Discover the Heart of Yamagata’s Rural Charm
Kawaminato Nagai roadside station stands at the crossroads of nature and community, nestled in the scenic foothills of Yamagata Prefecture. Located just minutes from the bustling city of Shōnai, this vibrant hub offers travelers a refreshing pause amid rolling farmland, quiet forests, and the gentle flow of local streams. More than a rest stop, it’s a celebration of regional identity, where visitors connect with authentic local life.
The station shines through its seasonal harvest festivals and lively market events, showcasing the best of Yamagata’s agricultural treasures. From fresh mountain vegetables to handcrafted preserves, every product tells a story of tradition and care. With a thoughtfully curated online shop and a welcoming space for cultural exchange, Kawaminato Nagai invites you to slow down, savor the flavors of the region, and experience the true spirit of rural Japan.
Why Visit
Kawaminato Nagai stands out as the only roadside station in the region offering authentic Jersey cow milk ice cream, crafted daily using dairy from local farms. Visitors can also explore the unique "Ayaome no Sato" artisanal shop, where hand-pulled soba noodles made from locally grown buckwheat are prepared in traditional style. The station’s seasonal Harvest Festival features rare mountain vegetables and homemade miso, available exclusively here.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor fresh, local flavors at Kawaminato Nagai roadside station, where seasonal dishes celebrate the region's bountiful harvest.
Kawaminato Kitchen
川のみなとキッチン
Specialty
Local cuisine with a modern twist
A cozy restaurant offering a variety of regional dishes made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, perfect for enjoying authentic mountain and coastal flavors.
Soba House
そば家
Specialty
Handmade soba noodles
A traditional-style eatery specializing in freshly made buckwheat noodles. The quiet, rustic setting emphasizes the art of handmade soba preparation.
Café Forest
カフェフォレスト
Specialty
Artisan coffee and homemade pastries
A peaceful café nestled among trees, offering handcrafted coffee and freshly baked goods. The relaxed ambiance makes it ideal for reading or relaxing with friends.
Street Food Corner
屋台コーナー
Specialty
Quick, authentic street snacks
A lively food stall area offering fast, delicious street food made with local ingredients. Perfect for a quick bite while exploring the roadside station.
Shopping Highlights
Discover unique crafts and regional treasures at Kawaminato Nagai roadside station, perfect for souvenirs and gifts.
Ayaome no Sato Market
あやめの里市場
A fresh produce market featuring seasonal fruits, vegetables, and herbs grown in the region.
Products
Must-Try Item
Mountain-grown spinach
Sake & Spirits Shop
酒・リキュール専門店
A curated selection of local sake, shochu, and specialty alcoholic beverages from Yamagata Prefecture.
Products
Must-Try Item
Yamagata Junmai Daiginjo Sake
Craft & Souvenirs
工芸品・お土産
A shop offering handmade crafts, local art, and unique souvenirs from the region.
Products
Must-Try Item
Hand-painted ceramic mug
Mountain Delights Bakery
山の味屋ベーカリー
A small bakery specializing in breads and pastries made with regional grains and natural ingredients.
Products
Must-Try Item
Yamagata Black Rice Bread
Featured Products
Explore signature specialties like mountain-grown vegetables and handcrafted goods from Yamagata’s Zushigō area.
Yamagata Mountain Vegetable Mix
山形山菜ミックス
A blend of fresh, dried mountain vegetables harvested from the local region.
Local Sake Set
地元酒セット
A curated selection of three premium local sakes from Yamagata Prefecture.
Hand-Painted Ceramic Mug
手描き陶器マグカップ
A unique, hand-painted ceramic mug featuring traditional Yamagata patterns.
Yamagata Black Rice Flour
山形黒米粉
Premium flour made from locally grown black rice, ideal for baking and cooking.
Mountain Herb Tea Blend
山のハーブティー
A refreshing blend of wild herbs collected from the mountainous regions of Yamagata.
Activities & Experiences
Participate in seasonal events, hands-on workshops, and local experiences throughout the year at Kawaminato Nagai.
Autumn Harvest Festival
秋の収穫祭
Participants will enjoy seasonal harvest activities, local food tasting, and cultural performances celebrating the autumn harvest.
Duration
180 min
Outdoor activities may be affected by rain; please check the event status before visiting.
Kawano Minato Nagai Market
川のみなと長井マルシェ
Attendees can explore local vendors, sample regional specialties, and purchase fresh produce and handmade crafts from the area.
Duration
120 min
Market is held outdoors; bring rain gear if weather is uncertain.
Insider Tips
Visit during harvest festivals for the best local produce and insider access to community events at Kawaminato Nagai.
- Best Arrival Time: Arrive by 9:30 AM on weekends to secure a seat at the bakery counter before the fresh-baked milk bread from the local bakery, Aya's Bread, sells out—typically by 11:00 AM.
- Hidden Gems: Visit the deli counter between 10:00 AM and 11:30 AM to find the limited-edition Kawaminato Nagai Seasonal Pickle Box, made from cucumbers grown in the station’s own garden and available only during the autumn harvest festival.
- Weekend Special: On Saturdays and Sundays, head to the outdoor plaza between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM to experience the live cooking demonstrations by local chefs using ingredients from the Aya no Sato farm, where you can sample and purchase their signature Rice Porridge with Mountain Vegetables.
- Best Photo Spot: Take a photo at the wooden dock area near the riverbank, just south of the main parking lot, between 3:00 PM and 5:00 PM when the golden sunlight reflects off the water and the seasonal Chrysanthemum Display is in full bloom.
- Must-Try Product: Purchase the Kawaminato Nagai Mountain Honey at the online shop counter—only available in 100g jars, and it’s made from nectar collected from wildflowers in the nearby Ōkawa Forest, sold exclusively at the roadside station during the autumn festival.
- Timing for Events: Plan your visit on October 26–27, 2025, to attend the Autumn Harvest Festival & Kawaminato Nagai Market, when the food trucks from the Yamagata Sōji District serve grilled Tōkai-style Mackerel and Local Cabbage Dumplings between 12:00 PM and 4:00 PM.
- Free Activity: Join the free guided walk through the Aya no Sato Herb Garden every Saturday at 1:30 PM, where you’ll learn how to identify and harvest seasonal herbs used in the roadside station’s cooking classes.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March-May): Fresh bamboo shoots available at the market in April; canola flower viewing peaks in late April.
Summer (June-August): Peak season for local strawberries and sweet corn; outdoor markets feature summer vegetables.
Autumn (September-November): Autumn harvest festival and market held in October; chestnuts and sweet potatoes in season.
Winter (December-February): Limited seasonal offerings; focus on indoor crafts and regional souvenirs.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Offers a children's play area, family-friendly food options, stroller-accessible paths, and interactive local exhibits. Restrooms and clear signage enhance safety and convenience for families.
Food Lover Review
Features diverse local restaurants, fresh regional produce, and unique specialties like Ayame no Sato’s mountain vegetables. High-quality artisanal products and seasonal markets elevate the dining experience.
Car Camping Review
Provides clean restrooms, vending machines, and designated parking. While quiet during daytime, limited overnight facilities and no explicit camping policy reduce suitability for extended stays.
Scenic Beauty Review
Boasts scenic river views, well-maintained gardens, and seasonal landscapes. Photo spots at the waterfront and surrounding hills offer strong visual appeal and peaceful atmosphere.