Station Tozawa

Discover the Heart of Tozawa’s Rural Charm

Nestled in the serene countryside of Tozawa, this roadside station offers a welcoming retreat for travelers seeking authentic local experiences. Located along a scenic route surrounded by rolling hills and lush farmland, it serves as both a rest stop and a vibrant community hub where nature, tradition, and modern hospitality meet.

What sets Tozawa apart is its deep connection to regional agriculture and craftsmanship. Visitors can savor freshly harvested produce, sample handmade dairy products, and explore seasonal markets featuring artisanal goods. The station also hosts cultural events and local workshops, inviting guests to engage with the rhythms of rural life. Whether you're refueling on a journey or seeking a peaceful escape, Tozawa delivers a genuine taste of Japan’s countryside.

Tozawa roadside station is home to the region’s only on-site cheese cellar, where visitors can taste and purchase handcrafted aged cheese made from local Jersey cow milk. The station also features a seasonal farm-to-table café serving dishes made with fresh, locally raised kurobuta pork and heirloom vegetables grown in the surrounding highland fields. Only here can you experience the full journey from pasture to plate.

• Best Arrival Time: Arrive by 9:30 AM on weekends to secure a spot at the seasonal fruit stand, where fresh strawberries from the local farm are sold daily from 9:00 AM until sold out—typically by 11:00 AM.

• Hidden Gems: Visit the small wooden booth near the entrance to sample the handmade miso soup served hot every morning from 8:30 AM to 10:00 AM—only available during the winter months.

• Weekend Special: On Saturdays and Sundays, the on-site bakery releases 50限量 (limited) handmade milk bread loaves at exactly 9:00 AM—arrive by 8:45 AM to be first in line.

• Dining Tip: Order the grilled local trout at the food counter before 12:30 PM, as it is prepared fresh each day and often sells out by lunchtime.

• Parking Strategy: Use the far-left parking space near the red signpost when visiting on weekdays—it’s reserved for customers who plan to buy the seasonal pickled vegetables, which are only available between 10:00 AM and 12:00 PM.

• Product Alert: The organic honey displayed at the northeast corner of the gift shop is only restocked on Wednesdays and Fridays—purchase it on those days for the freshest batch.

• Photography Tip: The wooden bridge next to the flower garden is the best spot for photos with the mountain view—arrive between 1:00 PM and 2:30 PM when sunlight hits the path directly, creating a natural backlight.

Spring (March–May): Canola flowers bloom in full color from late March to April, and fresh bamboo shoots are available at the roadside station market in April.

Summer (June–August): Freshly harvested strawberries are available in early June, and evening events at the roadside station begin in July.

Autumn (September–November): Chestnuts are harvested in October, and the roadside station hosts a seasonal festival in early October.

Winter (December–February): No specific seasonal activities mentioned; limited market offerings during cold months.