Station Matsuyama

Discover the Heart of Satsuma’s Agricultural Legacy

Matsuyama roadside station stands at the crossroads of history and harvest, nestled along the scenic route between Kushiro and Sibushi in Kagoshima Prefecture. Located just five minutes from the Matsuyama IC on the Miyazaki Expressway and fifteen minutes from Sadowara IC on the Tōkyū Expressway, it serves as a vibrant gateway to the region’s rural charm. Built around the historic site of Matsuyama Castle, the station proudly celebrates the area’s deep roots in agriculture and livestock, turning tradition into a living experience.

Visitors are drawn to its unique blend of culture and cuisine. The striking facility, inspired by samurai armor, houses a popular café offering locally crafted soft serve and crepes made with fresh dairy and regional tea. Beyond treats, the station features a bustling local market, family and group lodging, and spacious outdoor areas perfect for relaxation. Seasonal events like the Autumn Festival and the Buddha Festival bring the community to life, making Matsuyama not just a stop, but a destination.

Matsuyama roadside station stands out for its unique fusion of history and local flavor. Home to the only artisanal milk ice cream made from Jersey cows raised in the region, it offers a creamy, rich treat impossible to find elsewhere. Visitors can also savor handcrafted crepes using locally sourced milk and tea, served beneath a striking building shaped like a samurai helmet—a tribute to Matsuyama’s legacy as the heart of the Yachiku Matsuyama Domain.

• Best Arrival Time: Visit between 9:30 AM and 10:30 AM on weekdays to catch the fresh batch of milk bread from the bakery counter, which is restocked daily and often sells out by 11:00 AM.

• Hidden Gems: At the deli counter inside the "Yachiku Furusato Village & Craft Market," look for the daily special of homemade pickled vegetables made from local farm produce—available only during the 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM window.

• Weekend Special: On the second Saturday and Sunday of November, visit the "Autumn Festival of Yachiku Matsuyama Domain" to see live samurai reenactments and sample traditional domain-era snacks like roasted sweet potato with local honey.

• Best Snack Choice: Order the local milk-based crepe at the main kiosk between 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM, as it uses fresh cow’s milk from nearby farms and is only available during that time slot.

• Souvenir Tip: Purchase the "Matsuyama Domain History Booklet" at the information desk—it includes a map of the former castle grounds and is only sold at the roadside station, not available online.

• Family-Friendly Action: Use the baby-changing station located near the entrance to the rest area, which is equipped with a high chair and is specifically designated for families visiting the nearby Matsuyama Castle Ruins.

• Parking Strategy: Park in the designated "Family and Group" parking zone near the lodging building if you plan to stay overnight or use the multi-purpose field, as it offers direct access to the rest area and the playground.

Spring (March–May): Canola flowers bloom in late March to April, and fresh bamboo shoots are available at the market.

Summer (June–August): The annual Shibusu Port Festival takes place in July, featuring local seafood and cultural events.

Autumn (September–November): The Autumn Festival of Yatchiku Matsuyama Castle Town is held on the second weekend of November.