Discover the Heart of Shirokawa: Where Tradition Meets Taste
Kinahaiyo Shirokawa, nestled in the serene embrace of the Shikoku Mountains in the heart of Nishiyo City, is more than a roadside station—it’s a celebration of local heritage and craftsmanship. Located along the scenic Oiyo Road, this destination invites travelers to slow down and savor the authentic flavors of the region. At its core is the renowned Shirokawa Natural Ranch, where handcrafted ham, bacon, and sausages are made using a German master’s traditional recipes and 100% locally raised pork.
Guests can sample seasonal specialties like chestnut ice cream made from regional Akiyama chestnuts, enjoy fresh soba and udon at the dedicated food corner, or relax in the tea house with a complimentary cup of matcha. The station also serves as a gateway to nearby natural wonders, including the breathtaking Sanritaki Gorge and the tranquil Baizan Hot Spring. With its warm hospitality, diverse offerings, and deep connection to the land, Kinahaiyo Shirokawa offers a truly unforgettable journey through rural Japan.
Why Visit
Visit Kinahaiyo Shirokawa to taste the region’s only handcrafted ham and sausages made from 100% locally raised pigs using a German master’s traditional recipe—only available here. Savor the signature Kuri Ice (chestnut ice) made from local Shirokawa sweet chestnuts, a seasonal treat not found elsewhere. The roadside station also hosts live demonstrations of traditional katsuobushi (dried bonito) roasting, offering a rare glimpse into authentic regional craftsmanship.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor authentic local flavors at Kinahaiyo Shirokawa roadside station, where handmade dishes and seasonal specialties await.
Tomari
停満里（とまり）
Specialty
Original gourmet dishes made with self-produced ingredients
A restaurant offering a variety of original dishes crafted from locally sourced and self-produced ingredients. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, perfect for enjoying homemade meals in a relaxed setting.
Ippuku Chaya
いっぷく茶屋
Specialty
Takeout snacks and light meals made with local ingredients
A takeout counter offering quick, delicious snacks and light meals made with fresh, regional ingredients. Ideal for travelers seeking a convenient bite on the go.
Shopping Highlights
Discover a curated selection of regional treasures and artisan goods at Kinahaiyo Shirokawa roadside station.
Specialty Products Center
特産品センター
A retail space offering a wide range of locally produced goods, including handmade ham, sausages, and chestnut-based sweets.
Products
Must-Try Item
Handmade Ham and Sausage from Shirokawa Natural Ranch
Chestnut and Local Produce Market
地域のお野菜
A market showcasing fresh, seasonal vegetables and fruits grown in the local region.
Products
Must-Try Item
Local Seasonal Vegetables
Local Sake and Alcohol Corner
地酒コーナー
A dedicated section for locally brewed sake and other alcoholic beverages from the region.
Products
Must-Try Item
Local Craft Sake
Chestnut Confectionery Shop
栗菓子専門店
A specialty shop focused on chestnut-based confections, including traditional sweets and modern treats.
Products
Must-Try Item
Chestnut Tofu Pudding
Featured Products
Explore signature products like handcrafted ham and chestnut sweets, made with pride from local ingredients.
Shirokawa Handmade Ham
しろかわ手作りハム
Premium ham made from 100% locally raised pigs using a unique recipe from a German master. Known for its rich flavor and traditional craftsmanship.
Shirokawa Handmade Sausage
しろかわ手作りソーセージ
Authentic sausage crafted from locally raised pork using a traditional German recipe. No synthetic coloring or preservatives.
Chestnut Tofu Pudding
和栗豆腐プリン
A delicate, creamy dessert made with local chestnuts and smooth tofu, offering a unique blend of sweetness and texture.
Chestnut Ice
和栗氷
A refreshing, naturally sweet ice made from local chestnuts, perfect for summer enjoyment.
Chestnut Croquette
栗コロッケ
Crispy fried croquettes filled with sweet chestnut paste, made using traditional methods and local ingredients.
Chestnut Jam
栗ジャム
Handcrafted jam made from fresh local chestnuts, with no added sugar or preservatives.
Chestnut Bento Set
栗弁当セット
A ready-to-eat bento box featuring local chestnuts, vegetables, and traditional dishes from the region.
Chestnut Sake
和栗酒
A unique sake infused with the natural sweetness of local chestnuts, offering a distinctive flavor profile.
Facilities & Amenities
Enjoy convenient amenities including restrooms, parking, free Wi-Fi, and relaxing rest areas at Kinahaiyo Shirokawa roadside station.
Parking Lot
Available for 20 regular cars, 3 large vehicles, and 1 disabled parking space. Open 24 hours.
Near the main entrance
Toilet
Facilities for both men and women, including one accessible toilet for people with disabilities.
Near the main building
Information Corner
Provides information about local tourism, events, and regional products.
Inside the roadside station
Park
A public park area for relaxation and outdoor activities.
Adjacent to the roadside station
Hot Spring
Natural hot spring with cold water springs, known for its healing properties. Offers a relaxing bathing experience surrounded by cedar trees and the sound of flowing water.
Near the scenic area
Shower
Public shower facilities available for visitors.
Near the hot spring area
EV Charging Station
Electric vehicle charging equipment available on-site.
Near the parking area
Nursing Room
A dedicated space with a changing table for infants and nursing mothers.
Inside the facility
Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi access available throughout the roadside station.
Throughout the premises
Bicycle Rental
Bicycle rental service available for visitors exploring the surrounding area.
Near the entrance
Activities & Experiences
Immerse yourself in hands-on experiences and seasonal events that celebrate the culture and nature of the region.
Ham and Sausage Making Experience
ハム・ソーセージ作り体験
Participants will learn how to make handmade ham and sausages using locally raised pork, following traditional recipes from a German master craftsman.
Duration
60 min
Udon and Soba Making Workshop
うどん・そば作り体験
Guests will experience making handmade udon and soba noodles using local ingredients, learning traditional techniques from local artisans.
Duration
90 min
Chestnut Ice Cream Tasting
和栗氷
Enjoy a seasonal treat made from local chestnuts, offering a unique taste of the region's famous Kinahaiya chestnuts.
Duration
30 min
Chestnut Festival Participation
奥伊予栗祭り
Join the annual chestnut festival celebrating the region's famous Kinahaiya chestnuts with local food, crafts, and cultural performances.
Duration
180 min
Outdoor event; check weather conditions before attending
Local Food and Craft Market Tour
特産品センター
Explore the local specialty products center featuring handmade ham, sausages, chestnut sweets, and regional crafts.
Duration
45 min
Traditional Tea Ceremony Experience
茶の湯体験
Participate in a traditional Japanese tea ceremony at the tea house-style rest area, enjoying locally sourced matcha and sweets.
Duration
60 min
Chestnut Harvesting Activity
和栗収穫体験
Take part in harvesting chestnuts from local trees during the autumn season, learning about sustainable farming practices.
Duration
120 min
Outdoor activity; wear appropriate footwear and clothing
Local Craft and Food Tasting Tour
地元グルメ・工芸体験
Sample and learn about local specialties including handmade ham, chestnut sweets, and regional beverages at the on-site tasting area.
Duration
60 min
Insider Tips
Plan your visit around local festivals and seasonal offerings for the most authentic and memorable experience.
- Best Arrival Time: Arrive by 10:30 AM on weekdays to secure a seat at the tea ceremony-style rest area, as it fills up quickly after lunchtime when visitors from nearby attractions arrive
- Hidden Gems: Visit the handcrafted ham and sausage counter at the specialty products center to sample the German master-trained, 100% local pork ham, which is only available during the annual "O-Iyo Chestnut Festival" in October
- Weekend Special: On Saturdays and Sundays, head to the "Ippuku Tea House" takeout counter by 11:00 AM to get the limited-time "Shirokawa Original Curry Rice Box," which sells out by noon
- Best Food Pairing: Purchase the local chestnut sweets and pair them with a cold drink from the regional sake corner, where you can taste five different local brews including the seasonal "Mountain Spring" variety
- On-Site Experience: Join the free guided tour of the Shirokawa Natural Ranch at 1:30 PM on Saturdays and Sundays to see the traditional curing process of the handmade ham and receive a free sample
- Unique Refreshment: Try the "Waguri Ice" (local chestnut ice cream) at the roadside station’s ice cream stand, available only from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM daily and made with chestnuts harvested from nearby farms
- Parking Tip: Use the designated disabled parking spot near the tea ceremony rest area if visiting after 4:00 PM, as the main parking lot fills up quickly with tour buses from the nearby Mitaki Gorge Natural Park
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March–May): Peak season for fresh bamboo shoots and the annual 'Okuyo Chestnut Festival' in early October.
Summer (June–August): Ideal for cooling off at the nearby Kurokawa Hot Spring and enjoying the shaded trails of Sanritaki Gorge.
Autumn (September–November): Best for harvesting chestnuts and experiencing the 'Okuyo Chestnut Festival' in October.
Winter (December–February): Quiet visits to enjoy the serene mountain views and hot spring relaxation.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Kinahaiyo Shirokawa offers stroller-friendly pathways, a dedicated playground, and family facilities including nursing rooms and changing tables. Children enjoy interactive experiences like observing ham production and visiting nearby natural parks, enhancing educational value.
Food Lover Review
The roadside station features diverse dining options with high-quality local specialties like handmade ham and soba made from regional ingredients. Fresh produce, artisanal goods, and unique items such as chestnut ice cream elevate the culinary experience.
Car Camping Review
While the station provides clean restrooms and vending machines, it lacks dedicated camping facilities. Overnight parking is not explicitly permitted, and the area is not quiet enough for extended stays despite nearby camping sites.
Scenic Beauty Review
Surrounded by lush mountains and the Misoyogawa Canyon, the roadside station offers breathtaking natural views and excellent photo opportunities. Seasonal landscapes and serene atmosphere enhance its scenic appeal.