Station Wajiki

Discover the Natural and Cultural Heart of Awa

Wajiki, nestled at the foot of Mount Kengyō National Park and serving as the gateway to the Nage River region, is a roadside station where nature, tradition, and community converge. Surrounded by lush forests and the dramatic curves of the Nage River—known locally as the "Wajiki Line"—this vibrant hub offers breathtaking views of towering rock formations and rushing waters, making it a premier destination for canoeing and river fishing.

More than a rest stop, Wajiki is a cultural and culinary experience. Its revitalized facility features the Nigiku-no-Kan, a local product center showcasing regional crafts and specialties, and a dedicated café serving freshly hand-pulled udon, cooked to order in a traditional pot. With amenities ranging from cycling and kayaking trails to camping and hot springs, Wajiki invites travelers to slow down, reconnect, and savor the authentic spirit of Tokushima.

Located at the gateway to Naga Valley in the Kanzan National Park, Wajiki is the only roadside station where you can experience authentic, hand-crafted udon made fresh daily in a traditional kama-boiled style. The station’s signature dish, served only between 11 AM and 2 PM, is the region’s only hand-pulled udon cooked in a wood-fired kettle, using water drawn from the nearby Nagawa River. Just steps away, the dramatic “Wajiki Line” stretch of the river—where steep rock formations and powerful rapids create a breathtaking spectacle—is accessible only from this location, making it a premier spot for kayaking and river viewing.

• Best Arrival Time: Visit between 11:00 AM and 12:30 PM on weekdays to secure a seat at the hand-pulled udon counter, as the restaurant opens at 11:00 AM and often fills up by noon during peak seasons
• Hidden Gems: Check the “Nigiku no Yakata” shop during its open hours for locally made pickled vegetables and regional honey, which are only available at this roadside station and not sold elsewhere in the area
• Weekend Special: On Saturdays and Sundays, visit the picnic area near the riverbank by 10:30 AM to claim a shaded spot with a view of the Naka River’s rapids, as these spots are frequently reserved by local families by noon
• Must-Try Food: Order the steamed rice ball with local seaweed at the “Maruo” café, available only from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM and sold in limited quantities—typically sold out by 1:30 PM
• Best Photo Spot: Head to the riverbank viewing platform just past the “Nigiku no Yakata” shop after 3:00 PM on weekdays to catch the golden light reflecting off the Naka River, especially during autumn when the trees turn vivid red
• Practical Tip: Use the free baby milk warming station located inside the restroom near the “Nigiku no Yakata” shop—this service is only available during the roadside station’s operating hours and is not accessible outside of 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
• Off-the-Beaten-Path Access: Take the path behind the parking area to the “Icicle Kannon” viewing spot—it’s a 10-minute walk from the main building and offers a clear view of the limestone rock formation resembling a seated Buddha, best visited early in the morning before crowds arrive

Spring (March-May): Fresh bamboo shoots available at the market in early spring; peak season for hiking along the 鷲敷ライン trail.

Summer (June-August): Ideal for canoeing on the那賀川; cooling waters and shaded paths attract visitors.

Autumn (September-November): Best time for viewing the 鷲敷ライン's autumn foliage; crisp air enhances scenic views.

Winter (December-February): Visit the 氷柱観音 for unique rock formations; peaceful, quiet atmosphere with minimal crowds.