Station Oyu

Discover the Heart of Aomori’s Natural and Cultural Heritage

Oyu roadside station stands at the gateway to the ancient Jomon heritage and revitalizing natural beauty of Kakunodate in Akita Prefecture. Nestled in the quiet embrace of forests and mountains, this roadside station blends history, sustainability, and local craftsmanship into a unique travel experience. Designed with a deep respect for nature, the station’s architecture reflects the philosophy of renowned architect Kengo Kuma, creating a harmonious space where visitors can pause and connect with the land.

At Oyu, guests can savor regional treasures like Kakunodate Apple Gummy, made with real apple juice and celebrated as a champion of local cuisine. The station also serves as a cultural hub, promoting the seasonal "Towada-Hachimantai Four Seasons Festival Line" via bicycle and train, linking travelers to the region’s rich traditions. From local crafts to seasonal food, Oyu celebrates the spirit of Akita with authenticity and warmth.

Oyu is the only roadside station in the region where you can savor handmade apple gum made from fresh Aomori apple juice, a local favorite that won the Youth Encouragement Award at the Akita Food Champion contest. More uniquely, it’s the gateway to the Jomon Oyu World Cultural Heritage site, where visitors can explore ancient stone tools and sacred burial mounds near the famed Oyu hot springs. This is the only place where you can experience both a 19th-century-style cycling train route and a living connection to Japan’s Jomon era.

• Best Arrival Time: Visit between 9:30 AM and 10:30 AM on weekends to catch the fresh batch of Oyu’s signature baked milk bread, which is only available at the on-site bakery until 11:00 AM and often sells out by noon.
• Hidden Gems: Check the deli counter near the main entrance for the limited-edition "Kakko Apple Gum" — it’s only available in small batches and is sold exclusively at Oyu’s roadside station, not through the online store.
• Weekend Special: On Saturdays, visit the outdoor food stall between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM to sample free tasting portions of "Jomon Oyu" seasonal stew, made with ingredients from local farmers and only served during the festival season.
• Must-Try Product: Purchase the "Jomon Oyu" hot spring mineral water at the gift shop — it’s bottled directly from the spring on-site and is the only version available with the official World Cultural Heritage label.
• Best Photo Spot: Head to the rooftop terrace at 3:00 PM on weekdays to capture the best light over the surrounding mountains, where the architecture designed by Kenzo Tange-inspired elements reflect the natural landscape.
• Timing Tip: Arrive by 12:15 PM on Sundays to secure a seat at the Oyu Café before the 1:00 PM lunch rush, as the café only serves its seasonal rice bowl dish until 1:30 PM.
• Local Insight: Use the free Wi-Fi at the information desk to access the official "Kakko Apple Gum" QR code, which unlocks exclusive discount coupons for the online store — but only available between 10:00 AM and 12:00 PM daily.

Spring (March–May): Late March to April brings peak canola flower viewing and bamboo shoot harvests at Oyu roadside station.

Summer (June–August): July features the Tenkawa Hachiman-Hei Four Seasons Festival, with bike-train tours on the Hanawa Line.

Autumn (September–November): October offers fresh apple harvests and the chance to try Akita apple gum made from local juice.

Winter (December–February): December sees the first snow, creating serene views around the hot spring area.