Discover the Heart of Rural Japan at Hota Elementary School Roadside Station
Nestled in the scenic hills of Minamiboso, Hota Elementary School roadside station is a vibrant cultural hub born from a former school. Once a classroom, it now thrives as a community space where urban and rural life meet. Visitors enjoy local dairy and seasonal harvests, participate in hands-on workshops like jam-making, and explore creative art installations. With seasonal events like the Seafood Festival and unique lodging experiences, it’s more than a stop—it’s a journey into Japan’s rural soul.
Why Visit
Visit Hota Elementary School roadside station to stay in a restored schoolhouse with unique lodging, enjoy seasonal events like the Fish Festival, savor local specialties such as rosehip jam, and explore vibrant blackboard art and autumnal harvests.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor authentic local flavors at Hota Elementary School roadside station, where seasonal ingredients meet heartfelt hospitality.
Hota Elementary School
保田小学校
Specialty
Local snacks and seasonal treats
A roadside station offering a variety of local snacks and seasonal treats, perfect for travelers looking to enjoy regional flavors.
Shopping Highlights
Discover unique crafts and regional treasures at Hota Elementary School roadside station, crafted with care and pride.
Kyonan Market
きょなん楽市
A local market featuring fresh seasonal produce, handmade goods, and regional specialties from the Kannon area.
Products
Must-Try Item
Roasted chestnuts
Hota Elementary School Souvenir Shop
保田小学校おみやげ屋
A shop offering unique souvenirs and memorabilia from the former Hota Elementary School, including handmade crafts and local products.
Products
Must-Try Item
Blackboard art postcards
Hota Elementary School Craft Market
保田小学校クラフト市
A craft market showcasing handmade items from local artisans, including seasonal and traditional crafts.
Products
Must-Try Item
Blackboard art
Featured Products
Taste the essence of the region with signature specialties like roselles, chestnuts, and seasonal harvests from Hota Elementary School roadside station.
Roasted Chestnuts
きょなん楽市
Freshly roasted chestnuts harvested from the local forests, known for their rich, sweet flavor and warm texture.
Rosehip Jam
ローゼルジャム
A naturally sweet jam made from rosehip berries, known for its tangy flavor and health benefits.
Blackboard Art Postcards
黒板アートポストカード
Unique postcards featuring original blackboard art from the Hota Elementary School art project, capturing the charm of the school's creative spirit.
Hota Elementary School T-shirt
保田小学校Tシャツ
A limited-edition T-shirt featuring the school's iconic blackboard art and logo, perfect for fans of the venue.
Hota Elementary School Notebook
保田小学校ノート
A handmade notebook featuring blackboard-style designs and the school's original artwork, ideal for travelers and collectors.
Activities & Experiences
Engage in hands-on workshops and seasonal events that bring the spirit of the community to life at Hota Elementary School roadside station.
Jam Making Workshop with Roselle
ローゼルジャム作り体験
Learn how to make jam using roselles, a type of hibiscus flower, in a hands-on workshop
Duration
90 min
Blackboard Art Experience
黒板アート体験
Create your own artwork on a blackboard, inspired by the vibrant murals at the roadside station
Duration
60 min
Stay Overnight at Hota Elementary
保田小に泊まろう
Stay overnight in the former elementary school building with special themed lodging plans
Duration
480 min
Available year-round, including rainy days
Fish Festival
さかな祭り
Enjoy a seasonal festival featuring fresh fish and seafood, with local food stalls and activities
Duration
360 min
Outdoor events may be affected by rain; check for updates
Autumn Flavor Experience
秋の味覚
Taste seasonal autumn flavors such as chestnuts and persimmons available at the roadside station
Duration
30 min
Available indoors regardless of weather
Insider Tips
Maximize your visit with local insights and hidden gems shared by those who know Hota Elementary School roadside station best.
- Best Arrival Time: Arrive by 8:30 AM on weekdays to secure parking and avoid the midday rush, especially during the "Sakanamatsuri" (Fish Festival) from November 1–30, 2025.
- Hidden Gems: Visit the deli counter near the entrance during weekdays before 10:00 AM to find freshly made lo-cal rosehip jam, a seasonal specialty not listed on the main menu.
- Weekend Bonus: On Sundays, the "Blackboard Art Department" hosts free 30-minute workshops from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM; bring your own sketch or request a custom design on the school’s original blackboard.
- Photo Opportunities: Capture the best shots at the front gate between 3:00 PM and 5:00 PM when the autumn leaves on the school’s path cast golden light—especially striking during the "Sakanamatsuri" season with festive decorations.
- Money Savers: Use the "Kyonan Market" discount card available at the front desk; it grants 10% off all local produce and 15% off the "Sakanamatsuri" food stalls.
- Avoiding Crowds: Skip Saturday afternoons and Sundays after 1:00 PM; instead, visit between 1:00 PM and 3:00 PM on weekdays to enjoy quieter spaces and full access to workshops.
- Closure Alerts: Check the official website or Facebook page daily, as temporary closures due to seasonal events (like the "Sakanamatsuri") or staff training can occur without prior notice—especially in November and December.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March-May): Late March to April features vibrant canola flower fields perfect for photography and seasonal bamboo shoots available at the market.
Summer (June-August): No specific seasonal offerings mentioned for this period.
Autumn (September-November): October brings the Roosel jam workshop, silver apricot harvest, and the annual Sakanamatsuri seafood festival.
Winter (December-February): The "Hota Small School Stay" lodging program runs from November to March, ideal for winter visits with seasonal events.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Offers play areas, interactive workshops, and kid-friendly food options with strong educational and creative activities.
Food Lover Review
Features local specialties, fresh produce, seasonal harvests, and unique food experiences like jam-making workshops.
Car Camping Review
Provides ample parking and basic facilities, suitable for overnight stays with moderate comfort and quiet access.
Scenic Beauty Review
Boasts scenic views, seasonal landscapes, and picturesque photo spots with a serene, natural atmosphere.