Station Nagato Kyo

Discover the Heart of Yamaguchi’s Natural Beauty

Nestled along National Route 9 in Yamaguchi City’s Ato district, Nagato Kyo roadside station stands as the welcoming gateway to the nationally designated scenic site, Nagato Gorge. Surrounded by lush forests and the clear waters of the Abu River, this vibrant stop offers travelers a perfect blend of natural serenity and local charm. Just a three-minute walk from the gorge’s hiking trail, it’s an ideal place to pause, refuel, and explore.

What sets Nagato Kyo apart is its deep connection to the region’s rich agricultural heritage. Visitors can savor locally raised Ato Wagyu beef, fresh seasonal fruits like apples and pears, and unique treats such as rice flour soft serve and sake-based amazake ice cream. The on-site market, Ato no Megumi, and the dining hall, Nagato Kyo, showcase the best of Ato’s produce, while seasonal events like the Ayu fishing festival bring families and nature lovers together. Whether seeking a peaceful walk, a taste of authentic regional cuisine, or hands-on cultural experiences, Nagato Kyo offers a true journey into the soul of Yamaguchi.

Nagato Kyo roadside station stands at the gateway to the nationally designated scenic site Nagato Gorge, offering visitors the rare chance to experience the region’s only seasonal ayu fishing events, where you can catch wild mountain trout from the clear waters of the Abu River. At the heart of the station’s appeal is its exclusive rice-based soft cream made from locally grown Abuto rice—Japan’s first rice flour soft cream—alongside a unique limited-edition amazake (sweet rice drink) soft cream crafted from Abuto’s traditional, non-alcoholic fermented rice. These are not just treats—they’re a taste of the area’s agricultural heritage, available nowhere else.

• Best Arrival Time: Visit between 9:30 AM and 10:00 AM on weekdays to access the full selection of fresh produce at the direct sales store "Ato no Megumi" before the midday rush, as popular items like Ato Wagyu and seasonal fruits often sell out by noon.

• Hidden Gems: Ask for the limited-edition Miso made with Ato-grown rice koji at the "Ato no Megumi" sales counter—this product is only available during specific seasons and is not widely advertised.

• Weekend Special: On weekends, arrive by 10:30 AM to secure a spot at the outdoor stage for the live cultural performances that begin at 11:00 AM and feature local folk music and traditional dance.

• Seasonal Experience: Visit during late October to try the Ato-grown amazake soft-serve at the takeout counter—this seasonal item is only available from October through November and is made using locally produced non-alcoholic amazake.

• Best Time for Nature: Use the information counter to obtain the official Chomonkyo Trail Map and begin your walk along the 5.1 km scenic path just after 9:00 AM on weekdays to avoid crowds and enjoy the best views of the autumn foliage with fewer visitors.

• Foodie Tip: Order the Ato Wagyu croquette from the takeout counter before 3:00 PM, as it is only freshly prepared in the morning and is not restocked—this item sells out daily.

• Event Planning: Check the Instagram account @chomonkyo1231 for real-time updates on the Ayu fishing festival, which runs from June to August and includes registration for hands-on fishing events—register online in advance to secure your spot.

Spring (March-May): Visit for the "Ato no Spring MAP" and fresh seasonal produce at the market, with cherry blossoms at Tokusa Hachiman Shrine in early April.

Summer (June-August): Experience the annual Ayu fishing festivals in July and August, with cool river walks along Chomonkyo’s scenic trail.

Autumn (September-November): Ideal for viewing peak autumn foliage at Chomonkyo, with the official red leaf season running from late October through early November.

Winter (December-February): Enjoy local rice-based treats like rice malt soft serve and the cozy ambiance of the roadside station during quiet months.