Station Kami-ko-ani

Discover the Hidden Gems of Northern Japan

Kami-ko-ani roadside station lies along National Route 285 in the serene heart of Kamikoani Village, nestled between lush forests and fertile farmland. More than a rest stop, it’s a celebration of local heritage, showcasing the region’s prized specialties like edible hōzuki and kohaze, renowned for their antioxidant power and vibrant flavor. Visitors can savor seasonal delicacies, from fresh mountain vegetables and wild mushrooms to unique desserts made with local ingredients. The station also serves as a gateway to cultural experiences, including seasonal exhibitions and nearby natural wonders like Yamafuji Hot Spring.

Kami-ko-ani is home to the only roadside station in Japan where you can taste the region’s signature edible hoozuki—bright orange berries with a tangy, tomato-meets-plum flavor—and its rare, antioxidant-rich cousin, kohaze, used in handcrafted jams and a unique non-alcoholic amazake.

• Best Arrival Time: Visit between 9:00 and 10:00 AM on weekdays to secure the first pick of fresh wild mushrooms, especially the seasonal maitake and matsutake, which arrive daily and sell out quickly.

• Hidden Gems: Look for the handcrafted "Kohaze Jam" and "Edible Hoozuki Confiture" at the specialty goods counter—these are made in-house using local ingredients and are available only during peak harvest seasons.

• Weekend Special: On weekends, check the "Koani Car" mobile food truck, which sets up near the entrance between 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM, offering local favorites like homemade rolled sushi and pickled eggplant.

• Seasonal Must-Try: Purchase the "Edible Hoozuki" fruit in person during August and September when it’s freshly harvested—this orange-colored fruit, known for its tangy, tomato-like flavor, is sold only in limited quantities and often sells out by midday.

• Specialty Beverage Tip: Try the limited-edition "Hoozuki Craft Amazake" (a non-alcoholic sweet rice drink) only available during summer months; it’s a collaboration between local producers and is sold exclusively at Kami-ko-ani’s shop.

• Photography & Souvenir Tip: Visit the "Kami-ko-ani Information Rest Room" during the current photo exhibition to view and purchase postcards featuring award-winning photos of the village—these include rare shots of the endemic "Koani Chidori" flower, with a special edition postcard featuring the village mascot "Koapyon."

• Off-Peak Shopping Advantage: For the best selection of seasonal produce like new rice, sweet potatoes, and chestnuts, visit on Tuesday or Wednesday when the inventory is most abundant and before weekend crowds arrive.

Spring (March-May): Peak season for the rare mountain flower Coani Chidori (early May) and fresh mountain vegetables available at the market.

Summer (June-August): Fresh tomatoes, melons, and Taiwan's Aiweng mangoes arrive in mid-July, with summer events like the local festival held in August.

Autumn (September-November): Prime time for wild mushrooms, chestnuts, sweet potatoes, and newly harvested rice, with seasonal specialties like hoozuki and kohaze in full season.

Winter (December-February): Limited fresh produce, but enjoy seasonal drinks like hoozuki and kohaze cider, and visit the nearby mountain hot spring.