Discover the Heart of Chiba’s Countryside at Shirasawa Roadside Station
Nestled in the quiet village of Miyoshi, Shirasawa Roadside Station lies at the crossroads of lush forests and fertile farmland, offering a true taste of rural Chiba. More than just a pit stop, it’s a vibrant gateway where travelers connect with local culture, agriculture, and community spirit.
Here, visitors can savor fresh, seasonal produce from nearby farms, sample artisanal dairy products, and enjoy handcrafted snacks made with regional ingredients. The station also features a charming farmer’s market, a cozy café, and interactive experiences that bring the region’s heritage to life—making it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking authentic, off-the-beaten-path charm.
Why Visit
Shirasawa roadside station stands out for its exclusive artisanal milk ice cream, crafted daily from fresh Jersey cow milk sourced only from local farms in the region. Visitors can also experience the rare sight of traditional rice straw weaving demonstrations, a craft preserved here by master artisans. The station’s seasonal vegetable garden, open for self-harvesting, offers unique produce like heirloom purple carrots and early-season daikon, unavailable elsewhere.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor authentic local flavors at Shirasawa roadside station.
Shirasawa Farm Restaurant
白沢農場レストラン
Specialty
Fresh farm-to-table dining with seasonal ingredients
A cozy restaurant located within the roadside station, offering a warm atmosphere with a focus on locally sourced, seasonal ingredients. The menu emphasizes traditional Japanese cuisine with a modern twist, using produce grown on-site.
Soba Noodle House
そばの家
Specialty
Handmade soba noodles with regional ingredients
A traditional-style noodle shop specializing in handmade soba noodles. The atmosphere is rustic and welcoming, with a focus on authentic preparation methods passed down through generations.
Local Fruit Juice Bar
地元フルーツジュースバー
Specialty
Freshly squeezed fruit juices from regional produce
A bright and cheerful juice bar offering a variety of freshly squeezed fruit juices made from locally grown fruits. The space is casual and ideal for a quick refreshment.
Farmers Market Food Stall
農産物市場フードスタンド
Specialty
Quick street food made from local ingredients
A lively food stall offering quick, affordable meals made with fresh, local ingredients. The atmosphere is casual and bustling, perfect for a mid-day bite.
Shopping Highlights
Discover unique crafts and regional treasures at Shirasawa roadside station.
Farmers Market
農産物市場
A marketplace featuring fresh produce, vegetables, and seasonal fruits directly from local farms.
Products
Must-Try Item
Freshly Harvested Strawberries
Bakery Corner
ベーカリー角
A small bakery offering freshly baked bread, pastries, and seasonal treats made with local ingredients.
Products
Must-Try Item
Honey Wheat Bread
Craft and Souvenir Shop
工芸品とお土産屋
A shop selling handmade crafts and regional souvenirs, including locally made pottery, textiles, and gift items.
Products
Must-Try Item
Local Clay Mug
Local Meat and Dairy Store
地元肉と乳製品店
A specialty store offering locally raised meat and dairy products, including fresh beef, milk, and cheese.
Products
Must-Try Item
Aged Local Beef
Alcohol and Beverage Shop
酒類と飲料販売店
A shop specializing in regional alcoholic beverages, including local sake, fruit liqueurs, and craft beer.
Products
Must-Try Item
Strawberry Sake
Featured Products
Taste the essence of the region with signature specialties and seasonal treats.
Strawberry Jam
イチゴジャム
A rich, naturally sweet jam made from locally grown strawberries, perfect for toast or desserts.
Farm Fresh Honey
農場直送はちみつ
Pure, unfiltered honey harvested from local beehives, known for its floral and sweet flavor.
Soba Noodle Gift Set
そば粉ギフトセット
A premium set of handmade soba noodles and dipping sauce, ideal as a gift or for home cooking.
Local Sake
地元日本酒
A smooth, aromatic sake brewed using traditional methods and local rice.
Herb Dried Mix
ハーブドライミックス
A blend of dried local herbs, ideal for seasoning soups, stews, and grilled dishes.
Facilities & Amenities
Enjoy comfortable amenities and convenient services at Shirasawa roadside station.
Parking Area
A parking area is available for visitors.
Near the entrance of the roadside station
Restroom
Public restrooms are provided for visitors.
Inside the main building
Free Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi access is available throughout the roadside station.
Throughout the facility
Information Center
An information center offering local guides, maps, and assistance.
Near the entrance
Children's Play Area
A safe play area for children with various toys and equipment.
Adjacent to the main parking area
Hot Spring Bath
A public hot spring bath facility for relaxation and wellness.
On the second floor of the building
Bicycle Rental
Bicycles can be rented for exploring the surrounding area.
Near the entrance
Nursing Room
A private room equipped for breastfeeding and baby care.
Inside the main building
EV Charging Station
Electric vehicle charging stations are available for visitors.
Near the parking area
ATM
An ATM is available for cash withdrawals.
Near the entrance
Pet Area
A designated area for pets to rest and relieve themselves.
Outside near the parking lot
Insider Tips
Learn local secrets and practical advice for making the most of your visit.
- Best Arrival Time: Arrive by 9:30 AM on weekends to secure a spot at the bakery counter where fresh-baked milk bread is released—this item sells out by 11:00 AM and is not restocked.
- Hidden Gems: Visit the deli counter between 10:00 AM and 11:30 AM to find the limited-edition seasonal pickled vegetables made with local cabbage and radish, which are only available during summer months.
- Weekend Special: On Saturdays and Sundays, head to the outdoor food truck area near the parking lot between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM to sample the grilled local fish skewers, a rotating menu item made with fish caught that morning from the nearby coast.
- Best Time for Local Produce: Stop by the farmers’ market stall located beside the main entrance between 8:30 AM and 10:00 AM to buy the day’s first harvest of strawberries and tomatoes, which are picked before sunrise and sold only on the same day.
- Must-Try Product: Purchase the Shirasawa Forest Honey from the gift shop counter before 12:00 PM—this locally produced honey is only available in small batches and is sold out by midday.
- Parking Tip: Use the east-side parking lot, which is closer to the bakery and food truck area, as the main lot fills up quickly by 10:30 AM on weekends.
- Free Activity: Join the free guided walking tour of the surrounding forest trail departing from the information desk at 10:00 AM daily—it highlights native plant species and the history of the area’s traditional farming practices.
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 strawberries are harvested in June, and the roadside station hosts seasonal farm events.
Autumn (September–November): Autumn vegetables like sweet potatoes and pumpkins are harvested in September and October.
Winter (December–February): Hot ramen and seasonal root vegetables are featured, with cozy winter markets running from December.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Shirasawa roadside station features a children's play area, stroller-friendly paths, and family-friendly dining. Interactive exhibits and safe, accessible facilities enhance the experience for young visitors.
Food Lover Review
The station offers diverse local specialties, fresh seasonal produce from the farmers market, and high-quality artisanal food products. Dining options include regional cuisine and unique local snacks.
Car Camping Review
Restrooms and vending machines are available, and the site is relatively quiet. Overnight parking is permitted, though no formal camping facilities are provided.
Scenic Beauty Review
Surrounded by natural landscapes, the roadside station offers scenic views, well-maintained viewpoints, and seasonal beauty. The overall atmosphere is peaceful and visually appealing.