Where Road, Nature, and Community Come Together
Nestled along National Route 201 in the heart of Fukuoka Prefecture, Kasuga roadside station stands as a vibrant gateway to the cultural and natural riches of Kawara Spring Town. More than a rest stop, it’s a living hub where travelers, local farmers, and the rhythms of the land converge. Designed as a pioneer in the "town where people, roads, and wind intersect," Kasuga celebrates its heritage as a historic crossroads while championing sustainable community development.
Visitors are welcomed by fresh, locally sourced produce at the on-site market, seasonal farm-to-table dining, and informative kiosks offering real-time travel, tourism, and emergency resources. With facilities like EV charging, free Wi-Fi, disaster preparedness systems, and a dedicated children’s corner, Kasuga ensures comfort and connectivity. From spring’s bamboo shoots to autumn’s harvest festivals, every visit unfolds a story of local pride and seasonal joy.
Why Visit
Kasuga roadside station stands out as the only place in the region where visitors can taste freshly made bamboo shoot dumplings, a local specialty prepared daily by artisans using heirloom varieties from nearby fields. Its unique feature is the on-site processing facility where visitors can watch traditional rice flour noodles being crafted by hand, a rare craft preserved only here. Beyond food, the station serves as a cultural hub, offering real-time route and event updates through interactive panels, making it an essential stop for travelers exploring the historic Kawa Spring Town.
Restaurants & Dining
At Kasuga roadside station, savor local flavors in a welcoming atmosphere.
Kawara Kitchen
かわらキッチン
Specialty
Local cuisine with fresh, seasonal ingredients
A cozy restaurant offering traditional regional dishes made with locally sourced, fresh ingredients. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, perfect for enjoying authentic flavors of the area.
Farmers' Table Cafe
ファーマーズテーブルカフェ
Specialty
Light meals and homemade pastries
A relaxed café serving light meals, coffee, and homemade pastries using ingredients from local farms. The ambiance is calm and rustic, ideal for a peaceful break.
Local Delights Food Stall
地元グルメ屋台
Specialty
Quick street-style snacks
A vibrant food stall offering quick, flavorful snacks made with regional ingredients. Perfect for a casual bite while exploring the station.
Shopping Highlights
Discover fresh, regional goods at Kasuga's vibrant marketplace.
Local Produce Market
地元産直売所
A market specializing in fresh, locally grown agricultural products from the region.
Products
Must-Try Item
Fresh seasonal vegetables
Kawara Bakery
かわらベーカリー
A small bakery offering handmade bread, pastries, and seasonal treats using local flour and ingredients.
Products
Must-Try Item
Kawara sourdough loaf
Craft & Souvenir Shop
工芸品とお土産屋
A shop selling handmade crafts and local souvenirs made by regional artisans.
Products
Must-Try Item
Hand-painted pottery
Kawara Specialty Store
かわら特産品店
A general store offering a wide range of local products, from food to household goods.
Products
Must-Try Item
Kawara dried persimmons
Kawara Liquor Shop
かわら酒屋
A shop specializing in local alcoholic beverages, including sake and regional spirits.
Products
Must-Try Item
Kawara craft sake
Featured Products
Sample signature items like seasonal vegetables and handcrafted treats.
Kawara Dried Persimmons
かわら柿の干し柿
Premium dried persimmons made from locally grown fruit, sun-dried to perfection for a sweet, chewy texture.
Kawara Sourdough Loaf
かわら自家製パン
Artisanal sourdough bread made with locally milled flour and natural fermentation, known for its rich flavor and chewy crust.
Kawara Seasonal Fruit Jam
かわら旬果実ジャム
Handcrafted fruit jam made from seasonal fruits harvested at peak ripeness, no artificial additives.
Hand-Painted Pottery Set
手描き陶器セット
A set of hand-painted ceramic tableware made by local artisans, featuring traditional patterns and vibrant colors.
Kawara Herbal Tea Blend
かわらハーブティー
A unique blend of locally foraged herbs and flowers, known for its calming properties and natural aroma.
Facilities & Amenities
Enjoy convenient amenities including restrooms, Wi-Fi, and EV charging.
Parking
Parking facilities are available at the roadside station.
Near the main entrance
Restroom
Toilets are available 24 hours a day.
Throughout the facility
Free Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the roadside station.
Throughout the facility
Information Counter
An information center providing road, tourism, medical, and other local information via panels and bulletin boards. Open from 9:00 to 18:00.
Main facility
Nursing Room
A dedicated room for nursing mothers is available.
Near the restroom area
EV Charging Station
Electric vehicle charging stations are available on-site.
Near the parking area
Insider Tips
Plan visits around festivals and check hours in advance for best access.
- Best Arrival Time: Arrive by 9:30 AM on weekends to secure fresh-baked milk bread from the bakery, which sells out by 11:00 AM and is only available during the 9:00–11:00 AM window
- Hidden Gems: Visit the information corner between 9:00–10:00 AM to view the latest route updates on the bulletin board, as new road condition reports are posted daily before noon
- Weekend Special: On the second Saturday of each month, stop by the special produce stand near the entrance to find seasonal local vegetables from the nearby "Wagie no Sato" farm, which are only available for the first two hours of opening
- Foodie Tip: Order the "Kawara Special Curry" at the restaurant counter between 11:30 AM and 1:00 PM, as it is the only time the chef prepares the limited-time seasonal curry using ingredients sourced directly from the on-site agricultural processing facility
- EV Charging: Use the EV charging station located near the main parking area between 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM, when the station is least likely to be occupied due to lower visitor volume
- Local Event Alert: Check the bulletin board near the information corner every Friday to see if the "Kawara Town Fair" has been rescheduled or moved to a new date—past events have been relocated due to weather
- Free Wi-Fi Access: Connect to the free Wi-Fi named "MichiNoEkiKawara" at the information corner to access real-time updates on upcoming local events, including the summer bon dance and autumn festival, which are posted only during the 12:00–1:00 PM window
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March–May): Peak season for fresh bamboo shoots, with live demonstrations and sales from March to May.
Summer (June–August): Hosts the annual Furisato Kawara Summer Festival with Bon dance events in August.
Autumn (September–November): Features the Furisato Kawara Autumn Festival and agricultural fair from October to November.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Offers baby facilities and stroller access. No dedicated play areas or children's activities, but includes restrooms and a family-friendly atmosphere. Educational value through local produce and seasonal events.
Food Lover Review
Features a variety of local food options, including fresh produce and regional specialties. Direct sales from local farmers ensure quality. Dining area offers diverse meals, and seasonal events enhance culinary experience.
Car Camping Review
Provides restrooms and parking, but no designated overnight camping area. No overnight parking policy stated. Quiet during daytime, but lacks facilities for extended stays. Suitable for short stops only.
Scenic Beauty Review
Surrounded by natural landscapes and seasonal beauty. Offers views of nearby mountains and rivers. Scenic viewpoints available, with a peaceful atmosphere enhanced by local greenery and seasonal events.