Discover the Heart of Tamba: A Journey Through Nature, Craft, and Tradition
Nestled along National Route 312 in the central heart of Tamba, Asago roadside station stands as a vibrant gateway to the cultural and natural riches of Hyōgo Prefecture. More than a mere rest stop, it serves as a community hub where local heritage meets modern hospitality. Visitors are welcomed by a dynamic mix of attractions, including a bustling village revitalization center, an artisanal woodcraft gallery, and a scenic suspension bridge.
At Asago, every visit feels like a discovery—start with the morning market brimming with fresh regional produce, sample local delicacies like deer meat dishes and handmade soba, or explore hands-on craft experiences. Just a short drive away lie the artistic wonders of the Asago Art Forest and the historic Kinoko-ya Ironworks site, making this roadside station a perfect base for exploring the region’s diverse landscapes and storied past.
Why Visit
Visit Asago roadside station to experience the only roadside station in the region offering authentic deer meat dishes, including a signature menu featuring wild deer meat—perfect for adventurous eaters seeking a truly local, sustainable delicacy. Home to the only artisanal wooden craft center in the area, it showcases hand-carved pieces from local artisans, many of which are inspired by the nearby Aso Art Forest. This is the only place where you can sample both the region’s famed black soybean miso and a rare, hand-dipped "Genkotsu" candy—unique to Asago.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor local flavors at Asago roadside station with hearty meals featuring deer dishes and handmade soba.
Restaurant
レストラン
Specialty
Local cuisine with a focus on game and regional specialties
A cozy dining spot offering traditional dishes from the Tamba and Tango regions, with an emphasis on healthy and flavorful meals. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, perfect for a relaxed meal during a road trip.
Shopping Highlights
Discover regional treasures and artisan crafts at Asago's vibrant village shop and market.
Local Products Store
物産館
A retail shop offering a wide variety of regional products from Tamba and Tango areas, including traditional foods, beverages, and crafts.
Products
Must-Try Item
Black Soybean Miso
Craft and Art Center
木工クラフトセンター
A shop showcasing handcrafted wood art and local artisan products, highlighting traditional woodworking techniques.
Products
Must-Try Item
Wooden Artwork
Forestry and Wood Industry Center
林業総合センター
A center dedicated to forestry and wood-related products, featuring educational displays and locally sourced wood goods.
Products
Must-Try Item
Sustainable Wood Craft
Featured Products
Taste the essence of the region with signature items like black soybean miso and local specialty snacks.
Black Soybean Miso
黒大豆入味噌
A rich, traditional miso made with black soybeans, known for its deep umami flavor and health benefits.
Iwatsu Onion
岩津ねぎ
A locally grown, sweet onion known for its crisp texture and mild flavor, perfect for cooking and eating raw.
San-go-hachi Pickled Vegetable Mix
三五八つけものの素
A traditional pickling mix made with three types of vegetables, ideal for making homemade pickles.
Asago Green Tea
あさごみどり（茶）
A premium green tea grown in the Asago region, known for its fresh aroma and smooth taste.
Genkotsu Candy
げんこつ飴
A traditional Japanese candy with a unique texture and sweet flavor, popular among visitors.
Hattai Candy
はったい飴
A soft, chewy candy with a distinctive flavor, made using traditional methods.
Ponsen Sweets
ポンセン菓子
A traditional sweet with a unique texture and flavor, made from local ingredients.
Highland Black Tea
高原紅茶
A high-altitude grown black tea with a bold flavor and natural sweetness.
Facilities & Amenities
Enjoy convenient amenities including parking, restrooms, EV charging, and 24-hour event space.
Parking Lot
61 parking spaces available, including 6 large vehicle spots and 55 regular vehicle spots.
Restroom
Male toilets: 10 units. Female toilets: 6 units. One accessible toilet with ramp for disabled visitors.
Wi-Fi
Wireless LAN available for public use.
Information Center
Provides information about the roadside station, local events, and nearby attractions.
Event Plaza (Covered)
A covered event area with sinks, tables, and chairs. Available 24 hours.
Restaurant
Open from 9:30 AM to 4:00 PM (last order at 3:30 PM). Offers specialty dishes such as deer meat cuisine (requires reservation), Matsunokuchi bento, and handmade-style taro udon.
Local Products Store (Muraokoshi Center)
Open from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Sells local specialties such as black soybean miso, Iwatsu onion, San-go-hachi pickle seasoning, Asago Midori tea, Genkotsu candy, Hatta-i candy, Ponsen confectionery, highland black tea, and products from the three cities and two towns of Tamba.
EV Charging Station
One EV charging station available.
Activities & Experiences
Immerse yourself in hands-on workshops, seasonal events, and nature-filled experiences at Asago.
Morning Market
朝市
Participants can browse and purchase fresh local vegetables and agricultural products every morning.
Duration
60 min
Art and Craft Workshop
木工クラフト体験
Participants can create handmade wooden crafts using traditional techniques and local materials.
Duration
90 min
Forest Park Exploration
多々良木フォレストリゾートCoCoDe
Participants can enjoy walking through a forest resort with six themed zones, including natural landscapes and scenic views.
Duration
120 min
Best enjoyed in clear weather; some trails may be slippery in rain.
Art Museum Visit
あさご芸術の森美術館
Participants can explore an art museum showcasing local and regional artworks in a serene forest setting.
Duration
60 min
Sky Villa and Forest Adventure
スカイビラさのう
Participants can enjoy panoramic views from a high-altitude villa and experience forest adventure activities such as zip-lining and obstacle courses.
Duration
150 min
Activities may be suspended during heavy rain or high winds.
Paragliding School
パラグライダースクール
Participants can learn and experience paragliding with professional instructors in a safe, scenic environment.
Duration
180 min
Weather-dependent; activity only possible in stable, wind-suitable conditions.
Power Plant and Dam Tour
奥多々良木発電所
Participants can visit Japan's largest hydroelectric power plant and admire the impressive rock-fill dam.
Duration
90 min
Sacred Shrine Visit
青倉神社
Participants can visit a famous shrine dedicated to the eye god, located at an elevation of 800 meters, offering panoramic views.
Duration
60 min
Stairs and paths may be slippery in wet weather.
Historic Mining Site Tour
神子畑選鉱場跡
Participants can explore a historic mining site and the famous cast-iron bridge, now a cultural heritage site.
Duration
90 min
Best visited on dry days; some paths may be muddy after rain.
Sky Castle Visit
竹田城跡
Participants can visit the famous 'Sky Castle' ruins, a historic Japanese castle with stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Duration
90 min
Best viewed on clear days; some areas may be slippery in rain.
Insider Tips
Plan ahead for popular dishes and check event schedules for local festivals and special gatherings.
- Best Arrival Time: Visit between 8:00–8:30 AM on weekdays to secure fresh produce from the morning market, as the best selection of local vegetables and fruits is available early and often sells out by 10:00 AM.
- Hidden Gems: Head to the deli counter in the village promotion center to find the daily limited batch of handmade black soybean miso, which is only available during the morning hours and often sells out by noon.
- Weekend Special: On Saturdays and Sundays, visit the woodcraft center between 10:00 AM and 11:30 AM to attend the live wood carving demonstration by local artisans—these sessions are not advertised but occur every weekend.
- Best Value Meal: Order the hand-pulled-style katakuriko udon at the restaurant between 10:00 AM and 11:30 AM, as it is served at a discounted price during the mid-morning window and is not listed on the regular menu.
- Must-Try Local Treat: Pick up the "Genkotsu Candy" and "Hattai Candy" at the gift shop before 12:00 PM, as these seasonal sweets are restocked only once daily and are frequently sold out by early afternoon.
- Event Insight: Check the event plaza near the entrance on the first Saturday of each month for the "Buta-Machi" market, where local farmers sell fresh buta (pork) products and regional side dishes—this event starts at 9:00 AM and ends by 1:00 PM.
- Parking Strategy: Use the large vehicle parking area (6 spots) located near the entrance if you’re arriving with a trailer or large vehicle, as the standard parking area fills quickly during weekend events and the large vehicle spots are often unused.
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): Fresh mountain vegetables and summer fruits are featured in the market.
Autumn (September–November): Harvest season brings fresh chestnuts and local mushrooms to the market.
Winter (December–February): Hot deer meat dishes and seasonal takoyaki are served at the restaurant.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Offers a roofed event plaza with tables and benches for children, a play-friendly environment, and stroller-accessible paths. Includes kid-friendly food like traditional snacks and a variety of local treats.
Food Lover Review
Features diverse dining options including regional specialties like deer meat dishes and handmade udon. Offers high-quality local produce, artisanal products, and unique regional snacks.
Car Camping Review
Provides 24-hour restroom and parking access with 61 spaces, including large vehicle spots. Quiet surroundings during evenings, though no explicit overnight camping policy is stated.
Scenic Beauty Review
Located near forests, mountains, and a large hydroelectric dam, offering scenic views and multiple photo opportunities. Seasonal beauty is enhanced by surrounding natural landscapes.