Station Nichina Hinokawa no Sato

Taste the Heart of Rural Japan

Nestled in the serene countryside of Nichinan Town, Tottori Prefecture, Nichina Hinokawa no Sato is more than a roadside station—it’s a vibrant celebration of local life, sustainability, and community. Located at the crossroads of nature and tradition, this destination connects visitors with the land, its people, and the rhythms of seasonal living.

Renowned for its farm-to-table restaurant, Hottosu, where chefs craft meals from morning-harvested produce, the station highlights the region’s rich agricultural heritage. The on-site market offers fresh rice, seasonal vegetables, handmade jams, and unique snacks like the famous matured tomato juice and tomato soft serve. Events like the annual Icho Festival, magic shows, and live music bring the community to life, while nearby attractions—from the enchanting firefly sanctuary at Fukumai Hotorinokuni to the historic Matsumoto Seicho Literary Monument—offer unforgettable experiences. Every visit supports environmental stewardship, making Nichina Hinokawa no Sato a place where enjoyment and responsibility go hand in hand.

Visit Nichina Hinokawa no Sato for its one-of-a-kind tomato experience: home to the region’s only tomato-themed shop, where you can savor freshly made tomato soft cream made from fully ripened local tomatoes and enjoy a rare 30-minute all-you-can-eat mini tomato harvest at nearby Tsubura Farm. The roadside station also features a restaurant using vegetables harvested early that same morning, showcasing the pure taste of sun-ripened produce from the area’s clean, mountain-fed water.

• Best Arrival Time: Visit between 9:00 AM and 10:00 AM on weekdays to secure the day’s first batch of fresh-baked milk bread from the bakery, which sells out by 11:00 AM and is not restocked.

• Hidden Gems: Head to the deli counter at the agricultural product sales shop between 10:30 AM and 11:30 AM to find the limited daily batch of handmade vegetable pickles made with locally grown produce from the surrounding farms—these are only available on weekdays.

• Weekend Special: On Sundays, arrive by 11:00 AM to experience the weekly magic show held at the main plaza, which begins promptly at 11:30 AM and draws large crowds—arriving early ensures a good seat.

• Unique Product Tip: Purchase the rare "Nishina Perfectly Ripe Tomato Juice" at the Marugoto Tomato Shop before 2:00 PM, as it is only available in limited quantities each day and is often sold out by early afternoon.

• Seasonal Experience: Visit the roadside station between November 8 and November 16 to witness the stunning golden maple leaves at the Nishinogawa Ichou Gorge, where the illuminated trees create a breathtaking walkway—best viewed during late afternoon light.

• Local Food Hack: Order the "Nishinogawa Fresh Vegetable Bowl" at the restaurant Hottosu between 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM, as this lunch special features the day’s freshest produce directly from the morning harvest, unavailable after 1:30 PM.

• Event Planning: Check the official website or Instagram page the day before your visit to confirm the schedule for the Prince Live event, which takes place on November 12 and 13—arrive by 2:00 PM to get a front-row spot at the stage performance.

Spring (March-May): Late March to April brings canola flower viewing, while fresh bamboo shoots appear in early spring at the market.

Summer (June-August): Enjoy 30-minute free mini tomato tasting at Tsubura Farm from July to August.

Autumn (September-November): Visit during the Japanese maple festival (early November) and experience autumn harvest activities.

Winter (December-February): Limited seasonal offerings; focus on local crafts and indoor dining at the restaurant.