Discover the Soul of Japanese Ceramics in the Heart of Nature
Nestled along National Route 211 in the serene highlands of East Mine Village, Koishihara roadside station is a celebration of tradition, craftsmanship, and rural charm. Surrounded by forested slopes and fresh mountain air, this vibrant hub stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of Koishihara Ware—ceramics with a history spanning three centuries. More than just a stopover, it’s a living gallery where over fifty local kilns showcase their artistry in the dedicated "Terra Cotta Village Hall."
Visitors can explore handcrafted pottery, savor seasonal farm produce, and enjoy hearty local cuisine at the on-site restaurant. The station also serves as a gateway to nearby attractions, including ancient kiln ruins, the serene Kogyo Forest Park, and the famed Hikosugi Cedar Grove. With seasonal festivals like the Spring and Autumn Ceramic Mura Matsuri, Koishihara offers a deeply immersive experience into Fukuoka’s cultural heartbeat.
Why Visit
Visit Koishihara roadside station to experience the heart of Fukuoka’s ceramic heritage, where over 50 traditional kilns from the historic Koishihara Ware and Takatori Ware traditions converge in one vibrant space. Unlike any other roadside station, Koishihara offers direct access to authentic, handcrafted pottery made by local artisans—each piece reflecting centuries of skill and regional identity. Here, you can also savor seasonal dishes like warm, hearty dago soup and locally made soft serve crafted from fresh dairy, a rare treat only available in this highland village.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor authentic regional flavors at Koishihara roadside station, where local dishes like udon and dango soup warm your soul.
Kodachi
こだち
Specialty
Traditional Japanese cuisine with local ingredients
A cozy restaurant offering authentic regional dishes made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, perfect for a relaxing meal during a road trip.
Shopping Highlights
Discover handcrafted ceramics and fresh local produce at Koishihara's vibrant marketplace.
Tou no Sato Kan
陶の里館
A specialty shop showcasing and selling authentic Koishihara-yaki and Takatori-yaki pottery from over 50 local kilns.
Products
Must-Try Item
Koishihara-yaki pottery
Featured Products
Experience the beauty of everyday use with Koishihara's renowned pottery, handcrafted by centuries-old kilns.
Koishihara-yaki Pottery
小石原焼
Handcrafted pottery with a three-century tradition, known for its unique glaze and functional beauty.
Takatori-yaki Pottery
髙取焼
Traditional Japanese pottery from Takatori, renowned for its elegant design and durability.
Local Vegetable Set
地元野菜セット
Fresh, seasonal vegetables sourced directly from local farms in Tōmin Village.
Facilities & Amenities
Relax and refresh with convenient amenities, including restrooms, parking, and information kiosks.
Parking
Available for visitors at the roadside station.
Near the main entrance and adjacent to the facility buildings
Restroom
Public toilets are available for visitors.
Located within the main facility complex
Information Center
Provides road information, nearby roadside station details, local tourism information, medical information, and weather updates. Operates from 9:00 to 17:30.
Inside the roadside station building
Wi-Fi
Wi-Fi access is available through an information terminal located at the station.
Near the information terminal
ATM
An ATM is available on-site for visitor convenience.
Near the main entrance
EV Charging Station
Electric vehicle charging facilities are available at the roadside station.
Near the parking area
Play Area
A play area for children is available, though it is not explicitly detailed in the provided content.
Near the rest area
Nursing Room
A dedicated nursing room for mothers with infants is available.
Inside the restroom area
Restaurant Kodachi
A restaurant located at the roadside station serving local specialties such as udon, dago soup, and soft serve ice cream.
Inside the roadside station building
Tō no Sato Kan (Pottery Market)
A market where over 50 traditional pottery kilns from Koishiwara and Takatori produce and sell their ceramics. Features unique, handcrafted pottery from local artisans.
Inside the roadside station building
Activities & Experiences
Engage in seasonal events and hands-on workshops celebrating the art and tradition of local ceramics.
Pottery Workshop
陶芸体験
Participants will create their own pottery using traditional techniques from the renowned Koishiwara ware and Takatori ware. The activity allows hands-on experience with clay, shaping, and glazing under guidance.
Duration
90 min
Indoor activity; weather does not affect participation.
Pottery Tour
陶器の里館見学
Explore the Koishiwara Pottery Village and visit around 50 kilns with a rich history of over 300 years. Learn about the traditional craftsmanship and heritage of Koishiwara ware.
Duration
60 min
Outdoor tour; best experienced on clear days for full visibility of the surrounding landscape.
Local Food Tasting Experience
地元グルメ体験
Taste authentic local dishes such as udon, dago soup, and soft serve ice cream at the on-site restaurant 'Kodachi'. Learn about the regional ingredients and culinary traditions.
Duration
45 min
Indoor dining; weather does not affect the experience.
Seasonal Ceramic Festival
民陶むら祭り
Join the annual Koishiwara Pottery Festival held in spring and autumn. Enjoy live demonstrations, artisan stalls, cultural performances, and special limited-edition pottery pieces.
Duration
180 min
Outdoor event; check weather forecast and prepare for rain or sun as needed.
Insider Tips
Visit during the spring or autumn pottery festivals to witness the village come alive with cultural celebrations.
- Best Arrival Time: Visit between 9:00 AM and 10:00 AM on weekdays to access the full selection of small-batch ceramics at the Tō no Sato Kan (Pottery Village Hall), as popular pieces from the 50 participating kilns often sell out by midday.
- Hidden Gems: Ask at the Tō no Sato Kan counter for the seasonal "local vegetable bundle" available only during peak harvest months (April to October), which includes freshly picked daikon, eggplants, and heirloom tomatoes not sold elsewhere.
- Weekend Special: On the first Sunday of November, visit the Tō no Sato Kan during the Ōminato Village Autumn Festival to view and purchase limited-edition ceramics created by local artisans specifically for the event.
- Best Food Experience: Order the "udon with local broth" at the restaurant Kodachi between 11:30 AM and 1:00 PM to enjoy the daily fresh batch of homemade udon, which is made on-site and served only during lunch hours.
- Information Advantage: Use the information terminal at the roadside station between 9:00 AM and 11:00 AM to check real-time road conditions on National Route 211, especially when traveling toward Ukiha or the Ōtō Cherry Blossom Route.
- Photography Tip: Visit the site’s outdoor information board just after 3:00 PM on weekdays to photograph the reflection of the pottery kilns in the nearby pond, which is most visible when the sun hits at a low angle.
- Local Insight: If you're visiting during the Spring or Autumn Ceramic Festival, purchase tickets at the roadside station’s information desk in advance to reserve entry to the historic kiln ruins and the Small Kiln Heritage Museum, which are only open during festival periods.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March–May): Visit during the Spring Folk Pottery Festival (May 3–5) to experience local artisans and enjoy fresh bamboo shoots available at the market.
Summer (June–August): Ideal for exploring the surrounding forest parks and visiting the site during the annual rock garden and pottery festival in October.
Autumn (September–November): Best for the Autumn Festival on the first Sunday of November and sampling seasonal chestnuts and autumn vegetables.
Winter (December–February): Visit during the quiet season to enjoy the tranquil atmosphere and seasonal pottery displays.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
The roadside station offers a variety of local crafts and seasonal events, enhancing family engagement. While no dedicated play area or baby facilities are available, the cultural atmosphere and interactive pottery displays provide educational value. Stroller access is limited due to uneven terrain, but the site remains welcoming for families seeking authentic experiences.
Food Lover Review
The roadside station features a diverse range of local cuisine including handmade udon, dango soup, and soft serve. The陶の里館 (Pottery Village Hall) sells regional specialties and fresh produce. While not extensive, the food offerings reflect authentic local flavors with a strong emphasis on traditional craftsmanship and seasonal ingredients.
Car Camping Review
Basic facilities like restrooms and vending machines are available, supporting short stops. However, there is no designated overnight parking policy, and no camping or lodging options are provided. The site lacks quietness and privacy, making it unsuitable for extended stays or car camping.
Scenic Beauty Review
Located in a scenic mountainous region with panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, the roadside station offers natural beauty. The area features seasonal landscapes, especially during cherry blossom and autumn foliage seasons. The pottery village setting adds cultural charm and aesthetic appeal to the overall atmosphere.