Drop in to Ogimi Village’s Michi-no-Eki to find out what awaits you in this picturesque mountain village. The visitor center is a fantastic first stop on your exploration of the surrounding forests, waterfalls and folk landmarks. Learn about Ogimi Village’s nature-loving mascot, Bunagaya, who greets visitors to the pretty roadside rest stop.
Michi-no-Eki are roadside rest stops found throughout Japan. You won’t be able to miss Ogimi’s Michi-no-Eki with its towering sign displaying Bunagaya with his flowing red hair. Take some time to stretch your legs and explore the intriguing rest stop. The two-story building contains a visitor center, where you can learn about the nearby attractions. Pick up brochures and maps that show the way to the beautiful waterfalls, ancient forests and rolling hillsides that meet the East China Sea.
Check out the market, which sells fruits and vegetables from local farms. Ogimi Village is known for being the home to some of the world’s oldest people. The people of Ogimi say their famous vitality and long lives are owed to their rich traditions of a healthy diet, fresh mountain air and clear river waters. Pick up fresh fruits and vegetables to snack on during your travels, such as the popular shiquasa citrus fruit. Michi-no-Eki also has two dining areas. Enjoy a traditional Ogimi soba noodle dish at the restaurant or order delicious Okinawan fare at the cafeteria.
Stocked up and refreshed with delicious local food, you’ll be ready to explore the surrounding scenery. Visit Ogimi Village’s beautiful attractions, such as the Shinkawa and Nana Taki waterfalls, the Shioyafuji Mountain and Shioya Bay, where the hills meet the sea. See traditional houses topped with red tiles and explore nature trails through the lush forest.
The Michi-no-Eki in Ogimi Village is approximately 2.5-hours’ drive from Naha Airport in the beautiful Yambaru region of northern Okinawa. The visitor center, market and restaurants are open year-round however, there may be reduced hours and limited produce during the winter months.
