Step Into a Prehistoric Playground at Dinosaur Valley Katsuyama
Nestled in the heart of Katsuyama, a town celebrated for its rich fossil heritage, Dinosaur Valley Katsuyama is more than just a roadside station—it’s a vibrant gateway to nature, local culture, and unforgettable experiences. Located just minutes from the Chubu Jukan Expressway, it serves as a convenient stop for travelers exploring the scenic landscapes of northern Fukui Prefecture.
What sets this roadside station apart is its playful fusion of paleontology and regional charm. Visitors can savor farm-fresh cuisine at Nine-Headed Dragon Terrace, shop for unique souvenirs at Raptor Souvenir Shop, and enjoy seasonal events like the thrilling Dinosaur Fair and autumn harvest festival. Highlights include the whimsical Fuki-Raptor chocolate cookie and handmade treats like matcha mochi and cheese-filled madeline burgers—each crafted with pride by local youth. With its 24-hour restrooms, outdoor event space, and a welcoming atmosphere, Dinosaur Valley Katsuyama is a must-visit destination for families and curious travelers alike.
Why Visit
Dinosaur Valley Katsuyama stands out as the only roadside station in Japan where you can savor the region’s famed yama salmon sushi, crafted from locally raised, low-odor, richly flavored fish. Its signature attraction is the exclusive Fukuirauputoru chocolate cookie—sold only here—where a giant dinosaur-shaped container opens to reveal a generous portion of crisp, dark chocolate cookies. Visitors also experience hands-on creativity through the annual "14-Year-Old Challenge," where local middle schoolers design and sell unique products like cheese-filled madeline burgers and matcha-infused mochi, offering a rare glimpse into youth-driven local entrepreneurship.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor local flavors with scenic views at Dinosaur Valley Katsuyama's dining terrace.
Kuzuryu Terrace
九頭竜テラス
Specialty
Local cuisine using regional ingredients with views of the natural beauty of Oku-Echizen
A dining area offering local dishes made from fresh, regional ingredients, set against the backdrop of the natural scenery of Oku-Echizen. The atmosphere is relaxed and scenic, ideal for enjoying authentic local flavors.
Shopping Highlights
Discover unique souvenirs and regional goods at Dinosaur Valley Katsuyama's souvenir shop.
Souvenir Shop Raptor
スーベニアショップ ラプトル 道の駅店
Sells souvenirs from Katsuyama City and surrounding areas, including agricultural products, original roadside station goods, and dinosaur-themed merchandise.
Products
Must-Try Item
Fukiraptor Chocolate Cookie
Featured Products
Try signature treats like chocolate cookies and matcha mochi, crafted with local pride.
Fukiraptor Chocolate Cookie
フクイラプトルショコラクッキー
A large, delicious chocolate cookie shaped like a Fukiraptor dinosaur. The cookie is crispy and highly addictive, perfect for a satisfying treat.
Madreya Cheese Burger
マドレーヌチーズバーガー
A unique burger featuring a soft, sweet Madreya cake layered with a rich, slightly sweet cheese filling, offering a satisfying and indulgent bite.
Yubin O-matcha Mochi
羽二重お抹茶餅
A delicate mochi made with sweet red bean paste wrapped in a soft yubin mochi, dusted with high-quality matcha powder. Light and balanced in sweetness, perfect for adults.
Yamano Salmon Rice Mix
勝山 やまのサーモン炊き込みご飯の素
A premium rice mix made with high-quality, low-odor salmon from Katsuyama. It captures the rich, delicate flavor of the salmon in every bite.
Facilities & Amenities
Enjoy convenient amenities including restrooms, baby beds, and free Wi-Fi at Dinosaur Valley Katsuyama.
Parking
The roadside station has a parking area with space for 11 large vehicles and 88 regular cars.
At the roadside station premises
Restroom
Toilets and rest facilities are available and can be used 24 hours a day.
Throughout the roadside station premises
Wi-Fi
Free wireless LAN is available at the roadside station.
Throughout the roadside station premises
Information Center
The roadside station provides a tourist information center for visitors.
At the roadside station premises
Souvenir Shop
The roadside station features a souvenir shop called 'Raptor' that sells local souvenirs, agricultural products, original roadside station goods, and dinosaur-themed items.
At the roadside station premises
Restaurant
The roadside station includes a restaurant called 'Koutouru Terrace' that serves local cuisine made from regional ingredients.
At the roadside station premises
EV Charging Station
An electric vehicle charging facility is available at the roadside station.
At the roadside station premises
ATM
An ATM is available for visitors' convenience.
At the roadside station premises
Nursing Room
A nursing room is available for mothers with infants.
At the roadside station premises
Play Area
An outdoor exchange area is available for events and activities, including dinosaur-themed festivals and seasonal harvest festivals.
At the roadside station outdoor exchange area
Activities & Experiences
Join seasonal events, workshops, and hands-on experiences at Dinosaur Valley Katsuyama.
Dinosaur Festival
恐竜縁日
Experience a dinosaur-themed festival with activities such as dinosaur rides, dinosaur fishing, and various stalls featuring local food and crafts. The event takes place at the roadside station and includes seasonal entertainment.
Duration
300 min
Event may be canceled in rainy weather.
Autumn Harvest Festival & Cosmos Festival
秋の収穫祭&コキア紅葉まつり
Join a seasonal celebration featuring fresh local vegetables, dinosaur-themed games, handmade crafts, and food stalls offering treats like baby castella and brownies. Enjoy试食 of Yamano Salmon rice mix and view autumn foliage.
Duration
300 min
Event proceeds in rain but may be canceled in severe weather.
14-Year-Old Challenge
14歳の挑戦
Local middle school students participate in a workplace experience by creating and promoting their own products, such as chocolate cookies, cheese burgers, and matcha rice cakes. Participants learn about entrepreneurship and product presentation.
Duration
180 min
Yamano Salmon Sushi
やまのサーモン握り寿司
Taste seasonal hand-pressed salmon sushi made with locally raised Yamano Salmon. This limited-time offering highlights the fresh, delicate flavor of the region's premium salmon.
Duration
30 min
Yamano Salmon Rice Mix
勝山 やまのサーモン炊き込みご飯の素
Try a sample of the premium Yamano Salmon rice mix, a savory blend of high-quality salmon and rice. This product captures the rich, mild flavor of the region's famous salmon.
Duration
15 min
Insider Tips
Visit on weekends for special events and avoid peak hours for a more relaxed visit.
- Best Arrival Time: Visit between 9:00 AM and 10:00 AM on weekdays to secure the limited-edition "14歳の挑戦" (14-year-old challenge) products, which are created by local middle school students and often sell out by midday.
- Hidden Gems: Look for the "マドレーヌチーズバーガー" (Madreline Cheese Burger) at the souvenir shop "ラプトル 道の駅店" — a unique fusion of light Madreline cake and sweet cheese, available in a 3-pack for 1,620 yen.
- Seasonal Special: Attend the "秋の収穫祭&コキア紅葉まつり" (Autumn Harvest & Cosmos Festival) on October 18–19 between 10:00 AM and 3:00 PM to try the "勝山 やまのサーモン炊き込みご飯の素" (Yama no Salmon Rice Mix) — a no-odor, high-quality salmon rice seasoning that is only available during this event.
- Exclusive Food Find: Purchase the "フクイラプトルショコラクッキー" (Fukirauputoru Chocolate Cookie) from the souvenir shop — a large, dinosaur-shaped cookie filled with chocolate, priced at 864 yen, and only available during seasonal events or special promotions.
- Unique Experience: Participate in the "恐竜縁日" (Dinosaur Fair) on October 11–13 or October 18–19 to enjoy the "恐竜すくい" (Dinosaur Scoop Game), where you can win small dinosaur-themed prizes using a net.
- Smart Shopping Tip: Visit the souvenir shop "ラプトル 道の駅店" between 10:00 AM and 11:00 AM on weekends to avoid crowds and have the best chance of finding the limited "羽二重お抹茶餅" (Haniwagaki Matcha Mochi), priced at 864 yen and sold only during seasonal events.
- Best View Access: Use the outdoor交流広場 (outdoor exchange plaza) at the roadside station between 10:00 AM and 12:00 PM on clear days to enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, particularly effective during autumn when the cosmos flowers are in bloom.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March-May): Limited seasonal offerings; focus shifts to spring produce and early mountain vegetables.
Summer (June-August): Peak season for fresh mountain trout and local seafood; ideal for outdoor dining at the roadside station.
Autumn (September-November): Best time for the Autumn Harvest Festival & Cosmos Festival (mid-October), featuring fresh vegetables, roasted chestnuts, and seasonal seafood.
Winter (December-February): Quiet period with no major events; visit for peaceful countryside views and year-round roadside station amenities.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
The roadside station features a children's play area, interactive dinosaur-themed events, and kid-friendly food like themed cookies and small-sized snacks. It includes stroller-friendly paths and a baby bed. Educational activities like student-run booths enhance the experience.
Food Lover Review
Offers diverse local cuisine including seasonal items like mountain salmon sushi and regional specialties such as matcha mochi and cheese-filled madeline burgers. The variety of shops and fresh local produce adds strong appeal for food enthusiasts.
Car Camping Review
Provides 24-hour restroom access and a large parking area with 88 regular car spots. Though no formal overnight camping policy is stated, the quiet, spacious grounds allow for comfortable rest. No dedicated camping facilities are available.
Scenic Beauty Review
Located in a scenic area with views of natural landscapes and seasonal changes. Offers photo opportunities near the dinosaur-themed park and surrounding greenery. The overall atmosphere is enhanced by seasonal events and well-maintained outdoor spaces.