Discover the Heart of Kyushu’s Natural Heritage
Kanyusha Hikosan, nestled at the base of sacred Mount Hikozan in the southeastern corner of Fukuoka Prefecture, serves as a vibrant roadside station and gateway to one of Japan’s three great Shugendō pilgrimage routes. Surrounded by lush forests and fertile farmland, this destination blends rural charm with modern convenience, offering travelers a refreshing escape rooted in local culture and nature.
The station shines with its expansive agricultural market, showcasing fresh produce from the Kin no Hara plateau—crisp radishes, carrots, green onions, cucumbers, and tomatoes—alongside vibrant flowers and regional specialties like sweet rice cakes and handcrafted ceramics. Families enjoy the children’s play park, while visitors can unwind at the nearby Qua House "Happiness" spa or savor local flavors at the on-site restaurants. With easy access from major highways and proximity to attractions like the Hikozan Ropeway and Forest Adventure, Kanyusha Hikosan is a must-stop for those exploring the scenic beauty and authentic spirit of northern Kyushu.
Why Visit
Located at the gateway to sacred Mount Hikosan, Kanyusha Hikosan stands out for its exclusive access to fresh produce from the golden fields of Kinomoto Plateau—especially its renowned radishes, carrots, and heirloom tomatoes, harvested daily and sold at the roadside station. Visitors can also sample the only local mochi made with traditional stone-ground rice from the region’s own mills, a treat not found elsewhere.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor authentic local flavors at Kanyusha Hikosan’s diverse eateries, from hearty steaks to traditional soba and sweet kinako mochi.
Main Restaurant
本場韓国料理 宋家 添田店
Specialty
Authentic Korean cuisine
A traditional Korean restaurant offering a variety of authentic dishes in a welcoming atmosphere.
Chinese Restaurant
中華「味菜」
Specialty
Authentic Chinese cuisine
A cozy Chinese eatery serving traditional dishes with a focus on fresh ingredients and bold flavors.
Mochi Workshop
もち工房
Specialty
Traditional mochi and sweet snacks
A charming café specializing in handmade mochi and seasonal sweets, offering a relaxing atmosphere with a focus on craftsmanship.
Shopping Highlights
Discover a curated selection of regional goods, fresh produce, and handmade crafts at Kanyusha Hikosan’s vibrant market.
Farmers Market
物産販売所
A marketplace featuring fresh local produce, rice, fruits, and seasonal vegetables from the region.
Products
Must-Try Item
Fresh Vegetables from Kin no Hara Plateau
Bakery
もち工房
A dedicated bakery specializing in handmade mochi and traditional Japanese sweets.
Products
Must-Try Item
Matcha Mochi
Souvenir Shop
物産販売所
A shop offering regional souvenirs, including local crafts, ceramics, and traditional goods.
Products
Must-Try Item
Hikosan Mountain Spirit Water
Featured Products
Taste the essence of the region with signature specialties like fresh vegetables from Kin no Haru Plateau and seasonal flowers like Turkish gladiolus.
Fukuoka Prefecture Roadside Station Cookie
福岡県道の駅を巡るクッキー
A limited-edition cookie celebrating Fukuoka's roadside stations, perfect for collectors and travelers.
Hikosan Mountain Spirit Water
英彦山山霊の水
Natural spring water sourced from the sacred Mount Hikosan, offered as a complimentary gift with purchase.
Fresh Vegetables from Kin no Hara Plateau
金の原台地の新鮮な野菜
Locally grown seasonal vegetables including radish, carrot, green onion, cucumber, and tomato.
Turkish Delight Flowers
トルコキキョウ
Beautiful dried flowers known for their vibrant color and long-lasting bloom, ideal for decoration.
New Rice
新米
Freshly harvested rice from the region, known for its rich flavor and high quality.
Facilities & Amenities
Relax and recharge with spacious parking, clean restrooms, a relaxing foot bath, and convenient amenities at Kanyusha Hikosan.
Parking
Parking area available for visitors.
Near the main entrance of the roadside station
Restroom
Public restrooms available for visitors.
Throughout the facility, including near the information center and playground
Information Center
Provides road information, nearby roadside station details, tourism information, medical information, weather, and disaster alerts. Open from 9:00 to 18:00.
Main building, near the entrance
Children's Play Area
A dedicated children's playground with various play equipment, popular with families.
Near the main building and adjacent to the park
Hot Spring Facility
A spa facility named 'Happiness' featuring a walking pool and foot bath.
Adjacent to the main facility
EV Charging Station
Electric vehicle charging station available on-site.
Near the parking area
Insider Tips
Visit on weekdays for fewer crowds, and bring your own container to receive free sacred water from Hiko-san Mountain.
- Best Arrival Time: Visit the mochi shop by 10:00 AM on weekdays or 11:00 AM on weekends to secure the day’s fresh mochi, as it sells out by 2:00 PM on weekdays and 12:00 PM on Sundays and holidays.
- Hidden Gems: At the mochi shop, look for the limited-edition seasonal mochi made with local ingredients like black garlic or yuzu—these are only available during specific months and sell out quickly.
- Weekend Special: On weekends, visit the information center between 10:00 AM and 11:00 AM to receive a free sample of the featured local vegetable—such as fresh radish or cucumber—from the Golden Origin Plateau, while supplies last.
- Best Purchase Time: Buy the newly harvested rice at the gift shop before 12:00 PM on weekdays, as the “New Rice” display is only available until noon and is sold in limited quantities.
- Free Gift Strategy: Bring your own container to the information center during operating hours (9:00 AM–6:00 PM) to receive a complimentary bottle of sacred water from Mount Hiko, available to customers who spend over 1,500 yen.
- Dining Tip: Order the steamed fish curry at the mountain-style restaurant between 11:30 AM and 12:30 PM, as this is the only time the menu features the day’s fresh catch from local waters.
- Family Activity: Take children to the children’s play park before 3:00 PM to avoid the afternoon heat and enjoy the full range of play equipment, including the large climbing net and slide, before the facility begins cleaning at 5:00 PM.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March-May): Peak season for fresh vegetables like daikon and carrots from Kin no Haru plateau; visit during the Hiko-san Mountain Opening festival in May.
Summer (June-August): Fresh rice harvest begins in August; enjoy seasonal produce and cool off at the nearby Qua House "Happiness" foot bath.
Autumn (September-November): New rice sales begin in August, continuing into autumn; local harvests include autumn vegetables and flowers.
Winter (December-February): Limited seasonal offerings; best for quiet visits and nearby scenic views with no major events.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
The roadside station features a large children's play park with diverse equipment, making it highly appealing for families. It offers stroller-friendly paths and clean restrooms. While no dedicated baby facilities are noted, the park and open spaces enhance the family experience.
Food Lover Review
The roadside station provides a variety of dining options including Korean, Chinese, and local specialty shops. It showcases fresh regional produce like vegetables and unique items such as kinako mochi. The emphasis on local ingredients and seasonal offerings enhances the food experience.
Car Camping Review
The station offers ample parking, clean restrooms, and vending machines, supporting overnight stays. However, it lacks designated camping zones, and there is no explicit policy on overnight parking. The environment is moderately quiet, suitable for short stops but not ideal for extended camping.
Scenic Beauty Review
Located at the base of Mount Hiko, the station offers scenic views of the surrounding natural landscape. The nearby forested areas and river park provide strong photo opportunities. Seasonal beauty is evident in the fresh produce and surrounding greenery, contributing to a pleasant atmosphere.