Station Mitomi

Discover the Heart of the Highlands at Michinoeki Mitomi

Nestled at the northern gateway between Yamanashi and Saitama prefectures, Michinoeki Mitomi stands as a vibrant roadside station where mountain and valley meet. Located just two kilometers from the Kansaka Tunnel tollgate along National Route 140, it serves as a vital hub for travelers and a gateway to the scenic Wasei Gorge. Surrounded by lush forests and seasonal beauty, the station comes alive in spring with cherry blossoms, summer with vibrant greenery, and autumn with stunning foliage.

What sets Mitomi apart is its deep connection to local culture and cuisine. Visitors can savor the region’s signature dishes, including handmade houtou noodles crafted from scratch, savory pork ramen, and unique treats like yuzu konjac and mountain vegetable soba. The on-site shop offers a curated selection of local specialties—from peach preserves and honey to traditional wagashi and Yamanashi grape wine—while the adjacent 7inchCAMP Dog Base provides a welcoming space for outdoor enthusiasts. With electric vehicle charging, a well-equipped rest area, and seasonal events like the annual agricultural gratitude festival, Mitomi offers more than a pit stop—it offers a true taste of rural Japan.

Located at the northern gateway between Yamanashi and Saitama, Mitomi roadside station is uniquely positioned as the only stop offering access to the scenic West River Gorge, a haven for hikers drawn to its spring cherry blossoms, lush greenery, and vibrant autumn foliage. What sets Mitomi apart is its exclusive on-site preparation of handcrafted houtou—local buckwheat noodles simmered in a rich, house-made broth using regional ingredients, a dish so authentic it rivals specialty restaurants. Visitors also find the only place in the area to sample yuzu konjac, a tangy, chewy delicacy, and taste the region’s famed giant grape wine, made from grapes grown in nearby vineyards.

• Best Arrival Time: Visit by 9:30 AM on weekdays to secure a seat at the cafeteria before the daily batch of handmade Houtou noodles sells out, as this specialty dish is prepared fresh each day and often sells out by 11:00 AM.

• Hidden Gems: At the deli counter, look for the yuzu konjac and inobuta shumai—these locally made items are only available at Mitomi and are consistently praised by regular visitors.

• Weekend Special: On Sundays, check the information desk between 10:00 AM and 12:00 PM for the Farmers' Market Pop-Up, where local producers offer fresh seasonal vegetables and fruit directly from the field—available only on weekends and often sold out by noon.

• Electric Vehicle Tip: Use the fast charging station located near the main entrance, but plan to arrive before 12:00 PM on weekdays to avoid peak usage, as the station is frequently occupied during afternoon rush hours.

• Best Food Pairing: Order the inobuta ramen with the local honey from the shop—it’s sold in small bottles and is perfect for drizzling over the ramen to enhance the savory flavor.

• Seasonal Event: Attend the Farmers' Appreciation Festival on October 26, held in the parking area, where you can sample homemade mushroom soup, pork stew, and miso yakitori prepared by local farmers—this event only happens once a year.

• Camping Pro Tip: If staying at the 7inchCAMP Mitomi DOG BASE campsite, reserve your BBQ set in advance through the official website, as the sets include premium Japanese beef and Yamanashi-grown vegetables and are only available for campers and pre-booked visitors.

Spring (March-May): Peak season for cherry blossoms at Yamasakura and fresh mountain vegetables in early spring.

Summer (June-August): Best time for hiking the West River Gorge trail and enjoying grilled BBQ sets at the roadside station.

Autumn (September-November): Ideal for the Agricultural Product Thank You Festival in October and viewing autumn foliage.

Winter (December-February): Cozy season for savoring handmade houtou noodles and visiting during the quiet mountain months.