Complete Guide to Nagano Roadside Stations｜In-depth information on recommended spots, specialties, and access information

Nagano Prefecture is a region rich in tourist attractions, and Michi-no-Eki (roadside stations) are part of that appeal.

Roadside stations are used by many travelers as convenient places to rest, eat, and purchase local specialties.

This article introduces recommended roadside stations in Nagano Prefecture by region, and provides information on the features and recommended ways to enjoy each roadside station.

It is a must-see for those who want to take a break during their trip and for those who want to buy local specialties.

What is a roadside station in Nagano Prefecture?

Roadside stations in Nagano Prefecture are popular not only for providing rest stops and tourist information, but also for selling local specialties.

Roadside stations are also used as relay points for tourist attractions, making them convenient and important for many drivers and tourists.

Nagano Prefecture is dotted with unique roadside stations in various locations, delighting visitors.

Recommended Roadside Stations in Nagano

Nagano Prefecture is home to many roadside stations, each with its own unique characteristics. Here are a few roadside stations that are especially worth visiting.

1. roadside station, Shinshu Hiratani

Shinshu Hiratani is located in southern Nagano Prefecture, close to the Ena Interchange on the Chuo Expressway.

Surrounded by rich natural scenery, vegetables and fruits from Shinshu are sold inside the roadside station.

There is also a restaurant where you can enjoy lunch using fresh local vegetables, making it an ideal rest stop for sightseeing.

Specialties and Dining

Recommended specialty products in Shinshu Hiratani are apples and pickled nozawana from Nagano Prefecture.

They all have a unique local flavor and are perfect for a memorable sightseeing experience. The restaurant in the roadside station offers dishes using these specialties.

The "Shinshu Soba" is a particularly popular menu item, with an authentic taste made from local buckwheat flour.

2. roadside station, Shirakaba-no-sato

Shirakaba-no-sato is located in the northern part of Nagano Prefecture and is a spot where visitors can take a break while enjoying beautiful natural scenery.

The surrounding mountains are especially famous for their seasonal scenery.

Fresh local fruits and vegetables are abundant in the roadside station, and "Shinshu apples" are a particularly popular product.

Tourist Information and Resting Spots

This roadside station has a tourist information center that provides information on tourist attractions in the area.

It is also an excellent rest stop, making it an easy stop for drivers and tourists alike.

Next to the roadside station, there is a relaxing hot spring facility, a perfect place to take a break from sightseeing.

3. roadside station Obuse

Obuse is about a 30-minute drive from Nagano City and is known for its chestnuts.

Obuse Roadside Station offers a wide variety of products made from locally produced chestnuts, making it a favorite spot for chestnut lovers.

Specialty products using chestnuts

The centerpiece of Obuse Roadside Station is, of course, chestnuts.

Cakes, Japanese sweets, jams, and other products made with chestnuts are sold, and chestnut lovers will find them irresistible.

Inside the roadside station, there is a café where visitors can enjoy chestnut sweets and relax.

Roadside Station, Alps Kaido Omachi

Located in Omachi City, Roadside Station "Alps Kaido Omachi" is situated at the foot of the Northern Alps and offers a place to take a break amidst spectacular scenery.

In addition to fresh local vegetables and fruits, the roadside station also has a cafeteria where visitors can enjoy Omachi's famous "Omachi Donburi" (bowl of rice topped with vegetables).

Local specialties

Omachi Donburi" is a specialty of Omachi City, a healthy bowl of rice topped with local specialties.

The cafeteria in the roadside station is a must-see for tourists, as it offers a wide variety of dishes made with local ingredients.

Fun at Roadside Stations

Many of the roadside stations in Nagano Prefecture are not only rest stops but also tourist destinations.

Here are some recommended activities you can enjoy at the roadside station.

1. purchase local products

Nagano Prefecture is a region blessed with abundant nature and a wealth of fresh produce and specialty products produced there.

At the roadside station, local vegetables, fruits, and handmade processed goods are available, making it a great place to purchase souvenirs as a reminder of your trip.

2. meals and breaks

Roadside stations often have restaurants and cafes that use local ingredients.

In particular, dishes using Shinshu soba (buckwheat noodles) and seasonal vegetables are unique to Nagano.

After enjoying a meal, visitors can relax in the rest area inside the roadside station.

3. use of tourist information centers

Many roadside stations have tourist information centers attached, providing information on nearby tourist attractions and events.

With the information at the roadside station, you can enjoy the surrounding attractions more deeply.

How to get to Nagano Roadside Station

Roadside stations in Nagano Prefecture are scattered along major expressways and national highways in the prefecture, making access by car very convenient.

Some roadside stations can also be visited by public transportation. It is best to keep the access method in mind to make your trip smoother.

Access by car

Roadside stations in Nagano Prefecture are located along major roads such as the Chuo Expressway and Nagano Expressway.

For example, the Chuo Expressway provides easy access to Michi-no-Eki Shinshu Hiratani and Alps Kaido Omachi.

Access by public transportation

Some roadside stations in Nagano Prefecture are also accessible by bus or train.

You can also get information at the tourist information center and visit by public transportation.

summary

Roadside Stations in Nagano Prefecture offer tourist attractions and are very useful as places to purchase local products and rest.

As a tourist destination, each region has its own unique roadside station where travelers can spend meaningful time.

On your next trip to Nagano, be sure to visit a roadside station and enjoy the local delicacies and tourist information.