Discover the Heart of Japan’s Dairy Legacy at Oirase Roadside Station
Nestled in the lush landscapes of Minamiboso, Oirase Roadside Station stands as a celebration of Japan’s dairy heritage, born from the region’s pioneering farming roots. Surrounded by rolling farmland and serene forests, it’s a vibrant hub where local farmers share their craftsmanship. Visitors savor fresh, handcrafted dairy products, enjoy seasonal harvest festivals, and connect with the rhythms of rural life—making every visit a taste of tradition and natural beauty.
Why Visit
Oirase roadside station stands out for its exclusive seasonal harvest festival, where visitors can taste freshly pressed wild berry juice from the nearby Oirase Forest and sample rare fermented soybean paste made using traditional methods passed down by local farmers.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor fresh, seasonal flavors at Oirase roadside station.
Oirase Soba House
奥入瀬そば家
Specialty
Freshly made buckwheat noodles with local ingredients
A cozy, traditional-style restaurant specializing in handmade soba noodles. The atmosphere is warm and rustic, with wooden interiors and views of the surrounding nature. Perfect for a relaxing meal with a focus on seasonal, locally sourced ingredients.
Forest View Cafe
森の景色カフェ
Specialty
Artisan coffee and homemade pastries
A charming café nestled in the forest with large windows offering panoramic views of the natural surroundings. Known for its relaxed ambiance and high-quality coffee made from locally roasted beans, paired with freshly baked treats.
Oirase River Food Stall
奥入瀬川フードスタンド
Specialty
Quick local snacks and street food
A lively food stall offering fast, casual eats inspired by regional flavors. The atmosphere is energetic and welcoming, ideal for a quick bite while exploring the roadside station.
Shopping Highlights
Discover local crafts and regional treasures at Oirase roadside station.
Oirase Local Market
奥入瀬地元市場
A seasonal market featuring fresh produce, vegetables, and fruits grown in the Oirase region. Offers a direct connection between local farmers and visitors.
Products
Must-Try Item
Oirase-grown heirloom tomatoes
Forest Bakery
森のベーカリー
A small bakery specializing in artisan breads and pastries made with natural ingredients and traditional methods.
Products
Must-Try Item
Honey Walnut Loaf
Oirase Craft Shop
奥入瀬クラフトショップ
A shop dedicated to handmade crafts and local art, featuring items made by regional artisans.
Products
Must-Try Item
Hand-carved wooden spoon set
Oirase Meat & Dairy
奥入瀬肉と乳製品
A specialty shop offering premium locally raised meats and dairy products, including beef, pork, and fresh milk.
Products
Must-Try Item
Oirase Grass-Fed Beef
Oirase Souvenir Store
奥入瀬お土産店
A gift shop offering a wide range of souvenirs and local products from the Oirase region.
Products
Must-Try Item
Oirase Nature Postcard Set
Oirase Alcohol Corner
奥入瀬アルコールコーナー
A dedicated shop for local alcoholic beverages, including sake, craft beer, and fruit liqueurs.
Products
Must-Try Item
Oirase Mountain Sake
Featured Products
Taste signature specialties made with mountain and forest ingredients.
Oirase Soba Noodles (500g)
奥入瀬そば粉 500g
Premium buckwheat flour made from locally grown grains, ideal for making authentic soba noodles at home.
Oirase Forest Honey (250g)
奥入瀬森の蜂蜜 250g
Pure, raw honey harvested from wildflowers in the Oirase forest, known for its rich, floral flavor.
Oirase River Stone Salt
奥入瀬川の石塩
Hand-harvested salt from the Oirase riverbed, with a mineral-rich taste and natural texture.
Oirase Nature Sake Set
奥入瀬自然の酒セット
A curated set of three local sake varieties, each reflecting the unique terroir of the Oirase region.
Oirase Forest Tea (100g)
奥入瀬森の茶 100g
Hand-picked green tea leaves from the shaded forests of Oirase, offering a smooth, refreshing taste.
Facilities & Amenities
Enjoy comfortable rest stops and convenient amenities at Oirase roadside station.
Parking Lot
Provides ample parking space for visitors and tourists.
Near the main entrance
Restrooms
Clean and accessible restrooms available for public use.
Inside the main building
Free Wi-Fi
Complimentary Wi-Fi access available throughout the roadside station.
Throughout the premises
Information Center
Staffed desk offering local information, maps, and assistance to visitors.
Near the entrance
Children's Play Area
A safe and fun play area for children with various toys and equipment.
Adjacent to the outdoor plaza
Hot Spring Bath
Traditional hot spring bath with natural mineral water, open to the public.
On-site, near the scenic garden
Bicycle Rental
Bicycles available for rent to explore the surrounding area.
Near the parking lot
Nursing Room
Private room equipped for breastfeeding and baby care.
Inside the main building
Electric Vehicle Charging Station
Charging points for electric vehicles, available for public use.
Near the parking lot
ATM
Cash machine available for withdrawing money.
Near the information center
Pet-Friendly Area
Designated space for pets with water and waste disposal facilities.
Outside the main building, near the garden
Activities & Experiences
Join seasonal workshops and hands-on experiences at Oirase roadside station.
Autumn Harvest Festival at Oku-Naruse Romanchi Park
奥入瀬ろまんパーク秋の収穫祭
Participate in a seasonal autumn harvest festival featuring local produce, traditional crafts, and cultural performances.
Duration
120 min
Outdoor event; check weather conditions before attending.
Insider Tips
Learn local secrets and smart visits to make the most of Oirase roadside station.
- Best Arrival Time: Arrive by 9:30 AM on weekends to secure a seat at the Oirase Farmers Market stall, where freshly picked seasonal vegetables from local farms are sold first-come, first-served.
- Hidden Gems: Visit the small corner near the restrooms to sample free portions of fermented soybean paste (natto) made with locally grown soybeans—available only during the autumn harvest festival.
- Weekend Special: On Saturdays and Sundays between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM, the roadside station’s kitchen hosts live cooking demos using ingredients from the on-site vegetable garden, with recipes available in the digital kiosk.
- Must-Try Product: Purchase the limited-edition Oirase Maple Syrup directly from the counter labeled “Seasonal Specials” — it’s made from sap collected from trees within 5 kilometers of the station and only available from October to November.
- Best Photo Spot: Take a picture at the wooden bench next to the red maple tree near the entrance, which is lit up with warm string lights from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM during the autumn harvest festival.
- Local Experience: Join the free 10-minute guided tour of the on-site herb garden at 2:00 PM on weekdays—led by a local gardener who shares how traditional herbs are used in regional cooking.
- Practical Tip: Use the free Wi-Fi at the information desk to access the real-time update on the bakery’s next batch of Oirase-style chestnut rolls, which are baked only at 1:00 PM and 3:00 PM daily.
Best Time to Visit
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): Blueberries ripen from July to August, offering U-pick opportunities and fresh berry desserts at the cafe.
Autumn (September–November): The Oirase Romon Park Autumn Harvest Festival takes place in October, showcasing seasonal produce and local crafts.
Winter (December–February): Limited seasonal offerings; visit for quiet scenery and nearby hot spring access.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Offers play areas, kid-friendly food, stroller access, and seasonal activities for children.
Food Lover Review
Features diverse local specialties, fresh produce, and artisan food from regional farms.
Car Camping Review
Provides ample parking and basic facilities; overnight stays allowed with limited comfort.
Scenic Beauty Review
Surrounded by lush forest and river views with excellent photo spots and seasonal appeal.