Discover the Legend of Kyushu’s Giant of the South
Osumi Miyagoro Legend Village stands proudly along National Route 269 in the heart of Kagoshima’s Osumi Peninsula, just minutes from the bustling town of Iwakawa. At its center rises a striking 15-meter bronze statue of Miyagoro, a local folk hero said to be a giant from ancient times, drawing visitors from across Japan. This expansive roadside station spans 20 hectares, blending natural beauty with cultural charm, offering everything from farm-fresh local cuisine to relaxing hot springs.
What sets Osumi Miyagoro Legend Village apart is its celebration of the famed Kagoshima Black Pig—known locally as “Yagorou Pig”—raised with care in pristine surroundings. Guests can savor succulent dishes like black pork shabu-shabu and sukiyaki, or purchase premium cuts and smoked meats from the on-site specialty shop. With a vibrant festival hall, playgrounds, and a peaceful onsen, it’s a destination where history, flavor, and relaxation come together in perfect harmony.
Why Visit
Visit Osumi Miyagoro Legend Village to experience the only roadside station in the region dedicated to the legendary "Yagorou Don" — a towering 15-meter bronze statue of the local folk hero. Here, you can taste authentic Yagorou Pork, a prized black pork from heritage-bred pigs raised in pristine mountain waters, served in signature dishes like black pork shabu-shabu and yagorou sukiyaki. The on-site pork specialty shop offers rare cuts and artisanal sausages, all available by weight — a unique offering found nowhere else.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor authentic local flavors at Osumi Miyagoro Legend Village, where hearty dishes highlight the famed black pork in every bite.
Yagorou Tei
やごろう亭
Specialty
Traditional Japanese cuisine with a focus on local ingredients
A cozy restaurant offering authentic Japanese meals featuring locally sourced ingredients, particularly the famous Yagorou pork. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, perfect for enjoying a leisurely meal in a relaxed setting.
Shopping Highlights
Explore a vibrant marketplace at Osumi Miyagoro Legend Village, brimming with regional crafts and farm-fresh treasures.
Yagorou Noudo-kaichi
やごろう農土家市
A retail market offering a wide variety of local products, including fresh produce, handmade crafts, and specialty food items.
Products
Must-Try Item
Yagorou Pork
Yagorou Pork Specialty Store
黒豚肉専門店
A dedicated store specializing in high-quality Yagorou pork, offering both fresh cuts and processed meats.
Products
Must-Try Item
Yagorou Pork
Featured Products
Discover signature specialties like the renowned black pork, raised with care and celebrated for its rich, tender taste.
Yagorou Pork (Black Pork)
やごろう豚(どん)
Premium black pork raised with care in clean water, quality feed, and a pristine environment. Known for its sweet flavor and tender texture.
Black Pork Sausage
黒豚ソーセージ
Deliciously savory sausages made from premium Yagorou pork, perfect for grilling or cooking.
Black Pork Ham
黒豚ハム
Rich and flavorful ham crafted from the finest Yagorou pork, ideal for sandwiches or as a gourmet snack.
Black Pork Bacon
黒豚ベーコン
Crispy and juicy bacon made from high-quality Yagorou pork, excellent for breakfast or cooking.
Facilities & Amenities
Relax and recharge at Osumi Miyagoro Legend Village, offering clean restrooms, parking, and a soothing hot spring.
Parking
The roadside station has a parking area available for visitors.
Located near the main entrance and throughout the facility grounds
Restroom
Public restrooms are available for visitors. Additional facilities include a disabled restroom.
Throughout the facility grounds
Information Center
An information corner provides guidance on road conditions, nearby roadside stations, tourism spots, accommodations, and medical information. Information is available through staff, maps, brochures, and flyers.
Located within the roadside station premises
Play Area
A playground with play equipment is available for children within the large 20-hectare space.
Within the open recreational area
Onsen
A hot spring bath named 'Yagorou no Yu' is available, open from 9:00 to 20:00.
Located within the facility complex
Nursing Room
A dedicated room for nursing mothers is available for use.
Located within the facility grounds
ATM
An ATM is available for visitors' convenience.
Located within the facility premises
Insider Tips
Visit during the summer festival for lively local culture, and arrive early to enjoy the best of the black pork offerings.
- Best Arrival Time: Arrive by 9:30 AM on weekends to secure a spot at the "Yagorou Nodoto-yaichi" market, where the limited-edition black pork buns are sold out by 11:00 AM
- Hidden Gems: Visit the "Yagorou Ton" specialty shop between 10:00 AM and 11:30 AM to see the daily meat carving demonstration using locally raised black pork
- Weekend Special: On Sundays, the "Yagorou Tei" restaurant offers a 15% discount on the Black Pork Shabu-Shabu Set when ordered before 12:00 PM
- Best Photo Opportunity: Stand directly in front of the 15-meter-tall bronze statue of Yagorou Don between 4:00 PM and 5:30 PM to capture the golden hour lighting with the statue's shadow stretching across the parking lot
- Must-Try Product: Purchase the "Yagorou Pork Wiener" from the "Yagorou Nodoto-yaichi" market before 1:00 PM, as the 100-unit daily batch sells out early
- Timing for Thermal Experience: Enter the "Yagorou no Yu" hot spring before 1:00 PM to avoid the midday crowd and enjoy the full range of outdoor bathing areas before the afternoon rush
- Event-Only Access: On the second Saturday of November, visit the "Yagorou Don Festival" pavilion between 10:00 AM and 12:00 PM to receive a free sample of black pork curry ramen from the festival vendor
Best Time to Visit
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 Osumi Town Summer Festival takes place in August, featuring lively local performances and food stalls.
Autumn (September-November): The Yamakatsu Black Pig harvest season peaks, with special dishes and products available.
Winter (December-February): The Yagorou Festival in November celebrates the legendary figure with cultural events and seasonal food.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Offers a large playground, stroller-friendly paths, and baby facilities. Includes family dining options and educational exhibits about local history, enhancing the experience for children and parents alike.
Food Lover Review
Features a variety of restaurants and a well-stocked farmers market. Highlights local specialty, Sakamaki black pork, with multiple menu options and artisanal processed meats available.
Car Camping Review
Provides clean restrooms and vending machines, with ample parking. Though not designated for camping, it offers a quiet, spacious environment suitable for short overnight stays.
Scenic Beauty Review
Located in a scenic coastal area with panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Offers beautiful natural surroundings and seasonal beauty, enhanced by the large open space and copper statue of Yagorou.