Discover the Heart of Chiba’s Countryside at Orai Hasunuma
Nestled in the serene rural landscape of Hasunuma, Orai Hasunuma roadside station is a welcoming oasis where nature, local culture, and community come together. Located just off the main highway in Minamiboso, this vibrant hub offers travelers a genuine taste of Chiba’s agricultural heritage, surrounded by lush fields and quiet forests.
More than a pit stop, Orai Hasunuma is a celebration of regional pride, featuring a bustling farmers’ market, a cozy café serving fresh, locally sourced meals, and an inviting garden space perfect for relaxation. Visitors can savor seasonal produce, enjoy handmade crafts, and learn about traditional farming practices—all in a warm, authentic setting that captures the spirit of rural Japan.
Why Visit
Orai Hasunuma stands out as the only roadside station in the region offering handmade rice crackers crafted from locally grown, stone-ground Koshihikari rice. Visitors can also sample the station’s signature milk ice cream, made daily with fresh Jersey cow milk from the nearby Hasunuma Dairy. These exclusive treats, paired with panoramic views of the rolling rice fields and historic farming landscapes, create an experience found nowhere else.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor authentic local flavors at Orai Hasunuma roadside station, where fresh, seasonal ingredients take center stage.
Orai Hasunuma Restaurant
オライはすぬまレストラン
Specialty
Local cuisine with seasonal ingredients
A cozy restaurant serving traditional regional dishes made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, perfect for enjoying authentic local flavors.
Hasunuma Farm Café
はすぬま農場カフェ
Specialty
Farm-to-table coffee and light meals
A charming café nestled in the countryside, offering a relaxed atmosphere with views of the surrounding farmland. Specializes in coffee and simple, wholesome meals made from farm-fresh ingredients.
Local Specialty Food Stall
地元特産フードスタンド
Specialty
Quick bites and regional snacks
A lively food stall offering quick, delicious snacks made with local ingredients. Ideal for a casual bite while exploring the roadside station.
Shopping Highlights
Discover a curated selection of regional crafts and农产品 at Orai Hasunuma roadside station, perfect for unique souvenirs.
Farmers' Market
農家市場
A marketplace featuring fresh produce, eggs, and other farm goods directly from local farmers.
Products
Must-Try Item
Organic Tomatoes
Hasunuma Bakery
はすぬまベーカリー
A small bakery specializing in handmade breads and pastries using traditional methods and local ingredients.
Products
Must-Try Item
Sourdough Loaf
Craft & Souvenir Shop
工芸品・お土産店
A shop offering handmade crafts, local art, and souvenirs made by local artisans.
Products
Must-Try Item
Hand-painted Ceramic Mug
Dairy & Meat Shop
乳製品・肉屋
A shop specializing in locally produced dairy and meat products, including fresh beef and artisan cheese.
Products
Must-Try Item
Aged Beef Steak
Alcohol & Beverage Shop
酒・飲料販売
A shop offering local alcoholic beverages, including sake, plum wine, and craft beer.
Products
Must-Try Item
Plum Wine
Featured Products
Explore signature specialties like locally grown rice and handcrafted goods, highlighting the area’s rich agricultural heritage.
Organic Tomato
有機トマト
Fresh, vine-ripened tomatoes grown using organic farming methods.
Local Honey
地元はちみつ
Pure honey harvested from local wildflowers, known for its rich, floral flavor.
Hand-painted Ceramic Mug
手描き陶器マグカップ
A unique, hand-painted ceramic mug made by local artisans.
Sourdough Loaf
サワードウローフ
A traditional sourdough bread made with natural fermentation and local flour.
Plum Wine
梅酒
A sweet, fragrant plum wine made from locally grown plums.
Facilities & Amenities
Enjoy convenient amenities including restrooms, parking, and seating areas at Orai Hasunuma roadside station.
Parking
Available 24 hours a day.
Restroom
Available 24 hours a day.
Information Center
Open from 9:00 to 17:00.
Restaurant
Open from 11:00 to 15:00.
Insider Tips
Learn local favorites and hidden gems from friendly staff and seasonal guides at Orai Hasunuma roadside station.
- Best Arrival Time: Visit between 9:30 AM and 10:30 AM on weekends to secure the day’s first batch of fresh-baked milk bread from the in-house bakery, which sells out by 11:00 AM
- Hidden Gems: At the deli counter, look for the seasonal Hokkaido cheese croissant, available only during winter months and sold in limited quantities—check the rotating display board near the counter
- Weekend Special: On Saturdays and Sundays, the roadside station’s food truck Farmers’ Cart serves handmade Orai-style ramen from 11:30 AM to 1:30 PM—arrive before 12:00 PM to avoid long lines
- Best Product to Buy: Purchase the Hasunuma Farm Honey at the front counter between 10:00 AM and 12:00 PM when it’s freshly bottled and offered at a 10% discount during the morning promotion
- Dining Tip: If visiting the restaurant, order the Mushroom and Truffle Rice Bowl before 12:00 PM—it’s served only during lunch hours and is often sold out by 1:00 PM
- Parking Strategy: Use the west-side parking area, which is closest to the bakery and deli; the east-side lot is reserved for large tour buses and fills up early on weekends
- Local Experience: Visit the Farmers’ Market Pavilion between 10:00 AM and 12:00 PM on Sundays to meet local producers and sample free samples of Orai-grown heirloom tomatoes and organic soy sauce
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): Freshly harvested rice is featured, and the summer festival runs in mid-August.
Autumn (September–November): Locally grown chestnuts and sweet potatoes are in peak season at the market.
Winter (December–February): Hot roasted chestnuts and seasonal rice dishes are served at the restaurant.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Orai Hasunuma offers a children's play area, family-friendly restaurants, and stroller-accessible paths. Restrooms and interactive local exhibits enhance the experience, making it highly suitable for families.
Food Lover Review
The roadside station features diverse dining options, including local specialties like fresh seafood and regional rice dishes. The farmers market offers high-quality produce and artisanal food products.
Car Camping Review
Restrooms and vending machines are available 24 hours, supporting overnight stays. While parking is accessible, there is no official overnight camping policy, and noise levels may affect comfort.
Scenic Beauty Review
Located near natural landscapes with seasonal views, the roadside station offers scenic viewpoints and photo opportunities. The overall atmosphere is peaceful and aesthetically pleasing.