Station Harazuru

Discover the Sweet Heart of Fukuoka’s Rural Bounty

Harazuru roadside station lies along National Route 386, serving as the welcoming gateway to Harazuru Onsen, a serene retreat nestled in the lush hills of Chikuzen. Surrounded by orchards and fertile farmland, this vibrant stop offers travelers a true taste of local life. More than just a pit stop, Harazuru is a celebration of agriculture, with its Farm Station Basalo showcasing an array of fresh regional produce.

At the heart of the station’s charm is the famed 'Hosho Persimmon,' hailed as the 'King of Persimmons' and recognized with Japan’s Agricultural Award. Visitors can savor unique treats like persimmon chips and persimmon dressing, or enjoy seasonal favorites such as Muscat grape soft serve and roasted sweet potatoes. With convenient access from the Kurume Interchange and a welcoming atmosphere, Harazuru is a must-visit for anyone exploring Fukuoka’s countryside.

Harazuru roadside station is the gateway to Haraizuru Hot Spring and the only place where you can sample the region’s famed 'Fuyu Persimmon'—a variety so exceptional it has earned Japan’s Agricultural Award. Home to the largest persimmon orchards in the country, the station offers unique treats like persimmon chips and persimmon dressing, crafted exclusively from locally grown fruit. Visitors also find fresh, sun-ripened grapes and plums harvested daily from nearby farms, making it the only spot in the area where you can taste these seasonal specialties at their peak.

• Best Arrival Time: Arrive by 9:00 AM on weekdays to access the fresh produce at the Farm Station Basalo before the morning rush, as the fruit and vegetable displays are restocked early and often sell out by midday.

• Hidden Gems: Visit the information center between 9:00 AM and 11:00 AM to speak with a staff member who can provide real-time updates on the current harvest status of the local 'Fuyu Persimmon' and recommend the best time to pick or purchase them.

• Weekend Special: On weekends, check the Farm Station Basalo counter between 10:30 AM and 11:30 AM to see if the 'Fuyu Persimmon' jam or persimmon chips are freshly made—these limited batches are often available only during weekend mornings and sell out quickly.

• Best Food Experience: Order the Giant Kyoho Grape Soft at the restaurant between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM, as it is served only during lunch hours and is made using locally grown grapes harvested that week.

• Timing for Local Events: Visit the roadside station on the first weekend of September to attend the Chikugo River Heron Fishing Festival information booth, which features live demonstrations and exclusive access to festival merchandise available only at Harazuru.

• Insider Access to Products: Purchase the Fuyu Persimmon Dressing at the Farm Station Basalo during the 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM window, as this product is only restocked once daily and is often out of stock by 1:00 PM.

• Optimal Parking Strategy: Use the main parking lot near the restaurant entrance during peak hours (11:00 AM–2:00 PM) to minimize walking distance, as the farthest parking area is frequently full during lunchtime and the restaurant’s peak visitation.

Spring (March-May): Visit during the February菜の花まつり (canola flower festival) for blooming fields and enjoy fresh bamboo shoots at the market.

Summer (June-August): Experience the筑後川鵜飼 (Chikugo River cormorant fishing) from May 20 to August 31, a unique seasonal tradition.

Autumn (September-November): See golden sunflowers at the Septemberひまわりフェア (sunflower fair) and attend the late November収穫祭 (harvest festival).

Winter (December-February): Explore the roadside station during the off-season when the area is peaceful, ideal for visiting before the winter closure.