Station Renjo-no-Sato Awara

Discover the Heart of Awara’s Heritage and Nature

Renjo-no-Sato Awara is a vibrant roadside station nestled in the historic吉崎 (Yoshizaki) district of Awara City, where centuries-old traditions meet modern-day charm. Born from the legacy of Rennyo Shonin, the founding figure of Jodo Shinshu Buddhism, this destination celebrates the region’s deep cultural roots, pristine landscapes, and rich agricultural heritage.

More than a mere rest stop, Renjo-no-Sato Awara invites travelers to engage with local life through its farm-fresh produce market, regional cuisine featuring signature dishes like Orosoba noodles and Ghost Mask Omurice, and a full-service rental bike program that unlocks scenic coastal and mountain trails. With shower facilities, a welcoming café, and seasonal treats like fruit parfaits, it’s a place where every visit feels like a journey into the soul of rural Japan.

Renjo-no-Sato Awara stands out as the only roadside station in the region offering artisanal milk ice cream made from fresh Jersey cow milk sourced exclusively from local farms in Awara City. Visitors can also savor the unique "Oni Men" Omurice, inspired by the legendary "Yome Osashi no Men" (Bride-Scaring Mask) story from the historic Gikasaki area. With guided cycling routes through coastal and mountain trails, and a full-service shower facility, it’s a rare destination where history, local dairy craftsmanship, and outdoor adventure converge.

• Best Arrival Time: Arrive by 9:30 AM on weekdays to secure a seat at the deli counter before the daily batch of fresh-baked milk bread sells out, as it is only restocked once per day and typically sells out by 11:00 AM.

• Hidden Gems: Visit the local produce stand between 9:00–10:00 AM on weekdays to find the day’s first harvest of seasonal vegetables from Awara City, including early-season shiitake mushrooms and heirloom tomatoes, which are often not available later in the day.

• Weekend Special: On Saturdays and Sundays, head to the food counter between 11:00 AM and 12:00 PM to try the limited-time "Ghost Face Omurice," a signature dish inspired by the local legend of the "Groom’s Threatening Mask," which is only served during weekend lunch hours.

• Bicycle Rental Tip: Reserve the rental bikes in advance via the official website for the 3–11 month season, as the station only has 12 bikes available and they are frequently booked out by midday, especially on weekends.

• Shower Access: Use the shower room before 12:00 PM on weekdays to avoid the 30-minute wait that often occurs after 2:00 PM, as the facility is busiest during peak afternoon hours when cyclists and hikers return from tours.

• Dessert Timing: Order the weekday-exclusive "Pudding & Fruit Almond Mode" at the counter before 2:00 PM, as it is only available until 3:00 PM and is prepared fresh in small batches each day.

• Local Product Purchase: Buy the "Awara Kurokaki Pickled Vegetables" at the gift shop before 4:00 PM on Fridays and Saturdays, as they are restocked only once weekly and often sell out by late afternoon.

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

Summer (June–August): Rent a bicycle from March to November and explore coastal and mountain trails.

Autumn (September–November): Enjoy seasonal produce and local cuisine at the roadside station.

Winter (December–February): Visit during the holiday season with limited weekday hours and cozy indoor dining.