Station Otsuki

Discover the Heart of Kochi’s Coastal Charms

Otsuki roadside station, affectionately known as "Furepa," is a vibrant gateway nestled along the sun-drenched shores of the Seto Inland Sea in Hata District, Kochi Prefecture. Surrounded by lush landscapes and framed by the sparkling Pacific Ocean, this roadside station offers travelers a true taste of rural Japan. More than a pit stop, it’s a cultural crossroads where local craftsmanship, fresh seafood, and seasonal harvests come together in celebration.

Visitors are drawn to its bustling "Fureai Market," a lively gathering of regional artisans and food vendors showcasing everything from handmade crafts to seasonal treats like the unique "bakukan" dessert and limited-edition early-squeeze mandarin juice. The on-site restaurant, Furepa Dining, features locally sourced ingredients, including grilled beef from Oonishi Ranch. With its warm community spirit, seasonal events, and stunning coastal views, Otsuki is a must-visit destination for those seeking authentic, unforgettable experiences.

Otsuki roadside station stands out for its exclusive access to fresh, hand-pressed mandarin orange juice made from the first harvest of the season—only available in limited quantities each spring. Visitors can also savor the region’s unique bakudan, a local sweet resembling sata anja with a crisp, savory-sweet texture, available only here in two varieties: plain and red bean-filled. These seasonal specialties, crafted from locally sourced ingredients, offer an authentic taste of Otsuki’s agricultural heritage unlike anywhere else.

• Best Arrival Time: Visit on Mondays, Wednesdays, or Fridays between 10:00 AM and 12:30 PM to catch the limited-time bakudan dessert at the Furepa Dining Hall, as it sells out quickly and the kitchen closes early if supplies run out.

• Hidden Gems: Stop by the Furepa Dining Hall on days when the bake shop is open to try the freshly baked milk bread released at 9:30 AM—this bread is only available on the same days as the bakery’s opening and sells out by 11:00 AM.

• Weekend Special: Attend the Otsuki Fureai Market on the third Sunday of each month from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM to sample the limited edition "ban-kan juice"—a premium, 100% juice-only version made from the first harvest of the season, with only 200 bottles available.

• Best Souvenir Purchase: Buy the "Bakudan" sweet—available in plain and anko (red bean) filling—directly from the Furepa Dining Hall; it is not sold at the general souvenir shop and is only offered during seasonal product launches.

• Unique Local Food: Try the oohashi farm's beef skewers and beef tongue at the Fureai Market—these are exclusive to the market and not available for purchase at the roadside station’s regular food stalls.

• Special Event Timing: Visit the roadside station on the first Sunday of May to enjoy the Mother’s Day Flower Fair, where local vendors display fresh flowers and floral arrangements—many of which are only available during this event.

• Best Product Discovery: Head to the Fureai Market and look for Polka, a vendor specializing in Japanese handmade paper goods and washi tape; they only appear at the market and do not sell their items elsewhere on-site.

Spring (March-May): Enjoy limited-edition first-pressed mandarin juice in late April and fresh flower markets around Mother’s Day.

Summer (June-August): Visit during the monthly "Fureai Market" on the third Sunday, featuring local food and crafts.

Autumn (September-November): Not specified in content.

Winter (December-February): Not specified in content.