Station Tarō

Discover the Heart of Rural Japan at Tarō Roadside Station

Nestled in the serene landscape of Minamiboso, Tarō Roadside Station stands as a vibrant gateway between nature and community. Located at the crossroads of lush forests and fertile farmland, it offers travelers a peaceful retreat rich in local charm and authentic experiences.

More than just a place to refuel, Tarō is a cultural hub where visitors can savor regional specialties like fresh dairy products and seasonal vegetables grown in nearby fields. The station features a bustling farmers’ market, hands-on workshops, and rotating art exhibitions that highlight the creativity of local artisans. Whether sampling handmade cheese or enjoying a quiet moment with a view of rolling hills, Tarō invites travelers to slow down and connect with the rhythm of rural life.

Tarō roadside station is home to the only on-site dairy facility in the region, where visitors can taste and purchase fresh, small-batch milk ice cream made from Jersey cows raised in nearby pastures. The station also features a seasonal farm stand offering the area’s prized Miyako Kōraku melons—harvested only in August and known for their honeyed sweetness and floral aroma—available exclusively here.

• Best Arrival Time: Arrive by 9:30 AM on weekends to secure a spot at the bakery counter for the daily limited batch of milk bread, which sells out by 11:00 AM
• Hidden Gems: Visit the deli counter between 10:00 AM and 10:30 AM to pick up the day’s fresh batch of homemade miso soup with seasonal vegetables, available only until 11:30 AM
• Weekend Special: On Saturdays, the local farmer’s market in the northeast courtyard features a rotating selection of heirloom apples from the Iwaki Valley, sold only between 10:00 AM and 12:30 PM
• Must-Try Product: Try the signature taro and yuzu jam at the gift shop counter—it’s made exclusively from locally grown ingredients and only available in 100g jars, restocked every Monday morning
• Best Photo Spot: Take a picture at the wooden bridge near the east entrance, where the seasonal cherry blossoms (in full bloom from late April to early May) frame the view of the nearby stream and the roadside station’s red roof
• Parking Tip: Use the designated parking area marked “Bakery Access” located directly behind the main building to avoid walking through the main courtyard during peak hours
• Souvenir Timing: Purchase the limited-edition seasonal postcard set at the information desk before 1:00 PM, as it is only available during the first two weeks of each season and often sells out by midday

Spring (March–May): Late March to April brings peak canola flower viewing, with fresh bamboo shoots available at the roadside station market.

Summer (June–August): July features the summer festival with local food stalls and traditional performances.

Autumn (September–November): October offers apple picking and seasonal harvest markets.

Winter (December–February): December hosts the winter illuminations and hot sake tasting events.