Discover the Heart of Rural Japan at Showa Roadside Station
Nestled in the serene countryside of Minamiboso, Showa Roadside Station blends natural beauty with authentic local charm. Surrounded by lush forests and rolling farmland, it’s a welcoming retreat for travelers seeking connection with nature and community. More than a pit stop, it’s a cultural gateway showcasing the region’s agricultural heritage and seasonal traditions.
Visitors delight in fresh, locally sourced produce, artisanal crafts, and seasonal events that celebrate the rhythm of the land. With a warm café, scenic views, and a strong commitment to sustainability, Showa offers a refreshing escape where every detail reflects the spirit of rural Japan.
Why Visit
Visit Showa roadside station to taste the region’s only handmade ramen made with locally raised pork and a broth simmered for 12 hours using wild mountain herbs. Explore the rare, hand-painted ceramic workshop where artisans craft one-of-a-kind pieces using traditional methods passed down through generations.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor local flavors at Showa roadside station, where fresh, regional dishes warm your soul.
Soba Noodle Stall
そば屋
Specialty
Freshly made soba noodles with local ingredients
A small, casual food stall offering handmade soba noodles served in a simple, rustic setting. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, perfect for a quick, authentic meal.
Local Delicacy Restaurant
地元の味
Specialty
Traditional regional cuisine using seasonal ingredients
A cozy restaurant serving authentic local dishes crafted with seasonal, farm-fresh ingredients. The interior features traditional Japanese decor, creating a welcoming and rustic dining experience.
Farm-to-Table Café
畑からテーブルへ
Specialty
Light meals and pastries made with ingredients from nearby farms
A charming café offering light meals, homemade pastries, and coffee, all made with ingredients sourced directly from local farms. The atmosphere is relaxed and bright, ideal for a leisurely break.
Shopping Highlights
Discover unique crafts and seasonal goods at Showa roadside station, crafted with local pride.
Farmers Market
農産物直売所
A market selling fresh produce, fruits, and vegetables directly from local farms
Products
Must-Try Item
Fresh seasonal strawberries
Bakery
パン屋
A small bakery specializing in handmade bread and pastries using local ingredients
Products
Must-Try Item
Honey and walnut bread
Craft Shop
工芸品店
A shop offering handmade crafts and artisanal goods made by local artisans
Products
Must-Try Item
Hand-thrown pottery
Meat Specialty Store
肉屋
A butcher shop specializing in high-quality, locally raised meat
Products
Must-Try Item
Local beef steak
Dairy Shop
乳製品店
A shop selling fresh dairy products made from local milk
Products
Must-Try Item
Fresh cheese
Souvenir Shop
お土産屋
A shop offering regional souvenirs and local specialty items
Products
Must-Try Item
Local fruit jam
General Store
雑貨店
A general store selling everyday items and local goods
Products
Must-Try Item
Local pickled vegetables
Alcohol Shop
酒屋
A shop specializing in local alcoholic beverages and sake
Products
Must-Try Item
Local sake
Featured Products
Taste the essence of the region with Showa roadside station’s signature specialties and authentic local produce.
Local Strawberry Jam
地元いちごジャム
Sweet jam made from fresh, locally grown strawberries
Hand-Thrown Pottery
手作り陶器
Unique, handmade ceramic pieces crafted by local artisans
Fresh Cheese
新鮮チーズ
Creamy, locally made cheese using fresh milk from nearby farms
Local Beef Steak
地元ビーフステーキ
High-quality beef steak from locally raised cattle
Honey and Walnut Bread
ハチミツとくるみパン
Soft, artisanal bread made with local honey and walnuts
Seasonal Fruit Tart
旬果物タルト
Buttery tart filled with fresh, seasonal fruits
Local Pickled Vegetables
地元漬物
Authentic pickled vegetables made using traditional methods
Local Sake
地元日本酒
Premium sake brewed using local water and rice
Fresh Soba Noodles
新鮮そば
Freshly made soba noodles using locally grown buckwheat
Facilities & Amenities
Relax and recharge at Showa roadside station, offering clean restrooms, parking, and welcoming lounges.
Parking Area
Ample parking space available for visitors and travelers.
Near the main entrance of the roadside station
Restroom
Clean and well-maintained restrooms for public use.
Located near the information center and main building
Free Wi-Fi
Complimentary Wi-Fi access available throughout the roadside station.
Available in all common areas and facilities
Information Center
Staffed desk providing local information, maps, and assistance to visitors.
Main building, near the entrance
Children's Play Area
Outdoor play area with equipment for children to enjoy safely.
Adjacent to the main parking lot
Hot Spring Bath
Traditional Japanese hot spring bath with natural mineral water, open to the public.
Located within the onsen facility building
Bicycle Rental
Bicycles available for rent to explore the surrounding area.
Near the entrance of the station
Nursing Room
Private room equipped for breastfeeding and baby care.
Inside the restroom building, near the main entrance
EV Charging Station
Electric vehicle charging point available for visitors.
Near the main parking area
ATM
Cash machine available for withdrawing money.
Near the information center
Pet Area
Designated space for pets to rest and relieve themselves, with waste disposal facilities.
Outside the main building, near the entrance
Insider Tips
Visit early to enjoy the freshest selections and learn local customs from friendly staff at Showa roadside station.
- Best Arrival Time: Visit between 9:00 AM and 10:30 AM on weekdays to purchase fresh-baked milk bread from the bakery, which is restocked daily and often sells out by midday.
- Hidden Gems: At the deli counter, look for the seasonal Akita-style fermented soybean paste (natto) and locally made pickled vegetables, available only during the spring and autumn months.
- Weekend Special: On Saturdays and Sundays, visit the food truck area near the parking lot between 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM to sample handmade ramen with local pork broth, a limited-time offering not available at other times.
- Best Photo Spot: Take a picture at the cyclamen garden path behind the restrooms, which is illuminated with soft lighting from 6:00 PM to 8:30 PM during the spring bloom season.
- Local Product Tip: Purchase the exclusive "Showa Harvest" jam made from locally grown apples and wild berries at the agricultural sales counter—only available during the harvest season from late August to mid-September.
- Rest Area Shortcut: Use the direct pathway from the parking lot to the restrooms and café—this shortcut bypasses the main entrance and saves 5–7 minutes during peak hours.
- Seasonal Activity: Attend the weekly flower arranging workshop held every Wednesday at 2:00 PM in the community hall, where visitors can create a small bouquet using seasonal blooms from the roadside station’s garden.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March–May): Peak season for canola flower viewing in late April, with fresh bamboo shoots available at the roadside station market.
Summer (June–August): Fresh strawberries harvested in July and August, ideal for picking and enjoying at the roadside station.
Autumn (September–November): Persimmons ripen in October, offering a sweet harvest at the roadside station.
Winter (December–February): Snow-covered landscapes enhance the serene atmosphere, perfect for quiet visits.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Offers play areas, child-friendly food, stroller access, and interactive farm experiences for families.
Food Lover Review
Features diverse local cuisine, fresh produce, artisanal goods, and unique regional specialties.
Car Camping Review
Provides restrooms and vending machines; quiet at night with designated parking for overnight stays.
Scenic Beauty Review
Boasts scenic natural views, excellent photo spots, seasonal landscapes, and a peaceful aesthetic.