Today’s adventure: a thrilling drive through the mystical mountains of Japan via Route 252, a hidden scenic route connecting Tadami in Fukushima and Uonuma in Niigata. I hit the road full of excitement, cruising from Fukushima to Niigata to Gunma—what a ride!
The mountain pass is called “Rokujurigoe,” which roughly means “Feels like 60 ri (240 km) even though it's only 6 ri (24 km)”—that’s how tough the climb used to be in the old days!
Since this area gets crazy heavy snowfall, the road is closed from early December to around Golden Week in May every year. So it’s only open about half the year—a true hidden gem of a road!
Lakeside Lunch at Restaurant Kagamigaike
After the winding Route 252, I stopped by “Michi-no-Eki Irihirose,” a roadside station with a floating lakeside restaurant.
I ordered their local specialty: “Goppou Soba” topped with "Yama-Gottsuo"—a soy-marinated mix of wild veggies like warabi (bracken), fuki (butterbur), and nameko mushrooms. Super earthy and healthy!
Simple, wholesome flavors that warm your heart 💚
After lunch, I took a little walk down to Kagamigaike. On calm days, the lake reflects the mountains like a perfect mirror—so peaceful and photogenic.
There’s even a legend that a goddess once used this lake as a mirror to brush her hair. Of course, I had to snap a pic with her statue 💁♀️✨
The roadside station also sells loads of Niigata’s famous goodies—rice, sake, cute souvenirs…
Look at this adorable “Sasa Snowman”! A local favorite in Uonuma ❄️
Quick Facts: Route 252 & Kagamigaike
Route 252 - Rokujurigoe
This winding mountain pass connects Tadami (Fukushima) and Uonuma (Niigata). Though it’s only about 24 km long, its steep and rugged nature earned it the legendary name “Rokujurigoe.”
☃️ Closed during winter: From December to early May due to heavy snowfall. A true “phantom route”!
Michi-no-Eki Irihirose & Kagamigaike Restaurant
📍 Location: Otochiyama 356-2, Uonuma City, Niigata
🚗 Access: Along Route 252, 3 min drive from JR Irihirose Station
🍽️ Hours: 10:00–16:00 (seasonal changes)
🅿️ Free parking
🥢 Specialties: Goppou soba, local mountain veggies, “Sasa Snowman” souvenirs, Niigata rice & sake