Discover the Heart of Gifu’s Heritage at Kokon Densho no Sato Yamato
Nestled along National Route 156 in the serene town of Oda, Gifu Prefecture, Kokon Densho no Sato Yamato is a vibrant roadside station where tradition meets modern comfort. More than a pit stop, it’s a cultural gateway celebrating the region’s deep-rooted history, from ancient poetry to local craftsmanship. Surrounded by lush forests and rolling farmland, the station offers a tranquil escape for travelers seeking authenticity.
What sets this roadside station apart is its rich tapestry of experiences: savor the famed “Yakitori Chicken” made with local sake miso, enjoy fresh produce at the daily morning market, or unwind in the complimentary foot bath fed by the nearby Yama-to Onsen. With five dining options, a handmade bread shop, and seasonal events like the monthly “Yakitori Chicken Day,” there’s always something special to savor. The adjacent Yama-to Onsen Yuragi-Kan offers a rejuvenating retreat with diverse bathing experiences, from jet baths to salt saunas—perfect for restoring energy on your journey.
Why Visit
Visit Kokon Densho no Sato Yamato for its exclusive Kenchin Chicken—a regional specialty roasted with local Hōreki Miso and served with a side of handcrafted soy milk ice cream, a flavor only found here. The roadside station also features a free foot bath powered by the adjacent Yamato Onsen Yasuragi-kan, where visitors can soak in mineral-rich waters while enjoying views of the surrounding Hida Mountains.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor authentic regional flavors at Kokon Densho no Sato Yamato’s diverse restaurants and cafes.
Four Seasons Cuisine Restaurant Ogatama
四季食彩レストランおがたま
Specialty
Traditional regional cuisine with seasonal ingredients
A restaurant offering seasonal regional dishes in a serene atmosphere, perfect for enjoying the local flavors of Gifu Prefecture. The setting blends traditional Japanese aesthetics with modern comfort.
Kamaboko Specialty Restaurant
かにはさくら
Specialty
Specialty seafood dishes featuring local fish and eel
A specialty restaurant focused on high-quality seafood, particularly eel and local fish, prepared with traditional methods and regional flavors.
Yamato-style Chicken Restaurant
郡上大和の鶏ちゃん
Specialty
Local chicken dish prepared with traditional methods
A food stall specializing in tender, flavorful chicken cooked with local soy sauce and traditional techniques, ideal for all ages.
Mochi-dori Restaurant
ももちどり
Specialty
Farm-to-table cuisine using local vegetables
A farm-to-table restaurant that emphasizes fresh, locally sourced vegetables and seasonal ingredients in a tranquil setting.
Ice Cream and Yogurt Workshop
アイスクリーム・ヨーグルト工房
Specialty
Freshly made ice cream and yogurt
A cozy café offering handmade ice cream and yogurt using local dairy and seasonal fruits, perfect for a refreshing treat.
Shopping Highlights
Discover local crafts and seasonal treats at the roadside station’s vibrant market and specialty shops.
Kutsurogi Plaza
くつろぎ広場
A general marketplace offering a wide variety of local products, including fresh produce, handmade goods, and regional specialties.
Products
Must-Try Item
Local seasonal vegetables
Yamato Morning Market
郡上旬彩館やまとの朝市
A morning market featuring fresh local produce, seasonal vegetables, and regional specialties.
Products
Must-Try Item
Seasonal vegetables
Yamato Hot Spring Gift Shop
やまと温泉やすらぎ館売店
A souvenir shop located within the hot spring facility, offering bath products, local crafts, and wellness items.
Products
Must-Try Item
Original body soap
Gifu Yama Park Parking Area Shop
ぎふ大和パーキングエリア
A convenience shop at the parking area offering local specialties, snacks, and travel essentials.
Products
Must-Try Item
Local udon noodles
Field Museum Store
古今伝授の里フィールドミュージアム
A gift shop at the field museum offering cultural souvenirs, books, and handmade crafts inspired by local history and nature.
Products
Must-Try Item
Handmade crafts
Featured Products
Sample signature items like tender chicken dishes and traditional miso, crafted with local pride.
Natural Yam
自然薯
A locally grown, organic yam known for its rich flavor and high nutritional value.
Original Body Soap
オリジナルボディソープ
A handmade body soap inspired by the traditional bath culture of the region, made with natural ingredients.
Local Soy Sauce
宝暦味噌
A traditional soy sauce made using local ingredients and time-honored methods, perfect for enhancing regional dishes.
Seasonal Fruit Jam
旬果実ジャム
Jam made from fresh, locally harvested seasonal fruits, preserving the natural taste of the region.
Handmade Craft Set
手づくり工芸セット
A set of handmade crafts made by local artisans, ideal as a souvenir or gift.
Facilities & Amenities
Relax with free foot baths, modern restrooms, and convenient amenities throughout the station.
Parking Area
The roadside station is located near Gifu-Yamato IC on the Tōkai-Hokuriku Expressway, with space for 196 regular cars and 8 large vehicles.
Near Gifu-Yamato IC on the Tōkai-Hokuriku Expressway
Restroom
The facility includes 10 male toilets and 16 female toilets, with a ramp and facilities for people with ostomies.
Inside the roadside station
Free Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi is available at the roadside station.
Throughout the facility
Information Center
The roadside station features an information corner providing tourism guidance and local product sales.
Inside the roadside station
Children's Play Area
The facility includes a children's playground and a relaxation plaza with local products and handmade bread.
Inside the roadside station
Yamato Onsen Yasuragi-kan
A modern Japanese-style hot spring facility themed around 'bathing,' featuring jet baths, salt saunas, and floating baths. It also includes massage rooms, a store, and dining areas. The onsen is known as 'Kotoi no Yu'.
Adjacent to the roadside station
EV Charging Station
An electric vehicle charging station is available at the roadside station.
Near the parking area
ATM
An ATM is available for visitors' convenience.
Near the entrance of the roadside station
Pet-Friendly Area
The facility includes a designated pet area, allowing visitors to bring their pets.
Outside the main building, near the parking area
Activities & Experiences
Enjoy seasonal markets, hands-on workshops, and immersive cultural experiences on site.
Free Foot Bath
足湯（無料）
Relax and soothe your feet in the free foot bath located at the roadside station, which uses water from the nearby Yamato Onsen hot spring.
Duration
30 min
Best enjoyed during cooler weather; avoid use during extreme heat.
Morning Market
やまとの朝市
Visit the local morning market to purchase fresh, regional vegetables and seasonal produce directly from local farmers.
Duration
120 min
Open daily except on Tuesdays and holidays; check for seasonal closures.
Local Cuisine Restaurant
四季食彩レストランおがたま
Enjoy regional dishes such as 'Kokin Chicken' made with local 'Hōreki Miso', served in a cozy dining setting.
Duration
90 min
Ice Cream and Yogurt Workshop
アイスクリーム・ヨーグルト工房
Participate in a hands-on experience to learn how to make homemade ice cream and yogurt using local ingredients.
Duration
60 min
Indoor activity; suitable for all weather conditions.
Onsen Experience
やまと温泉やすらぎ館
Enjoy a relaxing soak in a variety of hot spring baths, including jet baths, salt saunas, and floating baths, all designed for health and beauty.
Duration
120 min
Best experienced after outdoor activities; avoid if you have open wounds or health concerns.
Wedding Ceremony Consultation
ウェディングのご相談・予約受付中
Consult with staff about hosting a wedding ceremony at the roadside station, including venue setup and catering options.
Duration
60 min
Indoor event; weather does not affect planning.
Insider Tips
Visit on the 20th for special chicken deals and plan your trip around the weekly morning market.
- Best Arrival Time: Visit between 8:30 AM and 9:00 AM on weekdays to secure the freshest produce from the Yamato no Asaichi (Yamato Morning Market) before it sells out, especially the seasonal vegetables and homemade miso from local farmers.
- Hidden Gems: Stop at the Kuturogi Café & Bakery counter inside the Kutsurogi Plaza to try the limited-edition seasonal milk bread, which is only available on the first Saturday of each month and sells out quickly.
- Weekend Special: On the 20th of every month, visit the Yamato no Asaichi and ask for the "Kichan Day" special—a discounted portion of the signature Kichan Chicken (a tender, locally made chicken dish using authentic Hakuritsu Miso), served only at the main restaurant during that event.
- Foot Bath Tip: After parking, walk directly to the free foot bath area located just past the entrance of the Yamato Onsen Yasuragi-kan—it’s open from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM daily and offers a relaxing soak with natural spring water, perfect for easing tired legs after a long drive.
- Best Food Experience: Order the Kanihasakura Yama no Kuchi (Suzuki Salt Grilled Eel) at the Shiki Shokuzai Restaurant Ogatama—this dish is only available during the summer months and is prepared using local river eel caught in the Kiso River, served with seasonal vegetables.
- Unique Souvenir: Purchase the Yamato Onsen Yasuragi-kan’s original body soap at the Yasuragi-kan gift shop—it’s made with natural spring water and local herbs, and is sold exclusively at this location, not online.
- Event Timing: Plan your visit on a Saturday or Sunday to catch the Kichan Chicken Festival at the Kutsurogi Plaza, where live cooking demonstrations are held from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM, and free samples of the famous chicken dish are offered.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March–May): Peak season for the Yama no Asaichi market (8:30–16:00) featuring fresh local vegetables and seasonal produce.
Summer (June–August): Enjoy the free foot bath and summer-themed events at the roadside station, with peak visitation from July to August.
Autumn (September–November): Visit during the monthly Chicken Day (20th) and experience seasonal specialties like grilled ayu and natural yam dishes.
Winter (December–February): Experience the cozy atmosphere with extended hours at the hot spring bath and reduced market hours (9:00–16:00).
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Features a dedicated children's playground, stroller-friendly paths, and kid-friendly food options like yogurt and ice cream. The foot bath and rest areas are safe and accessible, with educational elements from local culture and seasonal events.
Food Lover Review
Offers five diverse restaurants, including a local specialty chicken dish and regional delicacies like yam and eel. The morning market and craft bakery provide fresh, high-quality local produce and artisanal goods.
Car Camping Review
Provides ample parking, clean restrooms, and vending machines. The quiet setting and nearby foot bath support overnight comfort, though no explicit overnight stay policy is listed.
Scenic Beauty Review
Surrounded by natural landscapes with seasonal variety, including views of mountains and forests. Offers scenic viewpoints and photo spots, enhanced by the harmonious design of the field museum and nearby natural environment.