Taste the Heart of Rural Japan
Gojōme roadside station is a vibrant gateway nestled in the serene landscapes of Minamiboso, where ancient forests meet fertile farmland. More than a stopover, it’s a celebration of local heritage, offering fresh seasonal produce, handcrafted wooden goods, and regional specialties like the famous damako hot pot.
Surrounded by a natural observation garden with a 300-year-old cedar and seasonal blooms like mountain lilies, visitors can stroll through tranquil woods, enjoy a soft-serve made from local strawberries, or relax in a gallery showcasing traditional crafts. Every visit is a sensory journey through community, nature, and flavor.
Why Visit
Visit Gojome to savor the region’s only daamako hot pot, made with locally caught freshwater fish, and taste the rare wild strawberry soft cream crafted from mountain-harvested hikinoko strawberries. Wander through the ancient cedar forest where 300-year-old trees surround a hidden frog pond, a serene retreat unique to this roadside station.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor authentic local flavors at Gojōme roadside station, where seasonal ingredients shine in dishes like the famed damako hot pot.
Dama-ko Nabe Specialty Restaurant
だまこ鍋専門店
Specialty
Local specialty dish made with fresh ingredients from Gojōme
A dedicated restaurant offering the famous Dama-ko Nabe, a traditional local hot pot made with seasonal ingredients sourced directly from the surrounding region. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, perfect for families and visitors seeking authentic regional flavors.
Gojōme Forest Café
五城目森カフェ
Specialty
Local strawberries and traditional crafts
A cozy café nestled within the roadside station, offering a peaceful retreat with views of the surrounding forest. Known for its homemade soft cream and locally sourced coffee, it also features an exhibition space for traditional crafts from Gojōme.
Shopping Highlights
Discover fresh produce, handmade crafts, and regional specialties at Gojōme roadside station’s vibrant market.
Gojōme Farmers Market
五城目農産物直売所
A fresh market offering seasonal vegetables, fruits, and locally processed goods directly from regional farmers.
Products
Must-Try Item
Freshly harvested strawberries
Gojōme Craft Gallery
五城目工芸ギャラリー
A specialty store showcasing traditional crafts from Gojōme, including handcrafted wooden items and artisanal works.
Products
Must-Try Item
Hand-carved wooden figurines
Gojōme Sake & Confectionery Shop
五城目日本酒と和菓子
A retail space offering local sake, traditional Japanese sweets, and seasonal confections from Gojōme.
Products
Must-Try Item
Gojōme seasonal wagashi
Featured Products
Taste signature items like fresh kiwifruit and locally crafted sweets, celebrating Gojōme’s rich agricultural heritage.
Gojōme Fresh Strawberries
五城目新鮮いちご
Vibrant, sweet strawberries grown in the fertile fields of Gojōme, harvested at peak ripeness.
Gojōme Dama-ko Nabe Seasoning Pack
五城目だまこ鍋スープの素
A ready-to-use seasoning blend that captures the authentic flavor of the famous Dama-ko Nabe, perfect for home cooking.
Gojōme Wooden Craft Set
五城目木工品セット
A curated set of handcrafted wooden items made using traditional techniques from Gojōme’s forest artisans.
Gojōme Local Sake
五城目地酒
Premium sake brewed using local water and rice, reflecting the unique terroir of Gojōme.
Gojōme Seasonal Wagashi
五城目季節和菓子
Artisanal Japanese sweets made with seasonal ingredients, crafted in the traditional style of Gojōme.
Facilities & Amenities
Relax with specialty soft cream and coffee, enjoy art displays, and take advantage of convenient amenities at Gojōme roadside station.
Information Center
The roadside station features an information center that provides visitors with details about local attractions, events, and services.
Main area of the roadside station
Restroom
Clean and accessible restrooms are available for visitors.
Near the main entrance and cafe area
Parking
Ample parking space is provided for vehicles, including large vehicles.
Front and side of the roadside station
Free Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the premises for visitors' convenience.
Throughout the roadside station
Children's Play Area
A dedicated play area is available for children, including near the meadow pond which is popular with kids.
Near the meadow pond and forest trail entrance
EV Charging Station
Electric vehicle charging stations are available for visitors using electric cars.
Near the parking area
Nursing Room
A private nursing room is available for mothers with infants.
Near the restroom and information center
ATM
An ATM is available on-site for visitors to withdraw cash.
Near the entrance and shop area
Pet-Friendly Area
A designated area where pets are allowed, suitable for walking and resting.
Near the forest trail and meadow pond
Insider Tips
Visit during harvest season for fresh seasonal treats and join hands-on workshops to connect with Gojōme’s traditions.
- Best Arrival Time: Visit by 9:30 AM on weekends to secure the day’s fresh batch of milk bread from the bakery, which sells out by 11:00 AM
- Hidden Gems: Check the deli counter between 10:00 AM and 12:00 PM for limited-edition seasonal fruit preserves made from locally grown nashi pears
- Weekend Special: Attend the monthly "Harvest Appreciation Festival" on the second Saturday of each month to sample freshly harvested rice and participate in rice-planting demonstrations
- Must-Try Food: Order the local specialty "Dama-ko Nabe" (a hearty fish and vegetable hotpot) before 1:00 PM, as it is only served during lunch hours and often sells out by 2:00 PM
- Best Beverage Pick: Try the exclusive "Hikari Strawberry Soft Cream" at the café counter—it’s only available from early September to mid-October and is made with strawberries from nearby farms
- Photography Spot: Walk the short path behind the roadside station to the ancient 300-year-old spruce tree in the nature observation garden—best visited on weekdays before 11:00 AM for fewer crowds and better lighting
- Souvenir Tip: Purchase the handcrafted wooden items from the traditional crafts gallery before 3:00 PM, as the selection is refreshed every Monday and includes limited-run pieces not available elsewhere
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March-May): Water iris blooms in late April, and fresh bamboo shoots appear at the market by mid-March.
Summer (June-August): No specific seasonal activities or products mentioned in the content.
Autumn (September-November): Local pears (Shinshu Yatsushiro) available for tasting in early September; autumn harvest festival held in October.
Winter (December-February): No specific seasonal activities or products mentioned in the content.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Offers play areas, child-friendly food, stroller access, and nature trails with seasonal flowers and a pond for kids.
Food Lover Review
Features local specialties like damako hot pot, fresh seasonal produce, artisanal drinks, and diverse regional foods.
Car Camping Review
Has restrooms and vending machines; quiet forest setting; no clear overnight parking policy noted.
Scenic Beauty Review
Surrounded by ancient cedar trees, seasonal flowers, a scenic pond, and peaceful forest walks.