Station Negoro Historic Hill

Step into 900 Years of History and Heritage

Negoro Historic Hill, nestled in the northern gateway of Wakayama Prefecture, is more than a roadside station—it’s a living portal to Japan’s past. Located just minutes from the sacred New Shingi Shingon Sect head temple, Negoro-dera, this cultural hub seamlessly blends history, nature, and local craftsmanship. Visitors can explore the immersive Negoro Historical Archives, which vividly contrasts the temple’s ancient grandeur with its present-day serenity through exhibits and multimedia presentations.

The station itself offers a curated experience: sample authentic Wakayama specialties like mochi desserts and traditional rice crackers at Roota Mountain House, shop for regional crafts including Negoro lacquerware, and gather travel insights from the comprehensive information corner. With nearby access to the historic former Wakayama Prefectural Assembly Hall and scenic hiking trails, Negoro Historic Hill is a must-visit for travelers seeking authentic cultural depth and natural beauty in the heart of Kansai.

Visit Negoro Historic Hill to experience the only roadside station in Japan that seamlessly integrates a multimedia history museum with the nation’s oldest surviving wooden legislative building. Here, you can explore the reconstructed 19th-century Wakayama Prefectural Assembly Hall—Japan’s oldest wooden legislative building—while sampling rare local treats like mochi-based sweets made with Iwade’s mountain-grown rice and seasonal fruits. The station’s exclusive “Negoro Lacquerware” and authentic regional souvenirs are available nowhere else, making it a must-visit for travelers seeking authentic cultural immersion.

• Best Arrival Time: Visit the neogoro historical hill between 9:00–9:30 AM on weekdays to enter the neogoro historical museum before the 10:00 AM opening, as it often fills quickly after opening time.

• Hidden Gems: At the flower smile hall shop, look for the limited-edition "Negoro Lacquerware" set sold only during the spring and autumn festivals—these are not available year-round.

• Weekend Special: On weekends, visit the kongora mountain inn café between 10:00 AM and 11:00 AM to try the freshly made mochi rice dessert made with locally grown Wakayama sweet rice, which sells out by 11:30 AM.

• Information Tip: Visit the information corner between 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM to collect the full set of Wakayama prefecture’s city and town brochures, which are updated monthly and include exclusive event listings not available online.

• Sticker Hunt: Use the 24-hour stamp station at the information corner to collect the official "Neogoro Historical Hill" stamp, then immediately head to the kongora mountain inn café to redeem it for a free local sweet snack (available only during the day).

• Photography Tip: At the neogoro historical museum, visit the digital exhibit area between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM to see the full 3D reconstruction of the historical Negoro Temple during its peak period, which is displayed only during this time slot.

• Accessibility Advantage: Use the accessible parking spot designated for people with disabilities (located near the main entrance) and access the wheelchair-accessible toilet at the information corner, which is equipped with a baby changing table and is open 24 hours.

Spring (March–May): Cherry blossoms at Negoro Temple peak in early April, with fresh bamboo shoots available at the roadside station market.

Summer (June–August): Cool forest hikes in Negoro Mountain Forest Park and evening visits to the historic Negoro Temple.

Autumn (September–November): Vibrant autumn foliage at Negoro Temple and nearby Green Flower Center, with seasonal fruit harvests.

Winter (December–February): Quiet visits to the historic Negoro Temple and warm local treats at Kogenzancho café.