Station Gassan

Discover the Heart of Yamagata’s Natural and Cultural Heritage

Nestled along the scenic National Route 112 in Tsuruoka, Gassan is a roadside station that seamlessly blends rustic charm with modern charm. Located at the gateway to the historic Rokujurigoe Kaido trail, it serves as a vibrant cultural hub where the spirit of the Echigo region lives on through heritage, nature, and community.

More than a pit stop, Gassan offers travelers a journey through time and taste. Explore the Asahi Museum Village, savor seasonal specialties like hand-pulled soba from local harvests, or hike the ancient trail that once linked distant provinces. With seasonal events, hands-on experiences like soba-making and rock climbing, and stunning views of the Bonji River Valley, every visit is a unique adventure rooted in authenticity.

Visit Gassan roadside station to experience the region’s only authentic soba experience, where freshly hand-cut ten-soba from locally grown Asahi buckwheat is served as a seasonal "New Soba Set" from November to December. Wander through the historic Rokujurigoe Kaido trail, one of Japan’s oldest mountain routes, and explore the unique cultural landscape of the Asahi Village Museum. These immersive, location-specific offerings cannot be found anywhere else.

• Best Arrival Time: Visit by 9:30 AM on weekdays to secure a seat at the Soba Dining Hall "Daibonji" before the daily batch of freshly hand-cut buckwheat noodles is sold out, as they are prepared in limited quantities each day and often sell out by 11:30 AM.

• Hidden Gems: At the Bunji no Kura Deli Counter, look for the seasonal "Katakuri Hime" wildflower jam, available only from mid-April to early May, and ask staff for the current batch—this local specialty is made from foraged mountain flowers and is not listed on the general menu.

• Weekend Special: On weekends, visit the Boulder Climbing Experience Area between 10:00 AM and 12:00 PM when staff are present to guide first-time climbers and offer free beginner safety briefings—these sessions are not advertised but happen consistently on Saturdays and Sundays.

• Exclusive Product Tip: Purchase the "New Soba Set" for takeout at the Daibonji Soba Counter during the November 1–30 seasonal event—this includes a small container of fresh buckwheat flour and a recipe card, available only during this period and not sold elsewhere.

• Event Timing: Participate in the Asahi Muramura Autumn Maple Stamp Rally (2025) by visiting Bunji no Kura and Bonji River Gorge before November 15, as the event ends at 4:00 PM on the last day, and only stamped cards from both locations qualify for the final prize draw.

• Photography Spot: For the best photo of the "Katakuri Hime" flower sculpture, visit the eastern entrance near the parking lot just after sunrise on a clear morning—this spot offers the full view of the sculpture framed by the early morning mist rising from the nearby river valley.

• Transportation Tip: If arriving by car, use the 24-hour road information terminal located at the entrance of the roadside station to check real-time updates on National Route 112 conditions—especially useful during winter months when snow accumulation can impact access to the Bunji River Gorge trailhead.

Spring (March-May): Peak season for wildflower viewing, especially katakuri blossoms in early May, and fresh bamboo shoots available at the market.

Summer (June-August): Dog-friendly outdoor activities at Asahi Dog Park (July 19–October 31) and hiking along the historic 60ri Ko Road.

Autumn (September-November): Best time for red leaf viewing with the Asahi Murai Red Leaf Stamp Rally (closes November 15) and seasonal "New Soba" meals (November 1–30).

Winter (December-February): Limited access due to snow; no specific seasonal events mentioned, but the area remains open with seasonal road information updates.