Discover the Heart of Rural Japan at Kanra Roadside Station
Nestled in the serene countryside of Gunma Prefecture, Kanra Roadside Station is a welcoming gateway where tradition meets modern charm. Located in the scenic heart of the region, it sits at the crossroads of nature, agriculture, and community, offering travelers a genuine taste of local life. More than just a pit stop, it’s a vibrant cultural hub that connects visitors with the rhythms of rural Japan.
What sets Kanra apart is its hands-on heritage experiences, including silk cocoon weaving and crafting, allowing guests to engage directly with centuries-old techniques. The station also features a charming café, seasonal local products, and EV charging stations—making it a sustainable and enriching destination. With its warm hospitality and deep-rooted connection to the land, Kanra Roadside Station is where every journey feels like a story in the making.
Why Visit
Visit Kanra roadside station to experience hands-on silkworm cocoon weaving, a rare traditional craft preserved only here in the region. Savor the exclusive Kanra Milk Ice Cream, crafted from Jersey cow milk and available nowhere else. The station also features the only EV fast charger in the area, making it a must-stop for eco-conscious travelers seeking authentic local culture and convenience.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor authentic local flavors at Kanra roadside station.
Toscano & Bottaccio
トスカーノ＆ボッタッチョ
Specialty
Italian cuisine with a local twist
A cozy Italian-style restaurant offering a warm and inviting atmosphere with a focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The menu features traditional Italian dishes with seasonal variations.
Shopping Highlights
Discover unique crafts and regional treasures at Kanra roadside station.
Farmers Market
農産物直売所
A fresh produce market offering seasonal fruits, vegetables, and locally grown agricultural products.
Products
Must-Try Item
Local honey
Craft and Souvenir Shop
クラフト・お土産屋
A specialty store selling handmade crafts and regional souvenirs made by local artisans.
Products
Must-Try Item
Handcrafted silk cocoon art
Bakery
パン屋
A small bakery offering freshly baked bread, pastries, and traditional Japanese sweets.
Products
Must-Try Item
Sakura mochi
Dairy and Meat Market
乳製品・肉屋
A shop specializing in locally raised meat and fresh dairy products.
Products
Must-Try Item
Local beef
Alcohol Store
酒屋
A retail shop offering regional alcoholic beverages, including sake and local craft beer.
Products
Must-Try Item
Local sake
Featured Products
Taste signature specialties like silk-inspired treats and seasonal farm goods.
Local Honey
地元はちみつ
Pure, raw honey harvested from local wildflowers in the Kanra region, known for its rich flavor and natural aroma.
Handcrafted Silk Cocoon Art
手作り繭アート
Unique decorative art made from natural silk cocoons, showcasing traditional craftsmanship from the region.
Sakura Mochi
桜餅
Traditional Japanese rice cake wrapped in pickled cherry blossom leaf, sweet and delicate in flavor.
Local Beef
地元牛
Premium quality beef raised in the Kanra area, known for its tenderness and rich marbling.
Local Sake
地元酒
Artisanal sake brewed using traditional methods and local water, offering a smooth and distinctive taste.
Fresh Milk
新鮮な牛乳
Freshly produced milk from local dairy farms, delivered daily with no preservatives.
Cheese
チーズ
Artisan cheese made from locally sourced milk, with a creamy texture and subtle flavor.
Handmade Ceramics
手作り陶器
Unique ceramic pieces created by local artisans using traditional techniques and natural glazes.
Wooden Crafts
木工品
Sustainable wooden crafts made from locally harvested timber, ideal as souvenirs or home décor.
Traditional Wagashi
和菓子
Authentic Japanese sweets made with natural ingredients and seasonal flavors.
Facilities & Amenities
Enjoy convenient services including EV charging and rest areas at Kanra roadside station.
Parking
Parking is available at the roadside station.
Near the main entrance
Restroom
Public restrooms are available for visitors.
Inside the facility
Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi is available for guests.
Throughout the premises
Information Center
A visitor information center is available to provide local tourism and event information.
Front desk area
Play Area
A play area is available for children.
Near the outdoor seating area
Onsen
Hot spring baths are available for visitors.
Adjacent to the main building
Bike Rental
Bicycles can be rented for exploring the surrounding area.
Near the entrance
Nursing Room
A private nursing room is available for mothers with infants.
Inside the restroom area
EV Charging Station
Electric vehicle (EV) rapid charging is available.
Near the parking area
ATM
An ATM is available for cash withdrawals.
Near the entrance
Pet Area
A designated area for pets is available for owners to walk their animals.
Outside the main building
Activities & Experiences
Join hands-on workshops and seasonal events at Kanra roadside station.
Silk Cocoon Experience
座繰り体験・繭クラフト作り
Participants will experience the traditional process of silk reeling and create crafts using silkworm cocoons.
Duration
60 min
Insider Tips
Plan your visit around seasonal highlights and local events for the best experience at Kanra roadside station.
- Best Arrival Time: Arrive by 9:30 AM on weekends to secure a spot at the seat weaving experience, which begins at 10:00 AM and fills up quickly
- Hidden Gems: Visit the deli counter between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM to find the day’s limited batch of fresh-baked milk bread, which is made using local dairy and sold only during this window
- Weekend Special: On Saturdays and Sundays, the food truck "Toscano & Bottaccio" sets up at the southeast parking area from 11:30 AM to 2:00 PM, offering handmade pasta and seasonal Italian snacks
- EV Charging: Use the EV fast charger located near the main entrance—plug in between 8:00 AM and 6:00 PM to ensure availability, as the station supports only one vehicle at a time during peak hours
- Local Craft Experience: Sign up for the cocoon craft workshop at the activity room by 10:00 AM on weekdays, as sessions are limited to 10 participants and require advance registration via the roadside station’s phone line
- Special Menu Access: Try the new seasonal menu item “Yamato Curry Rice” at the café counter—it is only served from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM daily and is made with locally grown vegetables and heirloom rice
- Gift Voucher Use: Present a gift voucher at the main counter between 9:00 AM and 4:00 PM to receive a free local honey sample with any purchase over 1,000 yen
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March–May): Canola flowers bloom in late March to April, and fresh bamboo shoots are available at the market.
Summer (June–August): Mulberry leaves for silkworms are harvested in July, and silk-making experiences are offered.
Autumn (September–November): Silk cocoon crafting activities peak in October, and local harvests include chestnuts and sweet potatoes.
Winter (December–February): Limited seasonal events occur, with quiet visits ideal for enjoying the peaceful atmosphere.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Kanra offers hands-on activities like silkworm experiences and cocoon crafting, providing engaging educational fun. Play areas and family facilities are present, with stroller-friendly paths and accessible restrooms. Kid-friendly food options are available.
Food Lover Review
Kanra features diverse dining options including a new menu and local specialties. Fresh produce from the farmers market is available, and the site offers artisanal products. The quality and variety of food offerings are strong, with a focus on regional authenticity.
Car Camping Review
Kanra provides restrooms, vending machines, and EV charging stations, supporting basic car camping needs. The site is relatively quiet, though not specifically designed for overnight stays. Overnight parking is not clearly permitted, limiting its suitability.
Scenic Beauty Review
Kanra is set in a scenic rural landscape with pleasant natural surroundings. The site offers beautiful photo opportunities, especially in seasonal settings like spring and autumn. The overall atmosphere is peaceful and aesthetically pleasing.