Discover the Heart of Satsuma at Kawabe Yasuragi-no-Sato
Nestled along National Route 225 in the serene heart of Satsuma Peninsula, Kawabe Yasuragi-no-Sato is a roadside station where nature, tradition, and local craftsmanship converge. Surrounded by lush mountains and blessed with abundant water, this tranquil stop offers travelers a genuine taste of rural Kagoshima. More than just a place to rest, it’s a vibrant cultural hub where visitors connect with the region’s agricultural roots and sustainable spirit.
The station shines with its locally crafted treasures, most notably the beloved yose tofu—a rich, additive-free delicacy made from regionally grown soybeans. Guests can savor farm-to-table meals featuring premium Kawabe beef and Kuro Satsuma chicken, or enjoy seasonal produce like melons, sweet potatoes, and fresh strawberries. With a fully stocked market, a cozy café, and helpful information terminals, Kawabe Yasuragi-no-Sato delivers an authentic, welcoming experience for every traveler.
Why Visit
Visit Kawabe Yasuragi-no-Sato for its exclusive yose tofu—a locally crafted, additive-free tofu made from beans grown in the region, available only here. Savor it with a side of handmade miso or try the rare Kawabe beef—A4-grade black-haired wagyu raised in the area, known for its rich, buttery flavor. These are not just local specialties; they’re the heart of the station’s identity.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor farm-fresh flavors at Kawabe Yasuragi-no-Sato, where local ingredients shine in hearty, traditional meals.
Starful
スターフル
Specialty
Local ingredients with a focus on regional cuisine
A restaurant serving meals made from locally sourced ingredients, offering a warm and inviting atmosphere with a focus on fresh, seasonal dishes.
Shopping Highlights
Discover regional treasures at the roadside station’s vibrant market, brimming with handmade goods and seasonal produce.
Farmers Market
物産館
A retail shop offering a wide variety of locally produced goods, including fresh vegetables, fruits, and regional specialty products.
Products
Must-Try Item
Yose Doufu
Featured Products
Try signature items like handmade tofu and local dairy, crafted with pride from the area’s finest ingredients.
Kawabe Beef
かわなべ牛
High-quality Black Wagyu beef raised in Kawabe, known for its rich marbling and tender texture, graded A4 or higher.
Kuro Satsumadori Chicken
黒さつま鶏
A unique black chicken breed developed in the region, prized for its rich flavor and suitability for both grilling and raw consumption.
Yose Doufu
寄せ豆腐
A popular, additive-free tofu made from locally grown soybeans, known for its smooth texture and rich flavor. The most popular product at the roadside station.
Yogurt
ヨーグルト
A creamy yogurt available in three varieties: plain, soy milk, and cheese, made with local milk.
Ice Cream
アイスクリーム
Homemade ice cream made with locally sourced cow's milk from Kagoshima, offering a rich and creamy taste.
Miso
みそ
Traditional miso made from locally grown soybeans, offering a deep, savory flavor.
Mentsuyu
めんつゆ
A rich, savory noodle broth made from local ingredients, perfect for soba and udon.
Sweet Potato
さつまいも
Locally grown sweet potatoes known for their sweetness and smooth texture.
Melon
メロン
Fresh melons grown in the region, known for their juiciness and sweetness.
Lettuce
レタス
Crisp, fresh lettuce grown locally, ideal for salads and sandwiches.
Tangerine
みかん
Sweet and juicy tangerines harvested from local orchards.
Strawberry
いちご
Fresh, sweet strawberries grown in the region, perfect for eating fresh or in desserts.
Rice
米
Locally grown rice with a delicate flavor and soft texture.
Facilities & Amenities
Relax and recharge with clean restrooms, parking, and helpful information kiosks at Kawabe Yasuragi-no-Sato.
Parking
Parking area available for visitors.
Near the main entrance of the roadside station
Restroom
Public toilets available for visitors.
Located throughout the facility, including accessible toilets
Information Center
Information terminal (tablet) available for providing road information, nearby roadside station details, tourism information, medical information, and weather updates. Also provides brochures and pamphlets about other roadside stations.
Information corner within the facility
Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi access available for visitors.
Throughout the facility
Play Area
Children's play area available for families with young kids.
Near the rest area and family facilities
Nursing Room
Private room for breastfeeding and baby care, located in the family-friendly facilities.
Near the rest area and family facilities
EV Charging Station
Electric vehicle charging station available for visitors.
Near the parking area
ATM
ATM machine available for cash withdrawal.
Near the entrance or information area
Pet Area
Designated area for pets, allowing visitors to bring their animals.
Outside the main building, near the parking area
Insider Tips
Visit during off-peak hours for a peaceful stay and pick up fresh produce at the morning market.
- Best Arrival Time: Arrive by 9:30 AM on weekdays to secure the day’s fresh batch of handmade milk bread from the bakery, which is typically sold out by 11:00 AM
- Hidden Gems: Visit the deli counter during the 12:00 PM lunch rush to find the day’s limited supply of handmade yose tofu (a regional tofu specialty), which is often sold out by 1:30 PM
- Weekend Special: On the second Sunday of each month, visit the "Green Vegetable Market" (青空野菜市) held in the parking area from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM to purchase fresh, locally grown vegetables directly from farmers
- Must-Try Menu Item: Order the Kawabe Beef Set Meal at the restaurant between 11:30 AM and 1:00 PM to enjoy the A4-grade beef served with seasonal vegetables, available only during lunch hours
- Information Corner Tip: Use the information terminal in the "Exhibition Hall" to check real-time road conditions on National Route 225, especially before driving through the Kawabe Pass to avoid unexpected closures
- Best Buy for Souvenirs: Purchase the Yose Tofu and Miso in bulk from the gift shop between 3:00 PM and 4:00 PM on weekdays, when the shop offers a 10% discount on multi-item purchases
- Restroom Access: If you need a wheelchair-accessible restroom, use the one located near the restaurant entrance—this is the only accessible toilet at Kawabe Yasuragi-no-Sato, and it is clearly marked with a blue sign
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March-May): Peak season for the Spring Unmamakamon Market and fresh bamboo shoots at the market.
Summer (June-August): No specific seasonal events or products mentioned.
Autumn (September-November): Hosts the Goraibutsu Festival in November and features fresh melons and sweet potatoes.
Winter (December-February): Offers seasonal sales and the annual Kanabe Two-Day Market in February.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Offers stroller-friendly paths, baby care facilities, and a quiet rest area. While no dedicated play area exists, the natural setting and nearby parks enhance family appeal. Educational value comes from local food production displays.
Food Lover Review
Features a variety of local dishes using fresh ingredients like Kawabe beef and black Satsuma chickens. The renowned yose tofu and regional products such as miso, dashi, and ice cream highlight authentic flavors and quality craftsmanship.
Car Camping Review
Provides restrooms, parking, and vending machines. The site is quiet with natural surroundings suitable for short stops. No explicit overnight parking policy or camping facilities are available, limiting extended stays.
Scenic Beauty Review
Surrounded by mountains and water, offering peaceful natural views. The setting is serene and visually appealing year-round. While no dedicated viewpoint exists, the landscape provides ample photo opportunities and a tranquil atmosphere.