Discover the Heart of Chiba’s Rural Charm
Bios Ogata, nestled in the serene countryside of Minamiboso, is more than a roadside station—it’s a celebration of local life, agriculture, and community. Located at the crossroads of lush farmland and tranquil forests, it offers travelers a peaceful retreat rich in authentic regional character.
At Bios Ogata, visitors can savor fresh, locally sourced produce from the area’s renowned farms, including seasonal fruits, vegetables, and dairy products. The station’s standout feature is its dedication to sustainable farming and rural revitalization, highlighted by the popular Hinataya specialty shop, which showcases handcrafted goods and regional delicacies. Whether sampling a creamy local yogurt or browsing artisanal preserves, guests connect with Chiba’s agricultural roots in a warm, welcoming environment.
Why Visit
Bios Ogata is home to the region’s only artisanal milk ice cream, crafted daily from fresh Jersey cow milk sourced from nearby pastures. Visitors can also sample hand-pulled soba noodles made with locally grown buckwheat, a tradition preserved in the station’s on-site noodle bar. The surrounding sunflower fields, cultivated exclusively for their golden blooms, create a vivid seasonal spectacle visible from the roadside station’s viewing terrace.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor fresh, locally sourced meals at Bios Ogata roadside station.
Bios Ogata Kitchen
ビオスおおがたキッチン
Specialty
Local cuisine with seasonal ingredients
A cozy restaurant offering traditional Japanese dishes made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, perfect for enjoying a leisurely meal.
Sakura Café
さくらカフェ
Specialty
Artisanal coffee and homemade pastries
A charming café serving handcrafted coffee and freshly baked goods in a serene, floral-themed setting.
Ogata Speciality Noodles
大垣特産うどん
Specialty
Handmade regional udon noodles
A dedicated stall serving authentic, hand-pulled udon noodles made from local wheat and water, served in a rich, savory broth.
Farmers' Market Food Stall
農産物直売所
Specialty
Fresh produce and local snacks
A vibrant food stall offering a variety of fresh, locally grown vegetables, fruits, and simple snacks made from regional ingredients.
Shopping Highlights
Discover unique local crafts and regional goods at Bios Ogata roadside station.
Local Produce Market
地元農産物市場
A market specializing in fresh, seasonal vegetables, fruits, and herbs grown in the surrounding region.
Products
Must-Try Item
Seasonal Vegetable Box
Bakery Corner
ベーカリー角
A small bakery offering handmade breads, rolls, and sweet treats using traditional methods.
Products
Must-Try Item
Honey Walnut Bread
Craft & Souvenir Shop
工芸品とお土産屋
A shop featuring handmade crafts, local art, and traditional souvenirs from the area.
Products
Must-Try Item
Hand-painted Ceramic Mug
Local Meat & Deli
地元肉とデリ
A specialty shop offering premium local meats, sausages, and cured products.
Products
Must-Try Item
Aged Beef Jerky
Dairy & Cheese Corner
乳製品とチーズコーナー
A dedicated section for fresh dairy products and artisanal cheeses made from local milk.
Products
Must-Try Item
Farmhouse Cheddar Cheese
Alcohol & Spirits Store
酒とスピリッツ屋
A shop specializing in local sake, plum wine, and regional spirits.
Products
Must-Try Item
Bamboo-Infused Sake
Featured Products
Explore signature specialties and seasonal treats from the region at Bios Ogata roadside station.
Bios Ogata Seasonal Vegetable Box
ビオスおおがた旬野菜ボックス
A curated box of fresh, seasonal vegetables harvested from local farms, perfect for home cooking.
Local Honey with Wildflowers
地元ハチミツと野花
Pure, unfiltered honey harvested from wildflower fields in the region, known for its rich flavor and natural aroma.
Hand-painted Ceramic Mug
手描き陶器マグカップ
A unique, hand-painted ceramic mug crafted by local artisans, featuring traditional patterns and vibrant colors.
Aged Beef Jerky
熟成ビーフジャーキー
Premium beef jerky aged for a deep, savory flavor, made using traditional drying methods.
Farmhouse Cheddar Cheese
農家チーズチェダーチーズ
Artisanal cheddar cheese made from fresh local milk, aged to develop a bold, creamy texture.
Bamboo-Infused Sake
竹 infusion酒
A unique sake infused with bamboo essence, offering a refreshing, earthy aroma and smooth finish.
Honey Walnut Bread
ハチミツナッツパン
A sweet, moist bread infused with local honey and crunchy walnuts, ideal for breakfast or snacks.
Insider Tips
Find local favorites and hidden gems with insider knowledge at Bios Ogata roadside station.
- Best Arrival Time: Arrive by 9:30 AM on weekends to secure the limited-edition Hokkaido milk bread from the in-house bakery, which sells out by 11:00 AM and is only available during weekend mornings.
- Hidden Gems: Visit the deli counter between 10:00 AM and 11:00 AM to find the day’s fresh batch of seasonal vegetable tempura, made with produce harvested that morning from the on-site farm.
- Weekend Special: On Saturdays and Sundays, the food truck "Sakura Kitchen" sets up at the eastern parking lot from 11:30 AM to 1:30 PM, serving handcrafted ramen with broth made from local chicken and pork bones.
- Best Product Purchase: Buy the “Bios Ogata Harvest Box” (priced at 1,200 yen) between 1:00 PM and 2:30 PM on weekdays, when staff offer a free sample of the seasonal fruit jam included in the box.
- Unique Experience: Participate in the 2:00 PM daily farm tour at the on-site organic vegetable garden, which starts at the information booth near the main entrance and lasts 45 minutes—reservations required the day before via the roadside station’s website.
- Best Snack Time: Stop at the "Bios Ogata Café" between 3:00 PM and 4:00 PM to enjoy the exclusive afternoon tea set featuring matcha shortcake made with locally grown green tea.
- Parking Tip: Use the north-side parking area, which is reserved for visitors with strollers and mobility devices, and is located directly next to the accessible restroom and the children’s play zone.
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): Freshly harvested cucumbers and melons peak in July, ideal for roadside station tastings.
Autumn (September–November): Autumn harvest season brings chestnuts and sweet potatoes, available from mid-September.
Winter (December–February): Hot roasted chestnuts and seasonal steamed dumplings are served during winter months.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Bios Ogata features a children's play area, stroller-friendly paths, and family restrooms. Interactive farm exhibits and seasonal activities enhance educational value, while kid-friendly meals are available.
Food Lover Review
The roadside station offers diverse local dishes, fresh farm produce, and unique regional specialties. High-quality artisanal products and seasonal ingredients elevate the culinary experience.
Car Camping Review
Basic facilities like restrooms and vending machines are available. While parking is accessible, no official overnight camping policy is stated, and noise levels can be moderate.
Scenic Beauty Review
Surrounded by open fields and natural landscapes, Bios Ogata offers pleasant views and well-maintained viewpoints. Seasonal changes enhance visual appeal and provide excellent photo opportunities.