Station Oku-Daisen

Discover the Heart of Nature and Local Craftsmanship at Oku-Daisen

Tucked into the serene embrace of northern Tohoku, Oku-Daisen roadside station stands as a gateway to the region’s untouched beauty and rich rural heritage. Nestled along a scenic mountain pass, it offers travelers a rare blend of tranquility and authentic local experience. Surrounded by lush forests and sweeping alpine vistas, the station is more than a pit stop—it’s a cultural crossroads where nature, tradition, and community come together.

Visitors are drawn to its handcrafted local goods, seasonal farm-to-table produce, and signature mountain-infused specialties. Highlights include freshly made dairy products, artisanal sake brewed from local spring water, and seasonal vegetables grown in the high-altitude fields. With a cozy café, interactive workshops, and panoramic viewing platforms, Oku-Daisen invites travelers to slow down, savor the moment, and connect with the spirit of the land.

Oku-Daisen roadside station is home to the region’s only on-site dairy farm where visitors can taste fresh Jersey cow milk ice cream made daily with cream from the same herd. The station also features a unique forest bathing trail leading to a hidden waterfall, accessible only through its grounds—offering a rare, secluded natural experience. With its focus on sustainable dairy practices and immersive nature access, Oku-Daisen delivers a one-of-a-kind destination in the Daisen mountain region.

• Best Arrival Time: Visit between 9:30 AM and 10:30 AM on weekends to catch the fresh batch of milk bread from the on-site bakery, which is only available during this window and sells out quickly
• Hidden Gems: Stop by the deli counter near the entrance to sample the seasonal wild mountain vegetable salad, made daily with ingredients foraged from the Oku-Daisen region
• Weekend Special: On Saturdays and Sundays, the local farmers’ market opens at 10:00 AM and features limited-edition smoked trout from nearby Lake Tazawa, available only while supplies last
• Must-Try Product: Try the Oku-Daisen-style ramen at the food stall near the restrooms—this regional version uses a miso-based broth and includes locally grown mountain greens
• Best Photo Spot: Position yourself at the viewing platform just east of the main parking area at 3:00 PM on weekdays to capture the golden light reflecting off the forest canopy during the late afternoon sun
• Seasonal Access: During the autumn maple season, the hiking trail entrance near the souvenir shop opens at 8:00 AM and allows early access to the best leaf-viewing spots before crowds arrive
• Local Insider Tip: Ask the staff at the information desk for the free map of the “Hidden Forest Path,” a lesser-known trail that leads to a secluded waterfall and is only marked on the official station map during peak season

Spring (March–May): Canola flowers bloom in late March to April, and fresh bamboo shoots are available at the market.

Summer (June–August): Fresh mountain vegetables and cooling summer fruits are harvested and sold.

Autumn (September–November): Chestnuts and persimmons ripen, with local harvest festivals in October.

Winter (December–February): Snow-covered landscapes offer peaceful visits, and hot spring baths are most popular.