enhanced by changing foliage and clear water reflections.