Station Hiyoshi Dream Production Area

Discover the Heart of Rural Japan at Hiyoshi Dream Production Area

Nestled along the pristine waters of the last clear river in Japan, the Hiyoshi Dream Production Area lies in the scenic heart of Kii District, nestled between lush forests and fertile farmland. More than a roadside stop, this vibrant hub celebrates the legacy of farmer hero Saburōemon and the community spirit of "Oni Town" with its iconic "Yuki Hime" monument. Visitors enjoy fresh local produce at the lively open-air market, sample regional specialties like yuzu, shiitake mushrooms, and wild game, and savor handcrafted bread and Baumkuchen from the on-site bakery.

The station offers a rich blend of culture, nature, and recreation—from guided nature walks and camping to kayaking on the tranquil river. With a museum, hands-on experience facilities, and seasonal festivals like the Saburōemon Festival and the Autumn Festival, every visit feels like a journey into Japan’s rural soul.

Nestled along the pristine waters of the final stretch of the Shikoku River’s source system, Hiyoshi Dream Production Area stands out as the only roadside station in the region where you can savor freshly baked, handcrafted bread and Baumkuchen made daily in an on-site bakery, using locally milled flour. It’s also the sole location where visitors can experience the legendary "Yukihime" demon monument and attend the rare, historically rooted "Busawomen Festival" in August, featuring a living reenactment of a peasant uprising. The station’s seasonal open-air market offers only farm-fresh vegetables harvested that very morning by local farmers, making it a true taste of the land’s unfiltered bounty.

• Best Arrival Time: Visit by 9:30 AM on weekdays to secure a seat at the bakery counter, where fresh-baked milk bread is available only until 11:00 AM and often sells out by then.

• Hidden Gems: Look for the limited-time seasonal breads at the bakery counter—on the first Monday of each month, a special "Yuzu Sourdough Loaf" is released, available only until noon.

• Weekend Special: On weekends, visit the open-air market between 8:00 AM and 12:00 PM to purchase fresh-picked yuzu and shiitake mushrooms directly from local farmers who set up stalls early.

• Restaurant Tip: If you're visiting during the renovation period, order at the temporary restaurant booth, as only a limited menu is available—prioritize the handcrafted baukuchen, which is consistently sold out by 1:30 PM.

• Avoid the Ice Cream Gap: Do not plan to buy ice cream after March 31, as the ice cream stand is closed for renovations until the end of the year, and no replacement is available at the roadside station.

• Best View Time: Arrive at the observation point just after 4:00 PM on weekdays to catch the best light for photos of the Yuki Hime monument and the surrounding river valley, especially when the sun hits the water at the bend of the Shimanto River.

• Event Planning: If you’re visiting in August, plan to arrive by 1:00 PM on August 14 to join the main procession of the Takezō Furusato Matsuri, which begins at 2:00 PM and includes the traditional parade of farmers and the famous Yuki Hime statue.

Spring (March–May): Canola flowers bloom in late March to April, and fresh bamboo shoots are available at the market.

Summer (June–August): The annual 8月14武左衛門ふるさとまつり celebrates with a procession, fireworks, and cool river activities at 节安ふれあいの森.

Autumn (September–November): The 11月10秋祭り features the lively牛鬼 parade and family-friendly events amid vibrant fall foliage.

Winter (December–February): The roadside station remains open year-round, with seasonal treats like handmade bread and local produce available.