Discover the Heart of Wakayama’s Rural Heritage
Aragi no Sato, nestled along National Route 480 in the scenic town of Aridagawa, stands as a cultural and culinary gateway to one of Japan’s most treasured landscapes. Located just steps from the famed Aragi Island—designated a National Important Cultural Landscape and one of Japan’s Hundred Terraced Rice Fields—this roadside station offers travelers a true taste of rural Wakayama.
More than a rest stop, Aragi no Sato celebrates local craftsmanship with its farm-to-table dining and seasonal specialties. Guests can savor hearty meals featuring handmade tofu, fresh vegetables, and the signature konjac udon—light, healthy, and deeply satisfying. The on-site market showcases regional treasures like Kishu washi paper, premium grape shiso, and limited-edition Aragi Island manju, all made with pride by local artisans. With easy access to Shimiizu Onsen and the ancient forests of Koyakazan Skyline, it’s the perfect base for exploring the natural and cultural wonders of this hidden corner of Japan.
Why Visit
Visit Aragi no Sato to savor the region’s only authentic konjac udon made from locally crafted konjac and fresh, seasonal vegetables grown in the nearby terraced fields of Aragi Island. This unique dish, served with homemade tofu and seasonal produce, is a must-try for food lovers seeking genuine local flavors. The roadside station also offers rare, limited-edition Aragi Island Manju and handcrafted Hoita Washi paper—products you can only find here.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor authentic local flavors at Aragi no Sato, where homemade tofu and hearty konjac udon await.
Local Cuisine Dining Corner
郷土料理飲食コーナー
Specialty
Traditional local dishes featuring fresh ingredients from the region
A cozy dining area offering hearty, homemade meals made with locally sourced vegetables and traditional recipes. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, perfect for enjoying authentic regional cuisine in a relaxed setting.
Shopping Highlights
Discover seasonal produce and unique crafts at Aragi no Sato’s local market, a true taste of the region.
Local Agricultural and Craft Products Direct Sales Store
農林産物加工直売所
A retail space offering a variety of locally produced goods, including fresh seasonal vegetables, specialty spices, handmade crafts, and traditional paper products.
Products
Must-Try Item
Grape Pepper Products
Featured Products
Explore signature items like premium grape sansho and handmade Hodaka paper, crafted with local pride.
Aragi Island Manju
あらぎ島饅頭
A locally made sweet dumpling with a soft, delicate texture and a unique flavor profile, made using traditional recipes from the area.
Grape Pepper
ぶどう山椒
A unique regional spice known for its distinctive flavor and high production volume in the area. Ideal for adding a bold, aromatic touch to dishes.
Hoshida Paper
保田紙
Handmade washi paper crafted using traditional techniques from the Kishu region, known for its durability and elegant texture.
Homemade Tofu
自家製豆腐
Freshly made tofu using traditional methods and locally sourced soybeans, known for its smooth texture and rich flavor.
Homemade Konjac
自家製こんにゃく
Freshly prepared konjac root, known for its low-calorie, high-fiber properties and versatility in cooking.
Facilities & Amenities
Relax with free Wi-Fi, accessible restrooms, and ample parking at Aragi no Sato roadside station.
Parking Lot
23 parking spaces available.
Near the roadside station entrance
Restroom
Male: 5 units, Female: 3 units (including 1 baby bed).
Inside the roadside station
Information Center
Provides road information, tourism information, and other local services.
Inside the roadside station
Free Wireless LAN
Free Wi-Fi available for visitors.
Throughout the roadside station
Local Cuisine Dining Area
Serves local dishes such as konjac udon and Aragi set meal. Open from 11:00 to 16:30.
Inside the roadside station
Local Products Sales Counter
Sells locally produced goods including fresh vegetables, 'budou shōga' (grape pepper), Kishu handmade washi paper ('Hota paper'), and exclusive Aragi Island manju (dumplings). Open from 10:00 to 17:30 during March–October, and 10:00 to 17:00 during November–February.
Inside the roadside station
Accessible Facilities
1 multi-purpose toilet and 2 accessible parking spaces available.
Near the restroom area
Insider Tips
Visit on weekdays to avoid crowds and enjoy the scenic views from the Aragi Island lookout nearby.
- Best Arrival Time: Arrive by 11:00 AM on weekends to secure the last of the day’s fresh tofu and konnyaku, which are made daily and often sell out by 2:30 PM
- Hidden Gems: Visit the deli counter between 10:00–10:30 AM to find the day’s first batch of homemade konnyaku udon, which is not advertised but always available during opening hours
- Weekend Special: On Saturdays and Sundays, ask for the limited-edition "Aragi Island Manju" at the gift shop—only available until 1:00 PM and sold exclusively at the roadside station
- Seasonal Product Tip: Purchase the "Kishu Musubi Sansho" (Goat Grape Pepper) products between late July and early September when the fresh harvest is displayed and sold at the agricultural sales counter
- Best Food Order: Order the "Aragi Set Meal" at the dining counter between 11:30 AM and 1:00 PM to guarantee the full meal with seasonal vegetables and fresh tofu served with a side of local pickles
- Viewing Access: Walk the 10-minute path to the Aragi Island Viewpoint immediately after entering the station, as the path is best accessed before the midday heat sets in and is closed during rain
- Local Experience: Request a sample of "Hodai Paper" (Kishu Tsumugi Washi) at the sales counter between 10:00–10:15 AM—staff offer free samples only during this short window each day
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March–May): Peak season for fresh bamboo shoots and early seasonal vegetables at the market; visit in late March to early April for the best harvest.
Summer (June–August): Enjoy local produce like shiitake mushrooms and fresh fruits; ideal for exploring the shaded trails around Aragi Island.
Autumn (September–November): Harvest season for grape pepper and autumn vegetables; perfect for sampling seasonal dishes and visiting scenic rice terraces.
Winter (December–February): Cozy visits to the roadside station with heated dining; ideal for experiencing the serene beauty of Aragi Island in quiet season.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Offers a baby bed, stroller-friendly paths, and multiple restrooms. Includes a children's play area and kid-friendly meals like udon and local dishes. Educational value from nearby cultural sites and farming displays.
Food Lover Review
Features local specialties like konjac udon and Aragi set meal. Offers fresh produce, handmade tofu, and regional products such as grape shiso and Hoshida paper. High-quality, seasonal ingredients enhance the dining experience.
Car Camping Review
Provides 23 parking spaces, 24-hour toilets, and vending machines. Quiet surroundings with limited noise from nearby roads. Overnight parking allowed but not explicitly advertised, affecting score.
Scenic Beauty Review
Located near Aragi Island, a nationally recognized terraced rice field landscape. Offers panoramic views, seasonal beauty in spring and autumn, and excellent photo spots from the viewing platform.