Station Kyowa

Discover the Heart of Rural Japan at Kyowa Roadside Station

Nestled in the serene landscape of Minamiboso, Kyowa Roadside Station is a welcoming oasis where nature, culture, and local flavor converge. Located along a scenic stretch of highway, it serves as a vital link between travelers and the authentic rhythms of rural life. Surrounded by lush forests and rolling farmland, the station offers a peaceful retreat from the bustle of city travel.

What sets Kyowa apart is its deep connection to local agriculture and craftsmanship. Visitors can savor fresh, seasonal produce from nearby farms, sample handmade dairy products, and explore artisanal goods crafted by regional artisans. The station also features a vibrant community space where local events and seasonal markets bring people together, making it more than just a stop—it’s a celebration of place, people, and purpose.

Kyowa roadside station is home to the region’s only on-site cheese cellar, where visitors can sample aged Gouda made from local pasture-fed cow milk. Just steps away, the seasonal cherry blossom jam—crafted from wild blossoms harvested in nearby hills—is available only during spring. These rare, hyper-local specialties, paired with panoramic views of the Kiso River valley, create an experience found nowhere else.

• Best Arrival Time: Arrive by 9:30 AM on weekends to secure a fresh loaf of the signature milk bread from the on-site bakery, which sells out by 11:00 AM
• Hidden Gems: Visit the deli counter between 10:00 AM and 11:00 AM to find the limited-edition seasonal pickled vegetables made with local cucumber and mountain herbs
• Weekend Special: On Saturdays and Sundays, the local farmers' market stalls open at 8:00 AM and feature the only available supply of Kyowa-grown heirloom tomatoes until noon
• Must-Try Product: Purchase the Kyowa Farm Fresh Cheese from the dairy counter before 1:00 PM, as it is only restocked once daily at 11:30 AM
• Parking Strategy: Use the far-right parking lot near the entrance to the main building to avoid congestion when entering the food hall during peak hours
• Best Photo Spot: Stand at the edge of the wooden bridge overlooking the river path just after 4:00 PM to capture the golden hour light reflecting off the water and the station’s red-roofed pavilion
• Local Experience: Join the free guided tasting session at 2:00 PM on Fridays and Sundays to sample the regional rice crackers and learn about their traditional preparation method

Spring (March-May): Canola flowers bloom in late March to April, and fresh bamboo shoots are available at the roadside station market.

Summer (June-August): Local strawberries are harvested in June, and the roadside station hosts evening food events.

Autumn (September-November): Chestnuts are harvested in October, and the roadside station features seasonal harvest festivals.

Winter (December-February): Hot roasted chestnuts and seasonal soba noodles are available during the winter months.