Discover the Heart of Yamanashi’s Natural Splendor
Nestled in the serene hills of southern Yamanashi Prefecture near the border with Shizuoka, Tomizawa roadside station stands as a gateway to the region’s untouched beauty and rich agricultural heritage. Located along National Route 52, this vibrant hub offers travelers a perfect blend of relaxation, local culture, and outdoor adventure.
More than just a rest stop, Tomizawa celebrates the area’s status as a premier bamboo shoot producer, with seasonal bamboo rice and fresh local soba featured in its dining corner. Visitors can explore the nearby Fushigawa Gorge, home to the stunning Seven-Kettle Falls, or unwind at the traditional wooden-style Okuyama Onsen. With guided hiking routes along the Tōkai Nature Trail and access to four of Yamanashi’s Hundred Famous Mountains, Tomizawa is a true sanctuary for nature lovers and cultural explorers alike.
Why Visit
At Tomizawa roadside station, discover the region’s only authentic bamboo shoot rice, served exclusively during peak season and on select weekends. Only here can you sample handmade bamboo shoot preserves and experience traditional bamboo crafting, a craft deeply rooted in the local culture. Just steps away, the dramatic Seven-Kettle Falls in the Fushigawa Gorge offers a rare, breathtaking canyon vista perfect for hiking enthusiasts.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor fresh mountain flavors at Tomizawa roadside station, where seasonal bamboo shoots and local soba shine in every bite.
Bamboo Shoot Rice Restaurant
たけのこごはん
Specialty
Seasonal bamboo shoot rice made with local ingredients
A traditional dining experience featuring locally sourced bamboo shoots, available seasonally during April and May (excluding Tuesdays) and on weekends in other months. The restaurant offers a warm, rustic atmosphere with a focus on regional flavors.
Shopping Highlights
Discover unique regional treasures at Tomizawa, from handmade bamboo crafts to local tea and savory wheat dumplings.
Local Specialty Store
物産館
A retail space offering a variety of regional products from the area, including tea, bamboo shoots, and handmade crafts.
Products
Must-Try Item
Bamboo Shoots
Featured Products
Explore signature specialties like mountain-grown bamboo shoots, traditional tea, and handcrafted bamboo goods unique to the area.
Bamboo Shoots
たけのこのゆで子
Pre-cooked bamboo shoots preserved in their natural essence, ideal for cooking or eating as a snack.
Bamboo Craft Items
竹加工品
Handmade bamboo products crafted using traditional techniques from local materials.
Wheat Dumplings
小麦まんじゅう
Soft, steamed dumplings made with locally grown wheat flour, offering a sweet and delicate taste.
Local Tea
お茶
Premium tea produced in the mountainous region of Yamanashi, known for its fresh and aromatic flavor.
Facilities & Amenities
Relax with 24-hour parking, clean restrooms, and free Wi-Fi at Tomizawa roadside station, plus helpful information kiosks.
Parking Lot
Provides parking for 45 small cars, 12 large vehicles, 2 disabled parking spaces, and 4 motorcycle spaces.
At the roadside station
Restroom
Includes 7 male toilets, 8 female toilets, 2 disabled toilets, and 1 children's toilet.
At the roadside station
Free Wi-Fi
Free wireless LAN is available at the roadside station.
At the roadside station
Information Center
Offers road information, nearby road station details, weather updates, traffic restrictions, Fuji Mountain area station brochures, and tourism and event information via information terminals.
Inside the roadside station
Play Area
Features a children's playground and park area for family recreation.
At the roadside station
Oyama Onsen
A quiet, wooden-style hot spring resort located in the mountains, featuring a relaxing bath and a large outdoor bath with the scent of cedar and cypress wood.
Approximately 7 kilometers from the roadside station
EV Charging Station
Electric vehicle charging facilities are available at the roadside station.
At the roadside station
ATM
An automated teller machine is available for financial services.
At the roadside station
Nursing Room
A dedicated room for nursing mothers is available at the roadside station.
At the roadside station
Insider Tips
Visit on weekends or during summer for limited-time events and fresh seasonal produce at Tomizawa roadside station.
- Best Arrival Time: Visit between 9:30 AM and 10:30 AM on weekdays to purchase fresh bamboo shoots from the produce counter before they sell out, as the seasonal bamboo rice is only served on specific days and sells out quickly
- Hidden Gems: Check the information terminal in the visitor center for real-time rainfall data and traffic alerts on National Route 52, especially during rainy season months
- Weekend Special: On Saturdays and Sundays from April to May, try the seasonal local soba noodles at the dining area, available only during these months and served until 4:00 PM
- Local Product Tip: Buy bamboo shoot boiled snacks (yudoko) directly from the product counter before 4:00 PM, as they are only available during the peak harvest season and often sell out by mid-afternoon
- Nearby Attraction Access: Use the roadside station’s information desk to get directions and maps for the seven-kilometer hike to Shui Sato Tokuma no Sato, where you can experience bamboo craft workshops and fish-catching activities at the fish fry center (open only in summer)
- Best Viewpoint Timing: Arrive at the roadside station by 4:30 PM to enjoy the sunset view over the Fushigawa Gorge, where the V-shaped canyon and layered waterfall basins are most dramatically lit
- Proximity Advantage: Use the roadside station’s restroom and parking facilities before heading to the Oyama Onsen, located just 2 kilometers away, to avoid long waits at the onsen’s entrance during peak hours
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March–May): Peak bamboo shoot season (April–May) with fresh shoots available at the roadside station and local restaurants.
Summer (June–August): Best time for fishing at Fukushi River Gorge and visiting the fish hatchery (summer only).
Autumn (September–November): Ideal for hiking mountain trails, including four of Yamanashi’s Hundred Famous Mountains.
Winter (December–February): Quiet season with limited events; best for peaceful visits to the onsen and surrounding nature.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Features a dedicated children's playground, stroller-friendly paths, and kid-friendly dining options. Educational elements include local nature and farming activities, with clear signage and interactive exhibits suitable for families.
Food Lover Review
Offers seasonal local specialties like bamboo shoot rice and fresh soba. Features high-quality regional products, including preserved bamboo shoots and wheat manjuu, with fresh produce available at the market.
Car Camping Review
Provides 24-hour restroom access and vending machines, but lacks designated overnight parking and camping facilities. Quiet surroundings support rest, though no official camping rules are listed.
Scenic Beauty Review
Surrounded by forested mountains and the scenic Fushi River Gorge, with stunning views of the V-shaped canyon and the Seven-Kettle Falls. Offers multiple photo spots and seasonal beauty throughout the year.