Discover Local Flavors! Michi-no-Eki – Roadside Stations in Yamanashi’s Northern Area

When traveling in Japan, one of the best places to buy souvenirs and taste regional specialties is the Michi-no-Eki (roadside station).

These rest stops are more than just a place to take a break—they feature shops selling local produce and crafts, food stalls, and even full restaurants where you can try regional dishes.

In this article, we’ll introduce the best Michi-no-Eki in northern Yamanashi Prefecture.

This area includes Kofu City (the prefectural capital), Hokuto City, Kai City, Nirasaki City, Minami-Alps City, Chuo City, and Showa Town. Each offers unique roadside stations where you can experience the charm of Yamanashi through food and culture.

Let’s take a closer look at what the northern area has to offer!

Hokuto City

Michi-no-Eki Kobuchisawa

Located in Hokuto City, Yamanashi Prefecture, Michi-no-Eki Kobuchisawa is surrounded by the breathtaking landscapes of the Southern Alps and Yatsugatake Mountains. Nearby stands Mt. Amigasa, one of Japan’s “100 Famous Mountains,” making this roadside station a popular stop for both hikers and nature lovers.

Inside the facility, you’ll find the beloved local organic bakery “Yama no Pan-ya Kuwanomi”. Their signature bread, the “Shio-Dake Shokupan” (salt-only bread), is so popular it often sells out early. With its simple yet rich flavor, it highlights the natural taste of the ingredients.

Access from Tokyo is also convenient! The Highway Bus from Shinjuku (Busta Shinjuku ⇔ Yatsugatake/Kiyosato Line) runs once daily and takes you directly to Spatio Kobuchisawa (Michi-no-Eki Kobuchisawa). Even on a day trip, you can enjoy around six hours of leisure time in Yatsugatake’s stunning natural surroundings.

【Michi-no-Eki Kobuchisawa】

Michi-no-Eki Minami Kiyosato

Located in Hokuto City, Yamanashi Prefecture, Michi-no-Eki Minami Kiyosato is a popular roadside station where you can enjoy seasonal events, local gourmet specialties, and stunning natural scenery.

One of its most famous events takes place every year from early April through Golden Week, when around 500 carp streamers (koinobori) are flown in the sky, creating a spectacular and festive sight. This has become a beloved spring tradition, especially popular with families.

A must-try gourmet treat here is the station’s signature dessert, the Shingen Soft-Serve. Topped with fragrant roasted soybean flour (kinako), rich black sugar syrup (kuromitsu), and even an authentic Kikyo Shingen Mochi, this indulgent ice cream is truly a taste of Yamanashi.

For those traveling with pets, the facility also features a dog run, offering a spacious area where dogs can run and play freely.

Right nearby, the Minami Yatsugatake Flower Park has an observation deck with breathtaking panoramic views of both the Southern Alps and Yatsugatake Mountains, making it an ideal spot for a short nature stroll.

This roadside station is packed with charm, offering a perfect place to relax and recharge in between your Yamanashi sightseeing adventures.

【Michi-no-Eki Minami Kiyosato】

Michi-no-Eki Hakushu

Located in Hakushu Town, Hokuto City, Yamanashi Prefecture, Michi-no-Eki Hakushu is a beloved roadside station that showcases the charm of Hakushu, a region renowned as the “Home of Famous Water”.

Right in front of the station rises Mt. Kaikoma, one of Japan’s “100 Famous Mountains,” offering a stunning backdrop and access to nearby trailheads.

The highlight here is undoubtedly the natural spring water station. Selected as one of Japan’s “100 Famous Waters,” Hakushu’s crystal-clear spring water can be collected for free if you bring your own bottle. Many visitors come specifically to experience and taste this pure mountain water.

Inside the facility, you’ll find a farmers’ market selling local vegetables, fruits, and specialty products, perfect for sampling Yamanashi’s seasonal flavors or picking up souvenirs.

For dining, the onsite Kamoshika Shokudo serves hearty set meals and regional dishes made with fresh local produce nurtured by Hakushu’s pure waters. With panoramic mountain views as a backdrop, it’s the perfect place to savor both the taste and the scenery of Yamanashi.

【Michi-no-Eki Hakushu】

READ MORE

Nirasaki City

Michi-no-Eki Nirasaki

Located in northwestern Yamanashi Prefecture, Michi-no-Eki Nirasaki is the perfect roadside stop, offering breathtaking views of both the Yatsugatake Mountains and the Southern Alps. It’s a convenient place to take a break during sightseeing or a road trip.

One of its highlights is accessibility—just a short walk from the “Yu-Pool Nirasaki” bus stop, making it easy to reach even by public transportation.

The local specialty you won’t want to miss is the Soy Sauce Soft-Serve Ice Cream, made with soy sauce from the long-established Idutsuya Shoyu Company. Its unique sweet-and-salty flavor makes it an unforgettable treat you can only taste here.

Right across the street from the roadside station is the Yu-Pool Nirasaki day-use hot spring facility, complete with hot spring baths, a jacuzzi, and even a swimming pool. It’s the perfect spot to relax and unwind after a day of exploring.

Surrounded by pristine water and lush nature, Nirasaki offers the ideal balance of local gourmet experiences and relaxation.

【Michi-no-Eki Nirasaki】

READ MORE

Minami-Alps City

Michi-no-Eki Shirane

Located in Minami-Alps City, Yamanashi Prefecture, Michi-no-Eki Shirane is a popular roadside station where you can fully experience the charm of Yamanashi—the Kingdom of Fruits.

The highlight here is the farmers’ market, where you can purchase freshly harvested local produce, including large, juicy cherries and other seasonal fruits, often at surprisingly affordable prices. Thanks to the freshness and great value, many visitors return again and again.

For a light snack, don’t miss the fruit sandwiches, generously filled with seasonal fruits, making them perfect for a refreshing break.

In July 2024, the station hosted a wildly popular “All-You-Can-Eat Peach Event”, celebrating one of Yamanashi’s most famous fruits. Similar seasonal events are likely to be held in the future, so be sure to check the latest updates before your visit.

【Michi-no-Eki Shirane】

READ MORE

Chuo City

Michi-no-Eki Toyotomi

Located in Chuo City, Yamanashi Prefecture, Michi-no-Eki Toyotomi is a charming roadside station surrounded by greenery, making it a perfect stop during your travels. Easily accessible within the prefecture, it offers a relaxing break for both locals and visitors.

The station’s star product is the Toyotomi Sweet Corn, a local specialty known for its exceptionally high sugar content. So sweet it can be eaten raw, this corn attracts visitors from across the region every summer.

Inside the facility, you’ll also find a variety of corn-based products such as sweets and processed foods, allowing you to discover new ways to enjoy this beloved ingredient.

Seasonal events are another highlight, featuring local produce markets and food festivals that draw families and tourists alike. No matter when you visit, there’s always something new to experience.

【Michi-no-Eki Toyotomi】

READ MORE

Kai City, Kofu City, and Showa Town

No Information

READ MORE

Summary

今In this article, we introduced several Michi-no-Eki in the northern area of Yamanashi Prefecture. Each roadside station offers a unique way to experience local specialties, seasonal events, and the natural beauty of the region.

Looking for more? We also feature other Michi-no-Eki guides across Yamanashi in our related articles. Be sure to check them out to plan the perfect stopovers for your next road trip!

Recommended for You! Featured Articles You May Also Like