Discover the Heart of Gunma’s Rural Charm
Nestled along National Route 17 in the scenic town of Shibukawa, Komochi is more than a roadside station—it’s a vibrant gateway to the region’s agricultural heritage and community spirit. Located in the peaceful village of Shirai, this well-loved destination offers travelers a true taste of local life, where fresh produce, handmade crafts, and regional specialties come together in one welcoming space.
Visitors are drawn to Komochi’s standout offerings: the beloved Katsudon made with tender, locally raised Upashu pork, and the bustling Furusato Honten market, where farm-fresh vegetables, seasonal fruits, and artisanal goods are proudly displayed. With a spacious event plaza, 24-hour restrooms, and a strong commitment to sustainability—supported by the local Shibupay digital currency—Komochi is a dynamic hub for both locals and travelers seeking authentic experiences.
Why Visit
Visit Komochi roadside station to savor the region’s only authentic katsudon made with tender, locally raised 上州 pig (Ushu pork), a dish celebrated for its rich, melt-in-the-mouth texture and deep regional flavor. Beyond the meal, explore the only on-site Jersey cow milk ice cream in the area, crafted daily from fresh, locally sourced milk—available only here. These unique offerings, paired with the station’s vibrant seasonal events and dedicated farm-to-table marketplace, create an experience you won’t find anywhere else along the route.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor authentic local flavors at Komochi roadside station, where fresh regional ingredients shine in hearty, handcrafted meals.
Food Creation An
食創庵
Specialty
Famous for soft, chewy, and delicious Utsunomi pork katsudon
A restaurant specializing in local cuisine with a focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, perfect for a relaxing meal after a day of travel or sightseeing.
Sixth Tea House
六斎茶屋
Specialty
Local snacks and traditional Japanese beverages
A casual food stall offering light meals and refreshing drinks, ideal for a quick bite or a relaxing break during your visit.
Shopping Highlights
Discover a vibrant selection of local crafts, seasonal produce, and regional specialties at Komochi's welcoming shop.
Local Specialty Store
ふるさと物産館
A retail shop offering a wide variety of local products from Gunma Prefecture and Komochi, including agricultural goods, processed foods, and handmade crafts.
Products
Must-Try Item
Utsunomi Pork Jerky
Bakery
パン屋
A small bakery specializing in fresh, handmade bread and pastries using local ingredients.
Products
Must-Try Item
Honey Wheat Bread
Craft Store
工芸品店
A specialty store offering handmade crafts and traditional artisanal products from the region.
Products
Must-Try Item
Handmade Pottery
Featured Products
Explore signature goods like savory 上州 pork dishes and artisanal treats made with pride from the Komochi region.
Utsunomi Pork Jerky
上州豚のちりめん肉
Dried, savory jerky made from high-quality Utsunomi pork, known for its tender texture and rich flavor.
Gunma Green Tea
群馬の抹茶
Premium green tea sourced from local farms in Gunma Prefecture, known for its vibrant color and smooth taste.
Handmade Pottery Set
手作り陶器セット
A set of handcrafted ceramic dishes made by local artisans using traditional techniques.
Local Honey
地元はちみつ
Pure, natural honey harvested from local beekeepers in the Komochi region, known for its floral aroma and smooth texture.
Seasonal Fruit Jam
旬の果物ジャム
Handmade jam made from fresh, seasonal fruits grown in the region, with no added preservatives.
Facilities & Amenities
Relax and recharge with spacious rest areas, clean public toilets, and ample parking at Komochi roadside station.
Parking Lot
The roadside station provides ample parking space with 179 standard car spaces, 41 large vehicle spaces, 2 disabled parking spaces, and 1 electric vehicle rapid charging station. The parking lot is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
Located at the roadside station premises
Public Toilets
24-hour accessible public toilets are available year-round. There are 18 male toilets (including 3 Western-style, 2 Japanese-style, and 13 urinals) and 18 female toilets (including 12 Western-style and 6 Japanese-style). Two multi-purpose toilets are also available for all users.
Located throughout the roadside station premises
Wi-Fi
Wi-Fi service is available at the roadside station for visitors.
Throughout the facility
Information Center
The roadside station includes an information center that provides guidance and assistance to visitors, including details about local attractions, events, and services.
Located at the roadside station reception area
Play Area
The roadside station features a play area for children, ideal for families visiting the station.
Located within the outdoor event plaza
Onsen
The roadside station does not have an onsen.
Bike Rental
The roadside station does not offer bike rental services.
Nursing Room
The roadside station provides a nursing room for mothers with infants, located within the public restroom area.
Inside the public toilets area
EV Charging Station
One electric vehicle rapid charging station is available for use. Detailed information can be found on the Shibukawa City website.
Located in the parking lot
ATM
An ATM is available at the roadside station for visitor convenience.
Located near the entrance
Pet Area
The roadside station does not have a designated pet area.
Insider Tips
Visit during off-peak hours for a quieter experience and take advantage of the local Shibupay discount at select vendors.
- Best Arrival Time: Visit between 9:00 AM and 9:30 AM on weekdays to secure a seat at the food court before the lunch rush, as the dining area fills quickly after 10:00 AM.
- Hidden Gems: At the deli counter in the food court, look for the shirataki noodles with miso broth served daily from 11:00 AM—this seasonal specialty sells out by 1:00 PM and is not listed on the menu board.
- Weekend Special: On weekends, arrive by 10:00 AM to access the pop-up farmers' market at the covered outdoor plaza, where local producers from Shibuoka City sell fresh mountain-grown shiitake mushrooms and honey from local beekeepers—available only until 1:00 PM.
- Best Value Purchase: Buy the local rice and soy sauce combo pack at the furusato gift shop between 3:00 PM and 4:00 PM, as it is discounted by 15% during the afternoon promotion window.
- Off-Peak Relaxation: Use the rest area with massage chairs located near the public toilets between 2:00 PM and 3:00 PM on weekdays—this quiet time sees fewer visitors and is ideal for a midday break.
- Event Access: If attending a live music event in the covered outdoor plaza, arrive by 1:00 PM to claim a shaded bench near the stage, as seating fills by 2:30 PM and no additional space is available.
- Eco-Friendly Tip: Use the EV fast charger located in the main parking lot by 9:30 AM on weekends—this spot is reserved for early arrivals and is often occupied by 10:00 AM due to high demand.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March–May): Peak season for fresh bamboo shoots and early-season canola flower viewing (late March–April).
Summer (June–August): Fresh local produce like tomatoes and cucumbers at their peak; ideal for enjoying outdoor markets.
Autumn (September–November): Harvest season for chestnuts and persimmons; annual autumn festival held in November.
Winter (December–February): Cozy visits to the heated food stalls; winter special dishes available through February.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Offers ample parking, stroller-friendly pathways, and 24-hour accessible restrooms with multiple family and accessible facilities. While no dedicated play area is mentioned, the presence of outdoor event space and varied food options supports family visits.
Food Lover Review
Features multiple dining options including a popular local dish, 上州豚 (Ushū pork) katsudon, and a variety of regional products in the souvenir shop. Fresh local produce and seasonal specialties enhance the culinary experience.
Car Camping Review
Provides 24-hour access to restrooms and ample parking, but lacks designated overnight camping zones. No specific overnight parking policy is listed, and the facility is not designed for extended stays.
Scenic Beauty Review
Located along a major highway with scenic views of surrounding rural landscapes. Offers good photo opportunities, especially from the live camera viewpoint. Seasonal beauty is enhanced by nearby farmland and natural scenery.