Discover the Heart of Kashiwa’s Culinary and Cultural Heritage
Nestled in the vibrant city of Kasama, the roadside station Kasama serves as the welcoming gateway to one of Japan’s premier chestnut-producing regions. Known nationwide for its exceptional chestnut cultivation—boasting both the largest planting area and highest harvest volume—Kasama celebrates its agricultural pride through a vibrant mix of local flavors, seasonal markets, and community-driven experiences.
At the heart of the station lies the specialty café and shop "Rakuri La Kuri," where visitors can savor chestnut-based delicacies from traditional montblancs to seasonal treats. The station also features a bustling farmers’ market called "Midori no Kaze," offering fresh, locally grown produce, unique regional souvenirs, and hands-on events like seasonal harvest festivals and community-driven markets. With a calendar filled with live performances, BBQ gatherings, and artisan fairs, Kasama is more than a stop—it’s a celebration of rural vitality, culinary excellence, and local connection.
Why Visit
Visit Kasama roadside station to experience the nation’s only certified 0.5mm-thin chestnut montblanc, a meticulously crafted dessert that has earned back-to-back national championship titles. Here, you can also savor the region’s first dedicated chestnut café, where seasonal chestnut ice cream and handmade filo pastries highlight the city’s top-tier chestnut harvest. These are not just treats—they’re a celebration of Kasama’s unmatched chestnut heritage.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor the rich flavor of Kasama’s famous chestnuts at dedicated cafés and food courts. Local ingredients come alive in every dish.
La Kuri
楽栗
Specialty
Specializing in chestnuts from Kasama, offering handmade pastries and desserts
A dedicated chestnut-themed restaurant located within the food court of Kasama Roadside Station, offering a variety of chestnut-based pastries and desserts made with locally sourced ingredients. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, ideal for enjoying seasonal treats.
Kuri No Shi
栗ノ絲
Specialty
Famous for the '0.5mm ultra-fine chestnut Mont Blanc' that won the 'Road-1 Grand Prix' two years in a row
A mobile kitchen cart offering premium chestnut desserts, particularly known for its award-winning Mont Blanc. The cart is operated with a focus on quality and seasonal availability.
Shopping Highlights
Discover fresh, seasonal produce and unique local souvenirs at the vibrant market stalls. Every item tells a story of Kasama’s land and people.
Midori no Kaze
みどりの風
A direct sales market offering fresh local produce and unique souvenirs from Kasama City and nearby farms.
Products
Must-Try Item
Seasonal Root Vegetables
Kasama Pottery Shop
笠間駅前陶房
A craft shop specializing in handcrafted ceramics made from Kasama clay, representing the city's renowned pottery tradition.
Products
Must-Try Item
Handmade Kasama Ware
Featured Products
Highlighting Kasama’s signature chestnuts and crafted specialties, these products capture the essence of the region’s heritage and craftsmanship.
Roasted Chestnuts
焼き栗
Freshly roasted chestnuts harvested from local farms, offering a sweet and nutty flavor perfect for winter enjoyment.
Chestnut Flour
栗粉
Premium flour made from dried chestnuts, ideal for baking and traditional confections.
Dried Burdock Root
きんぴら
Dried burdock root, a traditional Japanese ingredient used in pickles and stews, known for its health benefits and earthy taste.
New Rice
新米
Freshly harvested rice from local farms, known for its soft texture and rich flavor.
Dried Mushrooms
乾燥きくらげ
High-quality dried shiitake mushrooms, perfect for soups, stews, and traditional Japanese cooking.
Chestnut Paste
栗ペースト
Smooth, sweet chestnut paste made from locally grown chestnuts, ideal for desserts and spreads.
Yam (Japanese Sweet Potato)
さつまいも
Sweet, tender Japanese sweet potatoes grown in the fertile soil of Kasama, perfect for roasting or boiling.
Chestnut Taro
栗芋
A unique variety of taro with a chestnut-like flavor, ideal for soups and stews.
Facilities & Amenities
Enjoy comfortable amenities including rest areas, restrooms, and picnic spaces designed for a relaxing roadside stop.
Information Center
The roadside station provides information about Kasama City, its attractions, events, and local products. It serves as a gateway to experience the charm of Kasama.
Main entrance area
Parking
Parking facilities are available for visitors arriving by car.
Near the main entrance
Restroom
Public restrooms are available for visitors.
Throughout the facility
Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi is available for visitors throughout the roadside station.
Common areas and indoor spaces
Food Court
Features a variety of local food options including the specialty chestnut restaurant 'Rakuri La Kuri' and other shops using regional ingredients.
Inside the roadside station
Farmers' Market
The 'Midori no Kaze' direct sales store offers fresh local produce, seasonal vegetables, fruits, and unique local souvenirs from Kasama City and nearby farms.
Direct sales store area
Play Area
The multipurpose plaza hosts various events and activities including children's markets, seasonal festivals, and community events such as the 'Noufuku Market' and 'Kuri Smart Market'.
Multipurpose Plaza
EV Charging Station
Electric vehicle charging stations are available for visitors using electric cars.
Near the parking area
ATM
An ATM is available for visitors to access banking services.
Near the entrance
Pet Area
Designated space for pets, allowing visitors to bring their animals to the roadside station.
Outdoor area near the entrance
Activities & Experiences
Engage in seasonal events, hands-on workshops, and lively market experiences that bring Kasama’s culture to life.
Grill BBQ (Bring-Your-Own-Grill)
道の駅 de BBQ
Participants can enjoy grilling their own food using provided grilling facilities at the roadside station.
Duration
120 min
Outdoor activity; may be affected by rain or extreme weather.
Chestnut Harvest Festival
秋の収穫まつり
Join a seasonal festival celebrating the autumn harvest with local produce, activities, and community events.
Duration
180 min
Outdoor event; may be affected by rain or cold weather.
Winter Market with Handmade Goods
栗スマスマーケット
Experience a festive winter market featuring handmade crafts, seasonal food, and live performances during the Christmas season.
Duration
180 min
Indoor and outdoor activities; check for weather-related changes.
Local Farmers' Market
みどりのマルシェ
Visit a seasonal market featuring fresh local produce, handmade goods, and community vendors from nearby farms.
Duration
120 min
Outdoor market; may be affected by rain or cold weather.
Agricultural and Disability Support Market
ノウフクマルシェ
Participate in a special market that supports agricultural and disability welfare initiatives, featuring products made by people with disabilities and local farmers.
Duration
150 min
Outdoor event; may be affected by rain or cold weather.
Chestnut Roasting Experience
焼き栗販売
Purchase freshly roasted chestnuts at the roadside station, available during the seasonal chestnut harvest period.
Duration
30 min
Outdoor activity; may be affected by weather conditions.
Morning Market
朝市
Attend a morning market offering fresh vegetables, roasted seafood, grilled skewers, and seasonal local products.
Duration
180 min
Outdoor event; may be affected by rain or cold weather.
Children's Rice Sales Event
稲田小学校児童によるもち米販売
Support local students by purchasing rice they have grown through a school agricultural program.
Duration
60 min
Outdoor event; may be affected by rain or cold weather.
Flower Exhibition
花の展示
View a seasonal flower exhibition featuring local chrysanthemums and other flowers from nearby farms.
Duration
60 min
Indoor exhibition; weather not a factor.
Insider Tips
Plan visits during peak harvests for the freshest finds, and check event schedules for special pop-ups and live performances.
- Best Arrival Time: Visit between 9:00 AM and 10:00 AM on weekdays to secure the first batch of fresh roasted chestnuts sold daily at the multi-purpose plaza, as they sell out quickly and are only available until the day ends.
- Hidden Gems: Look for the seasonal small chrysanthemum and gerbera flower displays at the "Midori no Kaze" produce market between November 22 and 24—these are curated by local farmers and not advertised elsewhere.
- Weekend Special: On November 24, attend the "Morning Market" at the multi-purpose plaza, where you can buy freshly harvested lotus root, dried shiitake mushrooms, and new rice directly from local producers like Marutatsu Farm and Central Agri Club.
- Must-Try Food: Order the "Kuri no Shi" (Chestnut 0.5mm Fine Mont Blanc) from the white kitchen cart, which is now the new standard for the award-winning dessert—arrive early on weekends to avoid long lines.
- Unique Shopping: Purchase the handmade mochi rice from the elementary school children’s sales event on November 30, held at the multi-purpose plaza from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM—this is a rare chance to support local students and buy freshly milled rice.
- Special Event: Attend the "No Fukku Market" on November 23, held at the multi-purpose plaza from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM, where people with disabilities and local farmers sell handcrafted produce and processed goods as part of a regional agricultural and welfare collaboration.
- Seasonal Food Alert: Visit the "Midori no Kaze" produce market between November 28 and December 31 to find seasonal winter vegetables such as taro, lotus root, and burdock root, which are in high supply and ideal for traditional hot pots and stews.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March-May): Late March to April features the peak of canola flower season, while fresh bamboo shoots arrive at the market in early spring.
Summer (June-August): Late July through August offers outdoor BBQ events and the highlight of fresh, locally harvested chestnuts.
Autumn (September-November): October to November brings the annual harvest festival, chestnut moon festival, and seasonal markets featuring roasted chestnuts and new rice.
Winter (December-February): December features festive markets and the sale of traditional mochi and winter vegetables like taro and lotus root.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Features include a children's play area, family events like the seasonal BBQ and children's rice sales, and interactive experiences such as the harvest festival. Facilities are stroller-friendly with ample space, and the focus on local agriculture offers educational value for kids.
Food Lover Review
Offers diverse dining with a dedicated chestnut café, fresh local produce at the market, and a variety of seasonal events like the chestnut market and food festivals. High-quality regional specialties and fresh, locally sourced ingredients enhance the culinary experience.
Car Camping Review
Provides restrooms and vending machines, with a spacious parking area. The site is quiet during weekdays and suitable for overnight stays, though no explicit overnight parking policy is stated. Facilities are adequate but not designed specifically for camping.
Scenic Beauty Review
Located in a scenic rural area with seasonal beauty, especially during autumn and winter festivals. Offers picturesque views, well-lit holiday displays, and photo opportunities around the chestnut market and seasonal events.