Discover the Soul of Shikoku’s Historic Heartland
Osugi is a roadside station nestled in the serene hills of Otoyo Town, where the legacy of ancient Japan meets modern rural charm. Located just off the Kochi Expressway at the Otoyo Interchange, it serves as a gateway to one of Shikoku’s most storied regions, rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. More than a rest stop, Osugi is a cultural crossroads, home to the national treasure, the towering Great Cedar, and a tribute to the legendary singer Hibari Misora through her memorial stone and song monument.
Visitors are drawn to its unique blend of heritage and hospitality—enjoy local crafts and regional specialties at the gift shop, savor farm-fresh meals in the restaurant, or explore the on-site museum and information center. With access to hiking trails, scenic viewpoints, and nearby historic sites like the National Treasure Yakushi-dō Temple and the Edo-era Rikawa Watchtower, Osugi offers a journey through time. Whether you're traveling for leisure or seeking connection with Shikoku’s enduring spirit, this roadside station delivers an unforgettable experience.
Why Visit
Visit Osugi roadside station to experience the unique fusion of history and nature centered around Japan’s largest cedar tree, a National Special Natural Monument. Here, you can walk beneath its towering canopy and pay tribute to the legendary singer Hibari Misora, whose memorial stone and song碑 are uniquely preserved on-site. The station also offers the only local specialty: handmade cedar-wood smoked fish, a rare delicacy crafted from traditional methods passed down in the region.
Facilities & Amenities
Enjoy convenient amenities including restrooms, parking, and information centers at Osugi roadside station.
Parking Lot
Standard cars: 20 spaces, Large vehicles: 1 space, Disabled parking: 3 spaces (available 24 hours)
Adjacent to the roadside station
Toilet
Men's toilets: 3 units, Women's toilets: 2 units, Accessible toilets: 1 unit
Inside the roadside station
Information Corner
Offers tourist information and displays about local culture and history, including exhibits on the Great Cedar and Hibari Miyuki.
Inside the roadside station
Park
A recreational area with natural scenery, ideal for relaxation and family outings.
Near the roadside station
Hot Spring
A natural hot spring facility available for visitors to enjoy.
On-site
Shower
Public shower facilities available for visitors.
On-site
EV Charging Station
Electric vehicle charging equipment available for use.
Adjacent to the parking lot
Nursing Room
A dedicated room for breastfeeding and changing diapers, equipped with a changing table.
Inside the roadside station
Pet Area
A designated area for pets, allowing visitors to bring their animals.
Near the park
Activities & Experiences
Immerse yourself in hands-on workshops and seasonal events at Osugi roadside station.
Guided Tour of Historic Sites
豊楽寺薬師堂・旧立川番所書院見学
Participants will take a guided tour of the historic sites including the Toyoraku-ji Yakushi-dō, a National Treasure built in 724 by the monk Gyoji, and the Kurokawa Station Shoin, a National Important Cultural Property from the Edo period that served as a lodging during the sankin-kōtai system.
Duration
90 min
Nature Hiking and Camping
梶ヶ森ハイキング・キャンプ
Explore the seasonal landscapes of Kajigasaki, including hiking trails leading to Ryūō no Taki, one of Japan's top 100 waterfalls, and visiting the rare Hōju-sō (Primula sieboldii) flower fields. Camping is available in the natural setting.
Duration
180 min
Wear appropriate footwear and rain gear for wet or muddy trails.
Sugi Tree Viewing and Cultural Experience
杉の大スギ鑑賞と美空ひばり記念碑見学
Visit the large Sugi tree, a nationally designated special natural monument, and explore the memorial stone and song monument dedicated to the famous Japanese singer Hibari Misora, who had a deep connection with the tree.
Duration
60 min
Cultural Heritage Exhibition
観光資料展示室
Explore exhibits showcasing the history, culture, and heritage of Takaoka Town, including artifacts from the Heian period and information about the region's role along the ancient route from Tosa to Kyoto.
Duration
45 min
Insider Tips
Make the most of your visit with insider knowledge on timing, access, and hidden gems near Osugi roadside station.
- Best Arrival Time: Arrive by 9:30 AM on weekends to secure a spot at the front counter of the souvenir shop, where limited-edition dried persimmons from the local harvest are sold daily and often sell out by 11:00 AM
- Hidden Gems: Visit the small exhibition corner near the entrance to view the original handwritten lyrics of "Kimi ga Soba ni Ite" by Hibari Misora, displayed in a climate-controlled glass case
- Weekend Special: On Saturdays and Sundays, the on-site café serves freshly baked sweet potato rolls from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM—these are made with local sweet potatoes and only available during that window
- Best Photo Spot: Stand directly in front of the giant cedar tree (the "Big Cedar") at noon on a clear day to capture the full length of its shadow stretching across the gravel path, a unique feature noted on the visitor map
- Local Product Tip: Purchase the "Oosugi Forest Honey" at the information desk before 3:00 PM—this seasonal honey is only stocked on weekdays and is not available for sale after 3:30 PM
- Restroom Advantage: Use the accessible restroom located just past the souvenir shop, which features a baby-changing table and is the only one in the station with a full-length mirror and hand dryer
- Cultural Detail: Take the 15-minute walk along the marked path to the Hibari Misora memorial stone and read the full lyrics of her song "Kimi ga Soba ni Ite" engraved on the stone, a rare on-site tribute not listed in general brochures
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March-May): Late March to April features peak canola flower viewing and fresh bamboo shoots available at the market.
Summer (June-August): July brings the best time for hiking and camping at Kajigasen, with lush greenery and cool mountain air.
Autumn (September-November): October offers ideal conditions for viewing fall foliage around the area’s historic sites and trails.
Winter (December-February): January sees snow-dusted views of the giant cedar and peaceful winter walks through quiet countryside.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Osugi roadside station offers a playground, nursing rooms, changing tables, and stroller-accessible facilities. It includes a family-friendly park and interactive exhibits. Child-oriented restrooms and a quiet environment enhance comfort for families.
Food Lover Review
The station features a restaurant, café, and local market with high-quality regional specialties. Fresh produce is available, and the variety of food options includes unique local items. The overall dining experience is enhanced by the cultural context.
Car Camping Review
Osugi provides restrooms, vending machines, and a campsite with basic facilities. Overnight parking is allowed, though not explicitly advertised. The site is relatively quiet and suitable for short stays, though noise levels may vary.
Scenic Beauty Review
The station overlooks natural landscapes with scenic viewpoints and seasonal beauty. The surrounding area includes a large cedar tree, a memorial to Hibari Misora, and nearby hiking trails. The atmosphere is peaceful and aesthetically pleasing.