Discover the Heart of Kagoshima’s Natural and Cultural Heritage
Kuni-no-Matsubara Osaki is a vibrant roadside station nestled in the southeastern corner of Kagoshima Prefecture, at the crossroads of sea, forest, and community. Located along National Route 220, it serves as a welcoming gateway to the Osumi Peninsula, where pristine landscapes meet authentic local life. More than a mere rest stop, this destination offers a rich tapestry of experiences, from scenic coastal views to deep-rooted traditions.
At the heart of the station lies Asuparu Osaki—a multifunctional complex featuring a restaurant, a serene onsen spa, a cozy lodging facility, and a bustling local market. Visitors can unwind in the open-air bath surrounded by 1 million black pines, savor regional specialties like Kagoshima Black Beef and Unagi rice bowls, or explore nearby attractions such as Kuni-no-Matsubara Park and the scenic Kako Garden. With its blend of natural beauty, wellness offerings, and cultural warmth, Kuni-no-Matsubara Osaki is a true sanctuary for travelers seeking connection and renewal.
Why Visit
Visit Kuni-no-Matsubara Osaki roadside station to experience the region’s only on-site hot spring with an outdoor bath overlooking a grove of 100,000 black pines, a rare natural landmark. Here, you can savor the signature Wajima-style black pork hamburger rice, made with locally raised Kagoshima black pork, and sample the only artisanal milk ice cream in the area, crafted from Jersey cow milk sourced from nearby farms.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor local flavors at Kuni-no-Matsubara Osaki roadside station, where fresh ingredients meet traditional cuisine.
Asuparu Oosaki Restaurant
あすぱる大崎レストラン
Specialty
Local fresh ingredients with a focus on Kagoshima black beef and black pork
A restaurant offering a variety of meals made with fresh local ingredients, including Kagoshima black beef and black pork. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, perfect for a relaxing dining experience.
Shopping Highlights
Discover regional treasures and handmade goods at the roadside station's vibrant market.
Local Products Store
物産館
A retail store offering a wide range of locally produced goods, including food, crafts, and regional specialties.
Products
Must-Try Item
Kagoshima Black Beef Jerky
Kagoshima Black Beef Specialty Store
黒毛和牛専門店
A dedicated shop specializing in high-quality Kagoshima black beef products, including fresh cuts and ready-to-cook meals.
Products
Must-Try Item
Kagoshima Black Beef Jerky
Local Craft and Artisan Shop
工芸品店
A shop showcasing handmade crafts and artisanal products from local artisans.
Products
Must-Try Item
Hand-carved wooden souvenir
Featured Products
Explore signature specialties like鹿児島黒毛和牛 and local delicacies crafted with island pride.
Kagoshima Black Beef Jerky
鹿児島黒毛和牛のたれ漬け
Premium dried beef made from Kagoshima black beef, marinated in a savory sauce and perfect for snacking or gifting.
Local Green Tea
地元の抹茶
Freshly harvested green tea from local farms, known for its rich flavor and vibrant color.
Hand-carved Wooden Souvenir
手彫り木製お土産
A beautifully crafted wooden souvenir made by local artisans, ideal as a keepsake or gift.
Black Pork Sausage
黒豚ソーセージ
Savory sausage made from premium black pork, smoked and seasoned with local spices.
Kagoshima Black Beef Tallow Candle
黒毛和牛の脂燭
A unique candle made from rendered black beef tallow, offering a warm glow and subtle aroma.
Facilities & Amenities
Relax with modern amenities including free Wi-Fi, restrooms, and a spacious parking area.
Parking
The roadside station has a parking area with 129 regular parking spaces and 26 large vehicle parking spaces, including 3 designated for people with disabilities.
At the roadside station premises
Restroom
Restrooms are available at the roadside station, including accessible toilets for people with disabilities.
Throughout the facility premises
Wi-Fi
Free wireless LAN (Wi-Fi) is available at the roadside station.
Throughout the facility premises
Information Center
An information corner provides road information, nearby 'Michi no Eki' details, tourism information, medical information, and details about other nearby roadside stations via flyers and bulletin boards.
At the information corner within the station
Play Area
The station is adjacent to the 'Oosaki Fureai no Sato Park', which offers recreational and play opportunities for visitors.
Adjacent to the roadside station, within Oosaki Fureai no Sato Park
Onsen
The 'Matsuinoyu' hot spring facility at Asuparu Oosaki offers various bathing experiences, including an open-air bath. It operates from 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
Within Asuparu Oosaki
EV Charging Station
An electric vehicle (EV) charging facility is available at the roadside station.
At the roadside station premises
ATM
An ATM is available for visitors' convenience.
At the roadside station premises
Nursing Room
A baby care facility is available for parents with infants, including baby-changing amenities.
Within the facility premises
Insider Tips
Visit early to avoid crowds and enjoy the best views from the nearby scenic overlook.
- Best Arrival Time: Visit the roadside station between 9:00 AM and 10:00 AM on weekdays to access the information corner before it closes at 5:00 PM, ensuring you receive the latest tourism and road condition updates.
- Hidden Gems: Check the shop counter at the物産館 (crafts and local goods store) between 10:00 AM and 11:30 AM to find the limited-edition "Kuni-no-Matsubara Black Pine" themed souvenirs, which are restocked only once daily.
- Weekend Special: On weekends, visit the あすぱる大崎レストラン (Asuparu Oosaki Restaurant) between 11:30 AM and 1:00 PM to order the西郷御前 (Seigo Gozen) special menu, which is only served during lunch hours and features regional ingredients like Kagoshima black pork and local vegetables.
- Best Use of Facilities: Use the rest area (休憩所) between 9:00 AM and 12:00 PM when it is open and staffed, as it provides a quiet space with free Wi-Fi and access to maps of nearby attractions like Kuni-no-Matsubara and Kōka-en.
- Hidden Access Point: Enter the 大崎ふれあいの里公園 (Oosaki Fureai no Sato Park) through the southern gate near the roadside station’s parking area, as it offers direct access to the 100,000 black pine trees and avoids the main entrance crowd.
- Best Time for Local Food: Visit the roadside station’s food area between 4:00 PM and 5:30 PM to purchase freshly made 黒豚ハンバーグ (black pork hamburger) from the on-site kitchen, which are prepared daily and often sold out by 6:00 PM.
- Best Use of Information Services: Ask for the printed tourism brochure at the information corner between 9:00 AM and 11:00 AM, as it includes detailed maps and schedules for nearby attractions like the Saimi Bridge and Yama-Kuni Bridge, which are not available online.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March–May): Canola flowers bloom in late March to April, creating a vibrant yellow landscape; fresh bamboo shoots are available at the market during this period.
Summer (June–August): The resort's outdoor hot spring bath is ideal for cooling off; peak season for local seafood dishes like unagi rice.
Autumn (September–November): No specific seasonal offerings mentioned in the content.
Winter (December–February): The hot spring bath provides warmth during cold months; ideal for relaxation amid the coastal winter climate.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Offers stroller-friendly paths, baby facilities, and a nearby park. Includes a family-oriented restaurant with kid-friendly meals and a relaxing atmosphere for children.
Food Lover Review
Features a well-rated restaurant serving local specialties like Kagoshima black beef and unagi rice bowl, with fresh regional ingredients and a variety of dining options.
Car Camping Review
Provides restrooms, showers, and parking, but lacks designated camping areas. Overnight stays are possible through the hotel, though not explicitly promoted for car camping.
Scenic Beauty Review
Boasts scenic views of 1 million black pines, a natural forest setting, and a nearby scenic viewpoint, enhancing its visual appeal and seasonal beauty.