Discover the Heart of Fukushima’s Rural Bounty
Nestled along the scenic National Route 115, Date no Sato Ryozen is a vibrant roadside station in the heart of Date City, where lush mountain landscapes meet fertile farmland. Just minutes from the Reizan Interchange on the Tōhoku Chūō Expressway, it serves as a welcoming gateway to the region’s rich agricultural heritage and authentic local culture.
More than a pit stop, this roadside station is a celebration of Fukushima’s finest—home to seasonal festivals like the Peach Fair and the Autumn Taste Festival, featuring fresh produce such as award-winning Aka Tsuki peaches and locally grown burdock root. Visitors can savor unique culinary creations, from savory miso-infused vegetables on pizza to grilled Iwaki chicken skewers, all crafted by passionate local producers. With its bustling market, artisanal bakery, and vibrant community events, Date no Sato Ryozen offers an immersive journey into the flavors, traditions, and natural beauty of rural Fukushima.
Why Visit
Date no Sato Ryozen stands out as the only roadside station in the region offering a direct taste of Iwate’s famed Jersey cow dairy culture, home to the exclusive “milk ice cream” crafted from locally raised Jersey milk. Equally unique is its annual Peach Fair, where visitors can enjoy the rare 'Akatsuki' peach—only available from late July—and participate in hands-on peach-picking experiences. These seasonal highlights, paired with signature items like the savory miso-infused burdock and carrot pizza, make this station a must-visit for authentic, locally rooted flavors.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor authentic local flavors at Date no Sato Ryozen roadside station, where farm-fresh ingredients meet traditional craftsmanship.
Date no Shoku-an
だて食庵
Specialty
Traditional Japanese cuisine with local ingredients
A cozy restaurant offering authentic Japanese dishes made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients from Date City. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, perfect for enjoying home-style meals in a rustic setting.
Makiba no Jersey Roadside Station
まきばのジャージー道の駅店
Specialty
Farm-to-table street food with seasonal ingredients
A vibrant food stall offering fresh, seasonal street food made from ingredients grown by local farmers. The atmosphere is lively and casual, ideal for quick bites with a farm-fresh twist.
Café de Repos
Café de Repos
Specialty
Artisanal coffee and homemade pastries
A peaceful café offering handcrafted coffee and freshly baked pastries. The ambiance is calm and inviting, ideal for relaxing with a book or enjoying a quiet moment.
Shopping Highlights
Discover handcrafted goods and regional specialties at this vibrant roadside station, perfect for unique souvenirs.
Makiba no Jersey
まきばのジャージー
A farmers' market featuring fresh produce and seasonal goods from local farms in Date City.
Products
Must-Try Item
Fresh burdock and carrots
Ryozan Pan Koubou 115
りょうぜんパン工房115
A small bakery specializing in handmade bread and baked goods using local flour and ingredients.
Products
Must-Try Item
Sourdough Bread
Ryozan Yaki Honpo
りょうぜん焼き本舗
A general retail shop offering a variety of local snacks, souvenirs, and everyday goods.
Products
Must-Try Item
Date Chicken Yakitori Set
Karaage Koubou Miso Kariya
からあげ工房 みそから屋
A specialty shop focused on grilled chicken and chicken-based products.
Products
Must-Try Item
Date Chicken Yakitori
Tukitate Mochi Fuku no Tsuki
つきたて餅 福乃月
A traditional shop specializing in freshly made mochi using local rice and sweet fillings.
Products
Must-Try Item
Sweet Red Bean Mochi
Featured Products
Experience signature items like伊達のソース and seasonal delights such as fresh peaches and heirloom vegetables.
Date Sauce
伊達のソース
A smooth, savory sauce made from locally grown onions, perfect for dipping or cooking.
Date Chicken Yakitori Set
伊達鶏の焼き鳥セット
A premium set of grilled chicken skewers made from locally raised Date chicken, ideal for grilling at home.
Newly Harvested Onion
新たまねぎ
Freshly harvested local onions from the fields of Date City, known for their sweetness and crisp texture.
Date Peach Gift Set
伊達の桃贈答品
A premium gift set featuring fresh local peaches, perfect for gifting or sharing with loved ones.
Date Peach Jelly
伊達の桃ゼリー
A delicate, fruity jelly made from ripe local peaches, ideal for dessert or snacks.
Facilities & Amenities
Relax and recharge with convenient restrooms, picnic areas, and free Wi-Fi at this mountain-side roadside station.
Parking
Ample parking space available for visitors and travelers.
Near the main entrance of the roadside station
Restroom
Clean and accessible restrooms for visitors.
Inside the main building
Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi access available throughout the roadside station.
Throughout the facility
Information Center
Visitor information center providing maps, local guides, and event details.
Main entrance area
Play Area
Children's play area with safe equipment for kids to enjoy.
Near the children's village
EV Charging Station
Electric vehicle charging station available for visitors.
Near the parking area
ATM
Cash machine available for visitor convenience.
Near the main entrance
Nursing Room
Private room for nursing mothers with seating and changing facilities.
Inside the main building
Pet Area
Designated space for pets to rest and relieve themselves.
Outside near the entrance
Activities & Experiences
Engage in seasonal festivals, hands-on workshops, and farm-to-table experiences throughout the year.
Peach Picking Experience
桃狩り体験
Participants can pick fresh peaches at the roadside station. The activity is available in limited sessions with a maximum of 30 participants per session.
Duration
60 min
Potato Filling Experience
新たまねぎ詰め放題
Participants can fill their own bags with fresh local new onions at no cost. The event is held in multiple sessions throughout June.
Duration
30 min
Pony Interaction Experience
ポニーふれあい体験
Participants can interact with ponies in a safe and supervised environment. Suitable for children and families.
Duration
30 min
Summer Festival
小国区民会×道の駅 夏祭り2025
A summer festival featuring local food, live performances, and interactive events such as children's booths, taiko drumming, and Bon dancing.
Duration
120 min
Peach Fair
伊達の桃フェア
A seasonal event celebrating fresh peaches from Iwaki City, featuring peach-based products such as gelato, shakes, and fresh fruit.
Duration
180 min
Autumn Harvest Festival
秋の味覚フェア2025
A seasonal food festival showcasing autumn produce from Miyagi Prefecture's Onagawa Town, featuring local specialties and seasonal dishes.
Duration
240 min
Spring Festival
GWスペシャルフェスタ2025
A special spring festival held during Golden Week, featuring local food vendors, outdoor tents, and family-friendly workshops.
Duration
360 min
Sardine Festival
北海道松前町「本まぐろ祭り」
A special event celebrating fresh tuna from Sapporo, Hokkaido, featuring live cooking demonstrations and tastings.
Duration
180 min
Flower Exhibition
ふくしまの花を愛でるライフスタイル
An exhibition showcasing beautiful flowers from Fukushima Prefecture, ideal for photo opportunities and appreciation of seasonal blooms.
Duration
60 min
Workshop for Children
参加型ワークショップ
Interactive workshops designed for children, offering hands-on activities and creative experiences in a fun environment.
Duration
60 min
Taiko Drumming Experience
ちびっ子太鼓(参加型)
A participatory taiko drumming session suitable for children and families, promoting teamwork and rhythm.
Duration
45 min
Bon Dancing
盆踊り(参加型)
A traditional Japanese Bon dancing event open to all participants, encouraging community engagement and cultural appreciation.
Duration
90 min
Insider Tips
Visit during harvest seasons for limited-edition treats and plan ahead for popular events like peach picking.
- Best Arrival Time: Visit between 9:00 AM and 10:00 AM on weekdays to secure a spot at the "newly harvested shallots" sampling tent, which opens at 10:00 AM and sells out quickly during the six scheduled events (June 14–29).
- Hidden Gems: Look for the "miso-flavored burdock and carrot pizza" at the Makiba Jiru Roadside Station booth—this limited-time item uses produce from local grower Norihiro Sano and is only available during summer months.
- Weekend Special: On August 9 from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM, attend the Small Country District Festival and try the charcoal-grilled Iwaki Chicken Yakitori at the outdoor food stalls—this event features first-time vendors and includes a free children’s activity zone.
- Seasonal Product Tip: Purchase the Iwaki Sauce (made with locally grown onions) in person during the Peach Fair (July 19–August 31), as it is only restocked during this period and is not available for online order.
- Exclusive Experience: Reserve a spot for the Peach Picking Experience on July 26, 27, August 2, or 3—book by phone in advance, as each session is limited to 30 people and fills quickly.
- Best Food Combo: Order the American dog, Picozza skewer, and Tofu skewer together from the Makiba Jiru Roadside Station booth for a full sampling of three popular roadside station specialties, all made with local ingredients.
- Special Event Reward: During the 1000th Anniversary Celebration (April 26–27), visit the Iwaki Chicken Yakitori stand to receive a Happy Redemption Voucher—this voucher can be exchanged for exclusive Iwaki Food items only available during the two-day event.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March-May): Peak season for the "GW Special Festival" (May 3–6) and newly harvested spring vegetables like asparagus and radishes at the roadside station.
Summer (June-August): Enjoy the "Summer Festival" (August 9) and fresh "new onion" tasting events (June 14–29).
Autumn (September-November): Highlighted by the "Autumn Taste Fair" and seasonal specialties like persimmons and chestnuts.
Winter (December-February): Limited seasonal offerings; focus on preserved foods and indoor dining experiences.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Offers play areas and events like pony encounters, children's workshops, and seasonal festivals. Features kid-friendly food and stroller-accessible paths. Educational activities and family events enhance the experience.
Food Lover Review
Diverse dining options include local specialties like伊達鶏 (Izumi chicken) and seasonal items such as peach gelato. Fresh produce and artisanal goods like regional sauces and handmade tofu are available.
Car Camping Review
Provides restrooms and vending machines, with a quiet rural setting. Overnight parking is not explicitly stated, but the facility supports extended stays with basic amenities and a peaceful atmosphere.
Scenic Beauty Review
Located in a serene mountain and rural landscape with scenic views and seasonal beauty. Offers photo spots with nature and flower displays. The overall atmosphere is tranquil and visually appealing.