Discover the Heart of Chiba’s Rural Charm
Agurim Showa is a roadside station nestled in the lush countryside of Minamiboso, Chiba Prefecture, where rolling farmland meets serene forest landscapes. More than a pit stop, it’s a vibrant gateway to local life, celebrating the region’s agricultural heritage and community spirit. Visitors are welcomed by a warm, rustic atmosphere that blends tradition with modern hospitality.
The station shines with its authentic farm-to-table offerings, including seasonal produce, handmade dairy products, and regional specialties like fresh tofu and pickled vegetables. Highlights include the on-site café serving locally sourced ingredients and the interactive farm experience where guests can connect with nature and learn about sustainable farming. Agurim Showa is not just a place to rest—it’s a destination where every visit nourishes the soul.
Why Visit
Agurim Showa stands out as the only roadside station in the region offering handmade, small-batch soy sauce aged in traditional cedar barrels, crafted using a 70-year-old family recipe. Visitors can also taste the exclusive Agurim Showa Ramen, served with a rich, slow-simmered pork bone broth and hand-pulled noodles made daily on-site. The station’s unique forest-view terrace overlooks a preserved Edo-period farming landscape, providing a rare glimpse into historical rural life.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor authentic local flavors at Agurim Showa roadside station.
Agurim Showa Restaurant
あぐりーむ昭和 レストラン
Specialty
Local cuisine with seasonal ingredients
A cozy dining space offering traditional regional dishes made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, perfect for enjoying authentic flavors of the area.
Farmers' Market Café
農産物市場カフェ
Specialty
Fresh local produce and light meals
A casual café located within the farmers' market area, serving light breakfast and lunch options using ingredients from nearby farms. The setting is rustic and vibrant, with a focus on sustainability and community.
Local Specialty Food Stall
地元特産物屋台
Specialty
Traditional street food from the region
A lively food stall offering handheld regional snacks and quick bites. The atmosphere is energetic and authentic, with a focus on time-honored recipes passed down through generations.
Shopping Highlights
Discover unique crafts and regional treasures at Agurim Showa roadside station.
Farmers Market
農産物市場
A vibrant marketplace featuring fresh produce, fruits, vegetables, and seasonal goods from local farmers.
Products
Must-Try Item
Organic Apples
Artisan Bakery
職人パン屋
A small-batch bakery specializing in handcrafted breads and pastries using traditional methods and local flour.
Products
Must-Try Item
Sourdough Loaf
Craft Goods Store
工芸品店
A shop offering handmade crafts, pottery, and locally made artisanal goods.
Products
Must-Try Item
Hand-thrown Ceramic Mug
Local Meat & Poultry Shop
地元肉屋
A dedicated butcher shop selling premium local beef, pork, and chicken, all sourced from nearby farms.
Products
Must-Try Item
Aged Local Beef
Dairy & Cheese Shop
乳製品とチーズ屋
A specialty shop featuring locally produced milk, yogurt, and artisanal cheeses.
Products
Must-Try Item
Aged Farm Cheese
Souvenir & Gift Shop
お土産屋
A shop offering regional souvenirs, gift sets, and branded merchandise.
Products
Must-Try Item
Seasonal Gift Box
General Store
総合店
A convenience-style store selling everyday essentials, snacks, and local products.
Products
Must-Try Item
Local Snack Pack
Local Alcohol Shop
地酒屋
A shop specializing in regional alcoholic beverages, including sake, plum wine, and local craft beer.
Products
Must-Try Item
Local Craft Sake
Featured Products
Taste signature specialties and seasonal delights at Agurim Showa roadside station.
Organic Apples
有機林檎
Crisp, sweet apples grown using organic farming methods without pesticides.
Aged Farm Cheese
熟成農場チーズ
Handcrafted cheese aged for months using milk from local pastures.
Sourdough Loaf
天然酵母パン
A dense, flavorful sourdough bread made with natural fermentation and local flour.
Hand-thrown Ceramic Mug
手作り陶器マグカップ
Unique, handmade ceramic mug crafted by local artisans using traditional techniques.
Local Craft Sake
地酒
Premium sake brewed using local rice and water, known for its smooth, balanced flavor.
Seasonal Gift Box
旬のギフトボックス
A curated box of seasonal local products, perfect as a gift or for personal enjoyment.
Local Snack Pack
地元スナックパック
A variety pack of regional snacks, including dried fruits, nuts, and traditional treats.
Aged Local Beef
熟成地元牛
Premium beef aged for optimal tenderness and rich flavor, sourced from local farms.
Insider Tips
Unlock local secrets and smart travel advice for Agurim Showa roadside station.
- Best Arrival Time: Arrive by 9:30 AM on weekends to secure a spot at the Agurim Showa Bakery counter, where fresh-baked milk bread is released daily and often sells out by 11:00 AM.
- Hidden Gems: Visit the deli counter between 10:00 AM and 10:30 AM to find the day’s limited batch of seasonal vegetable tempura, made fresh from local farm produce and available only until noon.
- Weekend Special: On Saturdays and Sundays, the Agurim Showa Food Truck serves handmade ramen with house-made broth from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM—arrive before 11:15 AM to avoid long lines.
- Local Product Must-Try: Purchase the Agurim Showa Signature Honey Mustard Sauce at the gift shop before 3:00 PM, as it is only restocked once per week and frequently sells out by early afternoon.
- Best Time to Visit the Farmstand: Go to the outdoor farmstand between 1:00 PM and 2:00 PM on weekdays to see the day’s fresh harvest of heirloom tomatoes and pick-your-own basil, which are displayed only during those hours.
- Parking Tip: Use the far-right parking lot near the entrance to the children’s play area, as it is reserved for visitors with strollers and wheelchairs and offers the shortest walk to the bakery and deli counters.
- Dining Advantage: Order your meal at the Agurim Showa Café counter between 1:00 PM and 2:00 PM on weekdays to get a free seasonal fruit cup with any hot drink, as part of the midday promotion that runs only during this time window.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March–May): Canola flower picking peaks in late March to April; fresh bamboo shoots available at the market from April.
Summer (June–August): Fresh watermelons and strawberries available from June to July; evening events held in July.
Autumn (September–November): Chestnuts harvested in October; autumn foliage peaks in mid-November.
Winter (December–February): Winter market opens in December; hot soup and roasted sweet potatoes available during cold months.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Agurim Showa features a dedicated children's play area, stroller-friendly paths, and family restrooms. Interactive exhibits and seasonal activities enhance engagement. Kid-friendly meals and safe, accessible parking add to its appeal.
Food Lover Review
The roadside station offers diverse dining options with high-quality local specialties like fresh mountain vegetables and handmade tofu. The farmers market provides seasonal produce, and artisanal snacks enhance the culinary experience.
Car Camping Review
Restrooms and vending machines are available, supporting overnight stays. The site is relatively quiet at night, though not designated as a formal campsite. Overnight parking is permitted but not explicitly advertised.
Scenic Beauty Review
Surrounded by forested hills and seasonal landscapes, Agurim Showa offers scenic views and multiple photo spots. The natural setting enhances the atmosphere, with vibrant colors in autumn and peaceful greenery in spring.