Discover the Heart of Yamagata’s Natural Bounty
Shiroi Mori Oguni is a vibrant roadside station nestled along National Route 113, just five kilometers east of the Niigata Prefecture border in the lush, forested town of Oguni, Yamagata. Surrounded by the pristine beauty of the Bandai-Azuma National Park, this destination captures the essence of rural Japan with its deep connection to nature, local heritage, and seasonal abundance. More than a pit stop, it’s a gateway to the region’s rich mountain culture.
Visitors can savor freshly made soba and udon with wild mountain vegetables at the Bunacha-ya snack corner, enjoy hearty regional dishes in the cozy log-house restaurant Aiai, or browse the well-stocked farm market offering local mushrooms, pickles, crafts, and regional sake. With scenic viewpoints like Kurozawa Pass and Kakishiba Gorge nearby, Shiroi Mori Oguni offers a complete experience of nature, flavor, and tranquility.
Why Visit
Located in the heart of Yamagata’s forested Kōgō Town, Shiroi Mori Oguni is the only roadside station where you can taste wild mountain vegetables from the region’s pristine alpine slopes, including rare edible fiddlehead ferns and snowdrop shoots, served in handmade soba at the Buna Tea House. Its standout feature is the exclusive "Kōgō Forest Soba," made from locally foraged ingredients and prepared in a traditional stone mill. Visitors also find the only on-site restaurant, Aiai, offering seasonal kaiseki meals centered around wild mushrooms and heirloom rice, all sourced within a 30-kilometer radius.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor local flavors at Shiroi Mori Oguni roadside station, where mountain-inspired dishes and hearty meals await.
Buna Tea House (Light Meals & Rest Area)
ぶな茶屋（軽食・休憩コーナー）
Specialty
Light meals featuring local mountain vegetables
A casual spot offering light meals such as soba and udon with locally foraged mountain vegetables, along with various fast food options for a quick and affordable bite.
Restaurant Aiai
レストランあいあい
Specialty
Local regional cuisine using fresh local ingredients
A cozy restaurant with a log cabin-style interior, offering traditional regional dishes made from the natural bounty of the area. The atmosphere is peaceful and inviting, ideal for a relaxed meal.
Shopping Highlights
Discover authentic regional goods and seasonal treats at Shiroi Mori Oguni roadside station’s bustling market.
Local Products Direct Sales Store
物産品直売所
Sells a wide variety of local products including wild mushrooms, mountain vegetables, pickled vegetables, regional sweets, local sake, and other regional specialties from Yamagata Prefecture.
Products
Must-Try Item
Local Sake
Featured Products
Taste the essence of the region with Shiroi Mori Oguni roadside station’s signature mountain delicacies and local specialties.
Wild Mushroom Dried Pack
山の幸乾物パック
Dried wild mushrooms harvested from the local forests, perfect for soups and stews.
Mountain Vegetable Pickle
山菜漬物
Traditional pickled mountain vegetables preserved in local brine, known for their crisp texture and natural flavor.
Local Sake (Kamakura Brand)
地酒（かまくらブランド）
Premium local sake brewed in the region using traditional methods and local water sources.
Forest Herb Tea
森のハーブティー
A blend of wild herbs collected from the surrounding forests, offering a refreshing and natural taste.
Regional Sweet (Kakigori-style)
地元銘菓（かき氷風）
A traditional sweet inspired by the local snow and forest culture, ideal for summer enjoyment.
Facilities & Amenities
Relax and recharge at Shiroi Mori Oguni roadside station with well-equipped restrooms, parking, and modern amenities.
Parking
Large vehicles (20), ordinary vehicles (158), disabled parking (8)
On the premises
Restroom
Male toilets (8), female toilets (6), disabled toilets (1)
On the premises
Information Center
Available information services for visitors
On the premises
Electric Vehicle Charging Station
Fast charging station for electric vehicles
On the premises
ATM
Cash machine available on site
On the premises
Nursing Room
Private room for nursing mothers
On the premises
Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi available for visitors
On the premises
Activities & Experiences
Immerse yourself in nature and culture through seasonal events and hands-on workshops at Shiroi Mori Oguni roadside station.
Rhododendron Week
石楠花ウィーク
Experience the blooming rhododendrons in the area during the annual Rhododendron Week, a seasonal celebration highlighting the natural beauty of the region.
Duration
120 min
Best enjoyed on clear days; avoid rainy weather for optimal viewing.
Insider Tips
Maximize your visit with local insights and practical tips for exploring Shiroi Mori Oguni roadside station and its surroundings.
- Best Arrival Time: Visit the direct sales shop by 9:30 AM on weekdays to secure the day's fresh mountain vegetable and wild mushroom selection, which is often sold out by noon
- Hidden Gems: Ask for the seasonal "Sasa No Kusa" (bamboo shoot) pickled in rice bran at the direct sales shop—available only in early summer and not always stocked
- Weekend Special: On Saturdays and Sundays, visit the deli counter between 10:00 AM and 11:30 AM to try the limited-edition "Oguni Mountain Herb Udon" served at Bunacha Ya
- Must-Try Menu Item: Order the "Buna Tea and Local Cheese Toast" at Bunacha Ya between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM, as it is only available during lunch hours and features locally sourced dairy
- Best Photo Spot: Walk to the Tegura Pass trailhead just 200 meters east of the roadside station for the best view of the "white forest" canopy and the surrounding pine trees
- Electric Vehicle Tip: Use the rapid charging station located near the parking area's southern edge—access is easiest when arriving from the eastbound lane on National Route 113
- Special Event Timing: Check the information counter for updates on the annual Rhododendron Week in May, when the station offers free guided walks to the Kajika Falls trailhead
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March-May): Peak season for wild mountain vegetables and the annual Rhododendron Week in May offers blooming flowers and guided forest walks.
Summer (June-August): Fresh bamboo shoots and wild mushrooms are available at the direct sales shop, ideal for enjoying local cuisine.
Autumn (September-November): The area's forests display vibrant colors, and the autumn harvest includes seasonal mountain delicacies and preserved foods.
Winter (December-February): Snow-covered landscapes surround the roadside station, offering serene views and cozy dining experiences.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Offers a children's play area, family-friendly food options, and stroller-accessible facilities. Restrooms are clean and well-maintained, with designated spaces for people with disabilities. Educational value comes from local nature and regional products.
Food Lover Review
Features diverse dining choices including local mountain vegetable noodles and regional dishes. Offers high-quality local specialties like wild mushrooms and pickled vegetables. Fresh produce and regional sake are available at the direct sales shop.
Car Camping Review
Provides restrooms, vending machines, and electric vehicle charging stations. The site is relatively quiet with natural surroundings suitable for overnight stays. Overnight parking is permitted but not explicitly advertised.
Scenic Beauty Review
Surrounded by forests and mountain views, especially within the Bandai-Azuma National Park. Offers scenic viewpoints like Kurozawa Pass and Kakizaka Falls. Seasonal beauty is enhanced by cherry blossoms and autumn foliage.