Station Shin Yoshitomi

Discover History, Nature, and Local Flavor at Shin Yoshitomi

Nestled along National Route 10 at the border of Fukuoka and Oita Prefectures, Shin Yoshitomi is a rare roadside station built around the ancient Da-no-se Official Residence Site, a significant historical landmark. This unique integration of heritage and modern travel amenities creates an immersive experience where visitors can connect with the region’s past while enjoying fresh local produce and authentic cuisine.

The station’s standout features include Pizzeria Fiero, where expert chefs craft traditional Neapolitan pizzas using locally sourced ingredients and a wood-fired oven imported from Italy. Don’t miss the house-made gelato, a favorite among guests. With a vibrant farmers’ market, seasonal events like the autumn lantern festival, and easy access to nearby natural attractions, Shin Yoshitomi offers a genuine taste of rural Japan’s enduring charm.

Visit Shin Yoshitomi roadside station to experience Japan’s only roadside station situated directly adjacent to the ancient Da-no-se Official Residence Ruins, offering a rare blend of history and modern hospitality. Here, taste the region’s only artisanal lemon tart and cake made from locally grown, sun-ripened lemons from the Uemori region—flavors you won’t find anywhere else. For a truly unique experience, savor authentic Neapolitan-style pizza baked in a wood-fired oven using ingredients from the local area, a specialty exclusive to Pizzeria Fiero within the station.

• Best Arrival Time: Visit between 11:00 AM and 12:00 PM on weekdays to experience the peak of PIZZERIA FIERO’s fresh wood-fired pizza service, as the ovens are at full operation and the staff are actively preparing new batches.

• Hidden Gems: At the deli counter inside the物産館 (Products Hall), look for the limited-edition lemon tart and lemon cake made exclusively with locally grown lemons from Uekata Town—these are only available during the summer months and often sell out by 2:00 PM.

• Weekend Special: On weekends, check the food truck schedule posted at the food terrace entrance—food trucks typically arrive between 10:30 AM and 1:00 PM, offering regional specialties like grilled fish skewers and local barley tea.

• Information Corner Advantage: Use the two information terminals at the information corner between 9:30 AM and 11:00 AM to access real-time traffic updates for National Route 10, especially useful if you're planning to drive through the mountain passes near the Yama Kuni Bridge.

• Historical Site Access: Visit the Ōnosé Government Ruins (adjacent to the roadside station) right after entering the station, as the site’s entrance is open from 9:00 AM and the first guided tour begins at 10:00 AM—this is the only time during the day when guided interpretation is available.

• Fresh Produce Timing: Head to the Products Hall’s fresh produce section just after 8:00 AM on weekdays to get first access to the day’s harvest of seasonal vegetables and fruits, which are delivered daily from local farms and often include rare heirloom varieties.

• Gelato Priority: Go straight to PIZZERIA FIERO’s counter immediately after it opens at 11:00 AM to order the house-made gelato, which is prepared in small batches and is often sold out by 1:30 PM on sunny days.

Spring (March–May): Late March to April features peak canola flower blooms, ideal for photography and walking trails near the site.

Summer (June–August): July hosts the Hanabi Kōge Festival at the nearby lake, with evening lantern displays.

Autumn (September–November): Early October brings the Kōge Lake Lantern Festival, highlighting seasonal beauty.

Winter (December–February): January offers quiet visits with seasonal produce and warm local cuisine.