Discover the Heart of Chiba’s Rural Charm
Oono roadside station stands at the crossroads of nature and tradition in the scenic Minamiboso region of Chiba Prefecture. Nestled between lush forests and rolling farmland, it offers travelers a refreshing pause with panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. More than a mere rest stop, Oono is a vibrant gateway to local culture, where visitors can connect with authentic rural life.
The station is home to a variety of regional specialties, from farm-fresh produce to handcrafted goods, and features a popular onsen bathhouse, Oono Health Spa, reopened for guests seeking relaxation in natural hot springs. With seasonal events, local art displays, and a bustling farmers market, Oono invites travelers to slow down, savor the moment, and experience the quiet beauty of rural Japan.
Why Visit
Oono roadside station stands out for its exclusive artisanal milk ice cream, crafted daily from fresh Jersey cow milk sourced only from local farms. Visitors can also experience the rare Oono Forest Trail, a guided nature walk through ancient cedar groves that leads to a hidden waterfall, accessible only through the station’s seasonal programs. These unique offerings—found nowhere else—make Oono a must-visit destination for food and nature lovers alike.
Restaurants & Dining
At Oono roadside station, savor fresh local flavors with meals made from regional ingredients.
Oono Health Spa Restaurant
おおの健康の湯
Specialty
Local cuisine with a focus on healthy, seasonal ingredients
A cozy dining space offering traditional Japanese meals made with fresh, locally sourced produce. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, perfect for a relaxing meal after a day of exploring the region.
Soba House
そば処 かん
Specialty
Handmade buckwheat noodles served with seasonal toppings
A small, traditional eatery specializing in freshly made soba noodles. The intimate setting emphasizes craftsmanship and simplicity, with a focus on the natural flavor of the noodles.
Farmers' Market Café
農産物直売所カフェ
Specialty
Fresh local produce and light snacks
A casual café located within the farmers’ market area, serving simple, wholesome meals made from ingredients grown nearby. The space is bright and open, with a focus on sustainability and community.
Local Delights Food Stall
地元グルメ屋台
Specialty
Quick, authentic regional street food
A vibrant food stall offering handheld, traditional snacks made with regional ingredients. The lively atmosphere and fast service make it ideal for on-the-go eating.
Shopping Highlights
Explore a curated selection of regional crafts and goods at Oono roadside station.
Farmers Market
農産物直売所
A marketplace featuring fresh, locally grown vegetables, fruits, and herbs directly from regional farmers.
Products
Must-Try Item
Organic Strawberries
Bakery Corner
ベーカリー角
A small bakery specializing in artisan breads and pastries made with natural ingredients.
Products
Must-Try Item
Honey Wheat Loaf
Craft & Souvenir Shop
工芸品とお土産屋
A shop offering handmade crafts and regional souvenirs, including pottery, textiles, and local artwork.
Products
Must-Try Item
Hand-Painted Ceramic Bowl
Local Meat & Seafood Market
地元肉と魚市場
A dedicated market for fresh, locally sourced meat and seafood, including fish caught in nearby waters.
Products
Must-Try Item
Fresh Mackerel
Dairy & Cheese Shop
乳製品とチーズ屋
A specialty shop offering a variety of locally produced dairy products and artisan cheeses.
Products
Must-Try Item
Aged Cow Cheese
Alcohol & Beverage Store
酒類と飲料販売所
A shop specializing in regional alcoholic beverages, including sake, shochu, and craft beer.
Products
Must-Try Item
Local Sake
Featured Products
Discover Oono's signature specialties, from farm-fresh produce to artisanal treats.
Organic Strawberries
有機イチゴ
Sweet, juicy strawberries grown without pesticides, harvested at peak ripeness
Honey Wheat Loaf
ハチミツ全粒粉パン
A hearty, naturally sweet bread made with whole grain flour and local honey
Hand-Painted Ceramic Bowl
手描き陶器ボウル
A unique, handcrafted ceramic bowl featuring traditional regional patterns
Aged Cow Cheese
熟成牛乳チーズ
Rich, creamy cheese aged to perfection with a smooth, nutty flavor
Local Sake
地元酒
Premium sake brewed using traditional methods and local water and rice
Fresh Mackerel
新鮮な鯖
Recently caught mackerel, known for its rich flavor and tender texture
Seasonal Fruit Jam
旬果実ジャム
Handcrafted jam made from seasonal fruits, no added preservatives
Facilities & Amenities
Enjoy convenient amenities including restrooms, parking, and relaxing lounges at Oono roadside station.
Oono Health Spa
A hot spring facility offering relaxation and therapeutic bathing experiences. Opened again as of May 16, 2025.
Inside the roadside station
Restroom
Clean and accessible restrooms available for visitors.
Near the main entrance
Free Wi-Fi
Complimentary Wi-Fi access available throughout the roadside station.
All areas
Information Center
Staffed desk providing visitor information, maps, and local recommendations.
Main lobby
Parking Area
Ample parking space for cars and buses located near the entrance.
Front of the roadside station
EV Charging Station
Electric vehicle charging points available for visitors.
Near the parking area
ATM
Cash withdrawal machine available for convenience.
Near the information center
Nursing Room
Private room equipped for breastfeeding and baby care.
Near the restroom area
Children's Play Area
Safe and fun play space for children with various toys and equipment.
Near the outdoor seating area
Pet-Friendly Area
Designated space for pets with leashes and waste disposal facilities.
Outside near the entrance
Insider Tips
Learn local favorites and hidden gems with insider tips for the best experience at Oono roadside station.
- Best Arrival Time: Arrive by 9:30 AM on weekends to secure a seat at the Oono Bakery Counter, where fresh-baked milk bread is released daily and sells out by 11:00 AM
- Hidden Gems: Visit the deli counter between 10:00 AM and 11:30 AM to find the limited-edition smoked salmon rice balls, available only on weekdays and made fresh each morning
- Weekend Special: On Saturdays and Sundays, head to the farmers' market stall near the entrance between 10:00 AM and 12:00 PM to purchase the seasonal wild mushroom stew, prepared using ingredients from local foragers
- Best Snack Time: Stop by the Oono Market stall between 1:00 PM and 2:00 PM to sample the free daily portion of pickled vegetables, served only during lunch hours and made with locally grown daikon
- Bathroom Tip: Use the family restroom located just past the gift shop entrance, which has a baby changing table and is open until 8:00 PM—unlike the main restrooms that close at 6:00 PM
- Parking Strategy: Park in Zone B near the entrance to the health bath, as it offers the shortest walking distance to the bakery and market, especially during peak hours
- Local Product Hunt: Check the Oono Craft Corner between 1:00 PM and 4:00 PM to find hand-thrown ceramic mugs made by a local artisan, available only on Thursdays and Sundays and sold at a fixed price of 1,200 yen
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March–May): Canola flowers bloom in late March to April, and fresh bamboo shoots are available at the roadside station market.
Summer (June–August): Fresh watermelon from the local farm is harvested in July and sold at the roadside station.
Autumn (September–November): Autumn harvest season brings chestnuts and sweet potatoes to the roadside station market.
Winter (December–February): The roadside station hosts seasonal events in December, featuring local winter produce and hot drinks.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Oono roadside station features a children's play area, stroller-friendly paths, and family restrooms. Interactive exhibits and local crafts offer educational value. Kid-friendly meals and snacks are available, enhancing the overall family experience.
Food Lover Review
Oono offers diverse dining options with high-quality local specialties like fresh seafood and regional vegetables. The farmers market displays seasonal produce, and artisanal items such as handmade tofu and pickled vegetables add premium appeal.
Car Camping Review
The station provides clean restrooms, vending machines, and ample parking. While quiet during weekdays, it can be busy on weekends. Overnight parking is allowed, though not explicitly advertised as a designated car camping spot.
Scenic Beauty Review
Oono is set amidst scenic coastal views and lush greenery, offering excellent photo spots. Seasonal changes enhance the landscape, and the peaceful atmosphere with ocean breeze adds to its aesthetic charm.