Discover the Heart of Kurohone’s Natural Bounty
Kurohone Yamabiko roadside station lies nestled in the serene embrace of the Kurohone mountains, where lush forests meet rolling farmland in the quiet countryside of Gunma Prefecture. More than a mere stop along the road, this roadside station is a vibrant celebration of local culture, craftsmanship, and seasonal abundance. Surrounded by nature and steeped in tradition, it offers travelers a rare glimpse into rural Japan’s enduring spirit.
Visitors are drawn to its distinctive offerings, including handmade mountain vegetables, premium regional dairy products, and seasonal treats like the famous Kurohone Yamabiko ice cream. The station also showcases local artisans, with handcrafted goods and farm-fresh produce available for purchase. Whether savoring a warm cup of local coffee or browsing artisanal souvenirs, every visit feels like a meaningful connection to the land and its people.
Why Visit
Kurohone Yamabiko stands out as the only roadside station in the region offering handmade milk ice cream crafted from fresh Jersey cow milk sourced exclusively from local highland farms. Visitors can also experience the rare, traditional "Kakirinngo" dumplings—steamed parcels of mountain herb-filled dough unique to this valley. With panoramic views of the Kurohone Plateau and access to the only public trail leading to the ancient Yama-no-Kami Shrine, this station delivers a one-of-a-kind blend of alpine culture, artisanal taste, and secluded natural beauty.
Restaurants & Dining
At Kurohone Yamabiko roadside station, savor authentic regional flavors in a welcoming atmosphere.
Kurohone Yamabiko Restaurant
くろほね・やまびこ
Specialty
Traditional mountain cuisine with local ingredients
A cozy restaurant offering authentic regional dishes made from fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The atmosphere is warm and rustic, perfect for enjoying hearty meals in a serene mountain setting.
Yamabiko Café
やまびこカフェ
Specialty
Homemade pastries and local coffee
A charming café serving freshly baked goods and locally roasted coffee in a peaceful, nature-inspired setting. Ideal for relaxing with a book or enjoying a quiet moment.
Tougann Specialty Stall
とうがん専門店
Specialty
Handcrafted dried mountain vegetables
A small food stall specializing in dried mountain vegetables, offering a taste of the region's natural bounty. The stall is known for its traditional preparation methods and authentic flavor.
Shopping Highlights
Discover unique local crafts and seasonal goods at Kurohone Yamabiko roadside station.
Kakirinngo Craft Shop
かきりんご
A shop specializing in handmade crafts and artisanal goods made from natural materials found in the region.
Products
Must-Try Item
Handwoven bamboo basket
Namara Kasei Farm Market
なまりかせい
A farmers' market showcasing fresh produce, dairy, and homemade goods from local farms and artisans.
Products
Must-Try Item
Local organic eggs
Yamabiko Souvenir Shop
やまびこおみやげ
A souvenir shop offering unique, locally themed gifts and memorabilia from the Kurohone Yamabiko roadside station.
Products
Must-Try Item
Yamabiko-themed tote bag
Iburi Dai Konno Souvenir Shop
いぶりだいこんの
A shop dedicated to selling products inspired by the local daikon radish and regional culture.
Products
Must-Try Item
Spicy Daikon Pickle
Featured Products
Sample signature specialties like mountain herbs, local honey, and traditional snacks at Kurohone Yamabiko.
Mountain Vegetable Dried Mix
山菜乾物ミックス
A premium blend of dried mountain vegetables harvested from the region, perfect for soups and stews.
Mountain Herb Tea
山草茶
A naturally brewed tea made from wild herbs collected in the local mountains, known for its calming properties.
Local Honey
地元ハチミツ
Pure, raw honey harvested from wildflowers in the surrounding forests, offering a unique regional flavor.
Yamabiko Ice Cream
やまびこアイス
Creamy ice cream made with local milk and seasonal fruits, available in unique regional flavors.
Daikon Radish Pickle
大根漬け
A traditional pickle made from locally grown daikon radish, seasoned with natural spices.
Facilities & Amenities
Relax and recharge with clean restrooms, seating areas, and convenient parking at Kurohone Yamabiko.
Information Center
The information center is open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with extended hours from 10:30 AM to 2:30 PM on weekends and holidays. It provides assistance and information about the surrounding area and local attractions.
Near the main entrance of the roadside station
Parking Area
Ample parking space is available for visitors and travelers. The parking area is located near the main entrance and is suitable for cars and buses.
Near the main entrance
Restrooms
Clean and well-maintained restrooms are available for visitors. Facilities include accessible toilets and baby-changing stations.
Throughout the premises, near the main building
Free Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the roadside station for visitors' convenience.
Throughout the premises
Children's Play Area
A dedicated play area for children featuring safe equipment and open space for outdoor activities.
Near the central courtyard
Hot Spring Bath
A traditional hot spring bath facility is available for relaxation and wellness. The bath is open to visitors and features natural hot spring water.
Adjacent to the main building
Bicycle Rental
Bicycles can be rented on-site for exploring the surrounding area. Rentals are available by the hour or day.
Near the entrance to the outdoor area
Nursing Room
A private and comfortable nursing room is available for mothers with infants. It includes seating, a changing table, and privacy.
Inside the main building, near the restrooms
Electric Vehicle Charging Station
Charging stations for electric vehicles are available for visitors. The station supports standard EV charging and is located near the parking area.
Near the main parking lot
ATM
An ATM is available on-site for cash withdrawals. It is accessible during the roadside station's operating hours.
Near the entrance
Pet-Friendly Area
A designated pet area allows visitors to walk their dogs in a safe and clean environment. It includes waste disposal bins and water stations.
Outside the main building, near the garden
Insider Tips
Visit early to avoid crowds and ask staff for hidden gems and seasonal highlights at Kurohone Yamabiko.
- Best Arrival Time: Visit between 9:00 AM and 10:00 AM on weekdays to secure the day’s first batch of freshly baked milk bread from the in-house bakery, which sells out by 11:00 AM
- Hidden Gems: Check the deli counter near the entrance for the seasonal Kurohone Yamabiko Special Cheese, a limited-edition product made with local dairy and available only during the spring and autumn months
- Weekend Special: On Saturdays and Sundays, visit the food truck area near the parking lot between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM to try the exclusive Kurohone Yamabiko Ramen Burger, a local favorite made with handmade noodles and beef from nearby farms
- Must-Try Product: Purchase the 1kg package of Kurohone Yamabiko Salted Butter at the main retail counter—this artisanal product is only available at this roadside station and is ideal for cooking traditional regional dishes
- Best Photo Spot: Take a photo at the stone archway entrance labeled “Kurohone Yamabiko” with the mountain backdrop visible behind it—this view is especially striking during sunrise before 7:30 AM
- Local Insider Tip: If you’re visiting in the evening, head to the outdoor seating area near the stream at 5:00 PM to enjoy the free evening light show that features projected mountain silhouettes onto the trees
- Souvenir Shortcut: Buy the 120ml bottle of Kurohone Yamabiko Matcha Ice Cream Syrup from the front counter—this is the only location in the region where it’s sold, and it’s perfect for making homemade desserts at home
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March–May): Canola flowers bloom in late March to April, and fresh bamboo shoots are available at the roadside station market.
Summer (June–August): Fresh mountain vegetables and summer fruits are harvested and sold from June through August.
Autumn (September–November): Autumn harvest season features local chestnuts and dried persimmons available from September to November.
Winter (December–February): Hot soups and roasted chestnuts are served, and the roadside station hosts winter light displays in December.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Kurohone Yamabiko roadside station features a play area, stroller-friendly paths, and family facilities. It offers child-friendly food options and interactive educational displays about local nature and agriculture.
Food Lover Review
The station provides diverse dining choices with high-quality local specialties like regional vegetables, fresh produce, and artisanal goods. The market offers premium seasonal items and unique regional snacks.
Car Camping Review
It has clean restrooms and vending machines suitable for overnight stays. The area is relatively quiet, though not designated for camping. Overnight parking is permitted but not explicitly advertised.
Scenic Beauty Review
The roadside station offers scenic mountain views and well-maintained viewpoints. It features seasonal beauty with varied landscapes and a peaceful, aesthetically pleasing atmosphere.