Step Back into the Soul of Old Japan
Nestled along the historic Kinki Route in the serene town of Hirafuku, Hyōgo Prefecture, Shukuba-machi Hirafuku is a roadside station that beautifully preserves the spirit of a traditional Edo-era post town. Located just minutes from the Sawayama Hirafuku Interchange and a short walk from the Hirafuku Station on the Chizu Express, it serves as a welcoming gateway to rural Hyōgo’s charm.
This vibrant hub thrives on local pride, offering fresh produce from nearby farms and unique regional specialties like Nutty Mochi Cookies made with local soybean miso. The on-site restaurant delights visitors with dishes featuring Sawayama Princess Pork and Shimo Moto Ranch’s Kobe beef, while the bustling market stalls showcase handcrafted goods and seasonal treats. With a relaxed atmosphere, informative visitor center, and convenient amenities including EV charging, Shukuba-machi Hirafuku offers a genuine taste of authentic Japanese countryside life.
Why Visit
Shukuba-machi Hirafuku stands out as the only roadside station in the region where you can taste authentic Nuts Senbei made exclusively with local Sayo-grown soybean miso, a recipe unique to this location. The station’s restaurant offers a rare chance to enjoy grilled Sayo Hime pork and beef from Shimo Moto Farm’s Kobe beef herd, sourced directly from the area’s family-run farms. These are not just local dishes—they are culinary traditions preserved in one place.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor authentic local flavors at Shukuba-machi Hirafuku’s roadside station, where farm-to-table dishes highlight regional ingredients.
Restaurant
レストラン
Specialty
Local ingredients including Saya-hime pork and Kobe beef from Shimo Moto Farm
A dining area within the roadside station that offers a variety of dishes made with fresh local ingredients, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere for visitors from both within and outside the town.
Shopping Highlights
Discover fresh local produce and unique crafts at Shukuba-machi Hirafuku’s roadside station, perfect for thoughtful souvenirs.
Farmers Market
直売所
A market stall offering fresh local produce and specialty items from Saya Town, including organic vegetables and handmade processed goods.
Products
Must-Try Item
Nuts Senbei made with Saya Town's local soybean paste
Craft Shop
工芸品店
A specialty store featuring handmade crafts and traditional local art from Saya Town.
Products
Must-Try Item
Handcrafted wooden bowls
Souvenir Shop
お土産店
A shop dedicated to selling unique souvenirs and local specialties for visitors to take home.
Products
Must-Try Item
Nuts Senbei made with Saya Town's local soybean paste
Featured Products
Explore signature items like nut cookies made with local miso and other regional specialties crafted from佐用町’s finest ingredients.
Nuts Senbei with Saya Town Soybean Paste
佐用産もち大豆味噌を使ったナッツ煎餅
A unique, crunchy snack made with locally produced soybean paste and roasted nuts, offering a sweet and savory flavor profile.
Saya Town Organic Vegetable Mix
佐用町産有機野菜ミックス
A blend of fresh, organically grown vegetables from Saya Town, perfect for salads or cooking.
Handcrafted Wooden Bowl
手作り木製ボウル
A beautifully crafted wooden bowl made by local artisans using sustainably sourced wood.
Local Soybean Paste
佐用産もち大豆味噌
A rich, traditional soybean paste made with locally grown soybeans, ideal for soups, marinades, and sauces.
Facilities & Amenities
Enjoy convenient amenities at Shukuba-machi Hirafuku, including rest areas, information desks, and EV charging stations.
Parking Lot
Free parking available for 50 standard vehicles and 10 large vehicles.
Near the main entrance
EV Charging Station
Electric vehicle charging station available on site.
Near the parking lot
Information Center
Open from 9:00 to 19:00, providing information and assistance to visitors.
Main building
Restroom
Available for public use, located within the main facility.
Inside the main building
Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi available for visitors.
Throughout the premises
Insider Tips
Visit on weekdays for a quieter experience and check seasonal events for special local treats and activities.
- Best Arrival Time: Visit the roadside station by 9:30 AM on weekends to secure a seat at the food truck, which opens at 9:30 AM and serves fresh grilled sausages and local vegetable skewers—typically sells out by 11:00 AM.
- Hidden Gems: At the deli counter in the direct sales shop, look for the limited-edition "Nuts Senbei" made with local Sayo-grown soybean miso—this item is only available in small batches and often sells out by midday.
- Weekend Special: On Saturdays and Sundays, the restaurant offers a special "Sayo Hime Pork Set" featuring locally raised Sayo Hime pork, served only between 11:30 AM and 1:00 PM—arrive before 11:30 AM to guarantee availability.
- EV Charging Tip: Use the EV charging station located near the front entrance—connect your vehicle between 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM when the station is least likely to be occupied, as peak usage occurs during lunch hours.
- Dining Timing: To avoid long lines at the restaurant, order your meal by 11:45 AM, as the kitchen stops taking orders at 14:30 PM and service ends at 15:00 PM.
- Local Product Hunt: Head directly to the direct sales shop’s “Sayo Specials” section near the back wall to find fresh seasonal produce like local radishes and heirloom tomatoes, which are restocked daily at 8:00 AM and often sold out by 11:00 AM.
- Information Corner Bonus: Visit the information corner between 10:00 AM and 11:00 AM on weekdays to receive a free map of the nearby historical walking trail along the old Inaba Kaido route—available only during this time slot.
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 local vegetables and summer fruits are at their peak, with the roadside station offering seasonal harvest events.
Autumn (September-November): Harvest festivals feature newly harvested chestnuts and sweet potatoes from local farms.
Winter (December-February): Warm seasonal dishes like roasted chestnuts and hearty stews are served at the restaurant.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Features a spacious parking area, stroller-friendly paths, and a relaxed atmosphere. While no dedicated play area is mentioned, the presence of multiple dining options and local activities offers family appeal. Restrooms are accessible and well-maintained.
Food Lover Review
Offers diverse local cuisine including regional specialties like Saya-hime pork and Kobe beef. The direct sales shop features fresh local produce and unique items such as nut cookies made with local miso. Quality and variety are strong.
Car Camping Review
Provides ample free parking for general and large vehicles, with restrooms and vending machines available. The site is relatively quiet during daytime hours. However, no explicit overnight parking policy is stated, limiting its suitability for extended stays.
Scenic Beauty Review
Located in a historic former post town with a calm, traditional atmosphere. Surrounded by natural landscapes and seasonal scenery. Offers scenic viewpoints and photo opportunities, especially during cherry blossom and autumn foliage seasons.