Station Yabu

Discover the Heart of Yabu: Where Nature, Culture, and Community Meet

Nestled along the scenic Prefectural Road 104 in Yabu, Hyōgo Prefecture, the roadside station Yabu COINOBA VILLAGE is more than a pit stop—it’s a vibrant cultural hub where travelers from near and far come to rest, reconnect, and rediscover the rhythm of rural Japan. Surrounded by lush green mountains and clear streams, this inviting space celebrates Yabu’s identity with its iconic koi pond, a serene oasis where visitors can pause and reflect beneath the shade of ancient trees.

At the heart of the station lies a dynamic mix of local flavors and family-friendly experiences. Savor regional specialties like oil soba—rich, savory noodles with a signature umami broth—or enjoy a hearty meal at the family restaurant featuring a variety of plates, including a popular kids’ menu and premium beef dishes. The bakery offers freshly baked goods made with domestic wheat, perfect for enjoying with a coffee or soft serve at the cozy café. With a play area for children, private dining rooms, and accessible facilities, Yabu COINOBA VILLAGE welcomes guests of all ages, making it an ideal destination for multi-generational visits.

Yabu roadside station stands out for its unique fusion of cultural icon and local flavor. Home to the only public锦鯉 (koi) pond in Yabu, visitors can enjoy a serene stroll past the vibrant fish that symbolize the town, a feature unmatched by any other roadside station in the region. Equally distinctive is the station’s oil soba, a local specialty served in two distinct ways—classic and seasonal—with a rich, umami-packed broth made from slow-simmered chashu that cannot be replicated elsewhere. Together, the koi pond and the signature oil soba create an experience uniquely tied to Yabu’s identity.

• Best Arrival Time: Arrive by 9:30 AM on weekends to secure a seat at the bakery counter, where fresh-baked milk bread is available and sells out by 11:00 AM
• Hidden Gems: At the deli counter, look for the seasonal "Yabu Special Oil Noodles" served only during limited-time promotions, which feature a rich, secret-recipe broth and tender chashu
• Weekend Special: On weekends, visit the family restaurant between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM to enjoy the "15-variety Little Big Plate" with a free kid-friendly "Kids Plate" option for children
• Best Seating: Choose a table near the koi pond if you’re visiting with children, as the outdoor seating area includes a shaded play zone and direct views of the fish
• Best Time for Pantry Items: Stop by the direct sales counter between 10:30 AM and 11:00 AM to pick up the day’s freshest local vegetables and fruits, which are delivered daily and often sell out by noon
• Cafe Timing: Order the seasonal limited-time parfaits at the café between 10:00 AM and 12:00 PM, as these are only available during morning hours and are often sold out by 1:00 PM
• Parking Tip: Use the large vehicle parking area (9 spots) if you’re arriving with a caravan or large family, as the ordinary car spots fill quickly during weekend afternoons

Spring (March–May): Canola flowers bloom in late March to April, and fresh bamboo shoots are available at the market.

Summer (June–August): Fireflies appear from early to mid-June, and seasonal oil soba is available.

Autumn (September–November): The roadside station offers autumn harvest produce and seasonal fruit.

Winter (December–February): Enjoy warm meals like beef steak rice bowls and seasonal soft serve.