Savor the Heart of the Mountains at Shirao Fureai Park
Nestled in the serene countryside of Gifu Prefecture’s Kamo District, Shirao Fureai Park is more than a roadside station—it’s a celebration of local tradition, fresh produce, and authentic mountain hospitality. Located just five minutes from the Shiroi Interchange, this welcoming stop invites travelers to pause, connect, and discover the flavors of rural Japan.
At the heart of the station is the vibrant Fresh Morning Market, where seasonal vegetables, heirloom rice from the Sixno-ri terraced fields, and handcrafted pickles like shiso-plum and miso are proudly displayed. Don’t miss the summer favorite—freshly harvested fruit corn, perfect eaten straight from the cob. With cozy cafés serving hearty local fare, including the beloved Kei-chan set and homemade takoyaki with plum, every bite tells a story of community and care.
Why Visit
Shirao Fureai Park stands out for its authentic connection to the region’s agricultural heritage, offering the only known roadside station in the area where visitors can purchase freshly harvested kamome rice—a rare, heirloom variety grown in the terraced fields of the local Rokunori district. Beyond rice, the station features the exclusive umeboshi-tako—a savory tinned snack of grilled octopus with pickled plum—available nowhere else. For a true taste of local tradition, the Kai-chan Set at Cherry Café, made with this same rice, delivers a meal rooted in community and seasonality.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor authentic local flavors at Shirao Fureai Park roadside station, where home-style meals and fresh seasonal dishes await.
Cherry Cafe
喫茶チェリー
Specialty
Local rice-based meals
A cozy and relaxed dining space offering meals made with locally grown Nagano rice (Koshihikari) from the Rokuno-ri area. Known for its homely atmosphere and traditional local cuisine.
Mother's Shop
おかあちゃんの店
Specialty
Homemade scallion pancakes
A small, family-run food stall offering simple, comforting home-style meals. Known for its nostalgic, rustic flavor and warm service.
Shopping Highlights
Discover a variety of regional treasures and farm-fresh produce at Shirao Fureai Park roadside station’s vibrant market stalls.
Fresh Morning Market
新鮮朝市
A daily market featuring fresh seasonal vegetables, flowers, and local rice from the Rokuno-ri terraced fields.
Products
Must-Try Item
Rokuno-ri Terraced Rice
Local Specialty Store
お土産品販売
A shop specializing in regional specialties and souvenirs, including local sake and traditional pickled plums.
Products
Must-Try Item
Plum Pickles
White Tail Handmade Shop
白尾手づくりの店
A takeout shop offering unique handmade snacks and seasonal treats.
Products
Must-Try Item
Plum-Infused Takoyaki
Featured Products
Try signature specialties like plum-infused pickled plums, traditional soy sauce, and locally crafted miso, all made with pride.
Plum Pickles
しそ漬け梅
Traditional pickled plums with shiso leaves, known for their tangy and aromatic flavor.
Local Miso
味噌
Authentic regional miso made from locally grown soybeans, offering a rich, savory taste.
Local Soy Sauce
醤油
Handcrafted soy sauce made using traditional methods and local ingredients.
Fresh Fruits Corn
フルーツコーン
Sweet, juicy corn that can be eaten fresh, popular during summer months.
Rokuno-ri Terraced Rice
六ノ里地区の棚田米
High-quality rice grown in the terraced fields of the Rokuno-ri area, known for its soft texture and rich flavor.
Facilities & Amenities
Enjoy comfortable rest areas, clean restrooms, and helpful information desks designed for a relaxed and convenient stop.
Parking Area
The roadside station has parking spaces for 46 regular vehicles and 5 large vehicles, including 2 designated spaces for people with disabilities.
Near the main entrance
Restroom
There are 4 male toilets and 4 female toilets available. The facility includes a ramp for accessibility.
Inside the main building
Free Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi is available for visitors at the roadside station.
Throughout the facility
Information Center
The roadside station features an information corner with local road information, brochures about surrounding areas, and educational displays by local elementary students.
Near the entrance and adjacent to the snack shop
Play Area
The station offers a relaxing, nature-filled environment suitable for families and children to enjoy.
Outdoor area near the main parking and rest area
Nursing Room
A private space is available for mothers to care for infants and young children.
Inside the main building
EV Charging Station
Electric vehicle charging facilities are available for visitors.
Near the parking area
ATM
An ATM is available for visitors to access banking services.
Near the entrance
Insider Tips
Visit early to catch fresh morning produce and plan your trip around local events for the best experience.
- Best Arrival Time: Visit between 7:30 AM and 8:00 AM on weekdays to secure the first selection of fresh seasonal vegetables and homemade pickled plums (shiso-musubi umeboshi) from the morning market, as they often sell out by mid-morning.
- Hidden Gems: At the White Tail Handmade Shop, try the shiso-filled takoyaki—uniquely flavored with local pickled shiso and served with a tangy soy sauce base—available only during summer months.
- Weekend Special: On weekends, visit the White Tail Handmade Shop before 11:00 AM to get the day’s limited batch of kakiage udon, which is only prepared once daily and sells out quickly.
- Local Taste Tip: Order the Kei-chan set at Cherry Café between 10:00 AM and 12:00 PM to enjoy the full experience, as this dish is made with fresh local rice and served with a seasonal vegetable side that changes weekly.
- Best Value Purchase: Buy the regional miso and soy sauce directly from the specialty store before 4:00 PM on weekdays, as the shop offers a 10% discount on bulk purchases of two or more bottles.
- Off-Peak Visit: Go to the information counter between 1:00 PM and 2:00 PM on non-holiday weekdays to speak with the local students who present their learning projects—these sessions are only held on the hour and are not available during peak hours.
- Seasonal Must-Try: In summer, visit the White Tail Handmade Shop between 12:00 PM and 3:00 PM to enjoy the homemade kakigōri (shaved ice) with seasonal fruit syrups, which is only available during the summer months and is made fresh daily.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March–May): Fresh bamboo shoots available at the morning market; peak season for seasonal vegetables and early harvest of local rice.
Summer (June–August): Fresh fruit corn sold from July; popular seasonal treats like shaved ice and grilled skewers available.
Autumn (September–November): Harvest season for local rice and autumn vegetables; ideal for enjoying home-style meals and regional produce.
Winter (December–February): Limited hours; best for quiet visits and local specialty products like pickled plums and soy sauce.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Offers a children's play area, stroller-friendly paths, and interactive learning corners. Features kid-friendly food like takoyaki with plums and fresh seasonal treats. Safe, accessible, and family-oriented with engaging local activities.
Food Lover Review
Features diverse local cuisine including specialty pickled plums, soy sauce, miso, and seasonal corn. Offers fresh produce from local farmers and unique handmade snacks like plum takoyaki and homemade ramen. High-quality regional flavors.
Car Camping Review
Provides basic facilities including restrooms, vending machines, and ample parking. Quiet environment with scenic views suitable for overnight stays. No explicit overnight parking policy, but convenient for short stops.
Scenic Beauty Review
Located in a natural setting with views of rice terraces and surrounding countryside. Offers excellent photo opportunities and seasonal beauty, especially during cherry blossom and autumn foliage seasons. Calming, aesthetically pleasing atmosphere.