Discover the Heart of Iwate’s Rural Charm
Ishigami no Oka is a vibrant roadside station nestled in the scenic landscapes of Iwate Prefecture, where nature, art, and local culture converge. Located just off the main highway, it offers travelers a refreshing escape into the authentic rhythms of rural Japan, blending convenience with cultural depth.
More than a pit stop, this roadside station features a unique sculpture museum, seasonal farm-to-table dining, and a bustling marketplace showcasing regional specialties. Highlights include locally crafted cabbage shochu, fresh seasonal vegetables, and community-driven events like the popular free market and annual stamp rally. With its warm hospitality and deep connection to local heritage, Ishigami no Oka invites visitors to savor the true spirit of Iwate.
Why Visit
Ishigami no Oka stands out as the only roadside station in Iwate Prefecture to house a permanent sculpture museum featuring works by renowned local artists, including the iconic "Lulu and Lili" bronze figures. Visitors can savor the region’s only handmade cabbage shochu, crafted from locally grown vegetables and aged in cedar barrels, while dining at the on-site restaurant that highlights seasonal produce from nearby farms. This fusion of art, agriculture, and craft is found nowhere else.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor fresh, local flavors at Ishigami no Oka roadside station.
Lulu and Lili
ルルとリリ
Specialty
Cozy café with a focus on homemade pastries and light meals
A charming café offering a warm, inviting atmosphere with a selection of homemade pastries, sandwiches, and beverages. Perfect for a relaxing break with a view of the surrounding countryside.
Iwate Farm-to-Table Restaurant
レストラン石神の丘
Specialty
Fresh local ingredients prepared in traditional Japanese style
A dining experience centered around seasonal, locally sourced ingredients. The restaurant emphasizes traditional Japanese cooking techniques with a modern twist, creating a refined yet welcoming atmosphere.
Cabbage Shochu Bar
キャベツ焼酎 キャベ酎
Specialty
Specialty bar featuring locally produced cabbage shochu
A unique bar dedicated to artisanal shochu made from fresh cabbage, offering a range of tastings and cocktail pairings. The atmosphere is rustic and welcoming, ideal for shochu enthusiasts.
Shopping Highlights
Discover unique local crafts and seasonal goods at Ishigami no Oka roadside station.
Farmers Market
フリーマーケット in 石神の丘
A rotating market featuring local producers, artisans, and small businesses selling fresh produce, handmade goods, and seasonal items.
Products
Must-Try Item
Seasonal vegetable basket
Iwate Specialty Goods
【特選！岩手町の特産品】お取り寄せ
A curated shop offering premium regional products from Iwate Prefecture, ideal for souvenirs and gifts.
Products
Must-Try Item
Iwate Mountain Herb Tea
Vegetable Set Shop
野菜セット
A dedicated shop offering pre-packaged vegetable sets sourced directly from local farms.
Products
Must-Try Item
Fresh Vegetable Box
Featured Products
Taste signature specialties like cabbage shochu and farm-fresh vegetables at Ishigami no Oka roadside station.
Cabbage Shochu
キャベツ焼酎
Locally crafted shochu made from fresh cabbage, known for its clean, crisp flavor and subtle sweetness
Iwate Mountain Herb Tea
岩手山のハーブティー
A blend of wild herbs foraged from the mountains of Iwate, offering a naturally aromatic and soothing drink
Seasonal Vegetable Box
旬の野菜セット
A curated box of fresh, seasonal vegetables delivered directly from local farms, ensuring peak flavor and nutrition
Iwate Farm-to-Table Gift Set
岩手農産ギフトセット
A premium gift set featuring a selection of Iwate’s finest local products, including pickles, dried fish, and tea
Insider Tips
Explore hidden gems and local favorites with insider tips at Ishigami no Oka roadside station.
- Best Arrival Time: Arrive by 9:30 AM on weekends to secure a seat at the bakery counter, where fresh milk bread is baked daily and sells out by 11:00 AM
- Hidden Gems: Visit the deli counter near the entrance to find the limited-edition Cabbage Shochu (Cabbage Shochu), available only during seasonal events like the Autumn Thank-You Festival
- Weekend Special: On the first Saturday of each month, the free market in the central plaza features a rotating lineup of local artisans; check the official Instagram page for the featured vendors in advance
- Best Photo Spot: Head to the sculpture garden behind the art museum before 10:00 AM to capture the morning light on the Lulu and Lili bronze sculptures, which are often photographed by visitors
- Local Food Hack: Order the Vegetable Set at the restaurant counter before 12:00 PM—it includes three seasonal vegetables from the region and is only available during the summer and fall months
- Special Event Tip: If visiting in September, arrive early to participate in the Free Market in Ishigami no Oka held on the 1st and 2nd, where local farmers sell surplus produce directly from their trucks
- Souvenir Shortcut: Purchase the 23rd Anniversary Special Commemorative Ticket at the front desk before 4:00 PM to receive a free packet of local dried vegetables as a thank-you gift
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March-May): Fresh bamboo shoots available at the market from early April; spring vegetable sets feature seasonal produce.
Summer (June-August): Free market held in September; summer harvest vegetables available at the roadside station.
Autumn (September-November): Autumn gratitude festival with vegetable week held in late October; fresh harvests from late September.
Winter (December-February): No specific events mentioned; seasonal produce limited to stored vegetables.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Offers play areas and family activities, including seasonal events like markets and festivals. Kid-friendly food options available, with stroller-friendly paths and accessible restrooms. Educational elements through art and local agriculture exhibitions.
Food Lover Review
Features a dedicated restaurant with diverse menu options and high-quality local produce. Offers unique regional specialties like cabbage shochu and seasonal vegetable sets. Fresh farmers market quality with artisanal food products available for purchase.
Car Camping Review
Provides clean restrooms and vending machines. Quiet surroundings suitable for overnight stays, though no explicit overnight parking policy is stated. Limited comfort for extended camping compared to dedicated sites.
Scenic Beauty Review
Surrounded by scenic rural landscapes with seasonal variety in foliage and agriculture. Offers excellent photo opportunities near the sculpture museum and open fields. Pleasant aesthetic appeal with natural and artistic elements combined.