Discover the Heart of Kumamoto at Otsu Roadside Station
Nestled along National Route 57 at the gateway to Aso, Otsu Roadside Station is a vibrant cultural and culinary hub where the spirit of Kumamoto comes alive. Located in the scenic Otsu Town of Kuma District, it serves as a welcoming stop for travelers exploring the region’s natural beauty and rich heritage.
What sets Otsu apart is its celebration of local treasures—from the famed Akagyu beef served at the popular "Akagyu Restaurant Yokayoka" to the beloved specialty of the area: the spicy sweet potato. At the dedicated "Spicy Sweet Potato Shop," visitors can savor unique treats like spicy sweet potato taiyaki and sample fresh produce, including real-time demonstrations of kinpira gobo and horse sashimi. With a well-stocked craft hall, regional food market, and helpful information center, Otsu offers a complete experience of Kumamoto’s culture, cuisine, and community.
Why Visit
Visit Otsu roadside station to experience the only roadside station in Kumamoto where you can savor the region’s signature karaimo (Japanese yam) in unique forms—try the famous karaimo taiyaki at the dedicated karaimo shop, or sample live demonstrations of karaimo dango and wasabi lotus root. Just steps away, the Akagyu Restaurant Yokayoka offers the only on-site, face-to-face sales of premium black-haired Wagyu and fresh horse sashimi, making it a rare culinary destination.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor authentic Kumamoto flavors at Otsu roadside station, where the renowned akagyu beef takes center stage.
Akane Beef Restaurant Yokayoka
あか牛レストランよかよか
Specialty
Specializing in Akane beef, a premium local cattle breed from Kumamoto
A cozy restaurant offering a relaxed dining experience with a focus on high-quality Akane beef dishes, known for their rich flavor and tenderness. The atmosphere is welcoming and ideal for enjoying regional cuisine.
Shopping Highlights
Explore a vibrant mix of local crafts, daily essentials, and regional specialties at Otsu roadside station’s bustling shops.
Karaimo Specialty Shop
からいもやさん
A dedicated shop specializing in Karaimo, a unique local root vegetable from Kumamoto, offering various processed and ready-to-eat products.
Products
Must-Try Item
Karaimo Taiyaki
Kumamoto Specialty Products Market
ふるさと物産よかもん館
A market featuring a wide variety of local agricultural products, crafts, and regional specialties from Kumamoto Prefecture.
Products
Must-Try Item
Kumamoto Akane Beef
Craft and Daily Goods Store
工芸館
A store offering handmade crafts, traditional arts, and everyday household items from local artisans.
Products
Must-Try Item
Kumamoto-style lacquerware
Featured Products
Discover signature treats like spicy taro yakitori and fresh akagyu beef, crafted from Kumamoto’s finest local ingredients.
Karaimo Taiyaki
からいもの鯛焼き
A unique sweet taiyaki filled with Karaimo, a local Kumamoto root vegetable, offering a savory-sweet flavor profile.
Karaimo Dango
いきなり団子
A traditional-style dango made with Karaimo, known for its soft texture and distinctive taste.
Wasabi Lotus Root
からし蓮根
Lotus root slices marinated in wasabi and soy sauce, offering a crisp texture and spicy kick.
Akane Beef Jerky
あか牛のちりめん
Dried beef jerky made from premium Akane beef, perfect for snacking and travel.
Facilities & Amenities
Enjoy convenient amenities including restrooms, parking, information kiosks, and emergency services at Otsu roadside station.
Information Corner
Provides road information, nearby 'Michi no Eki' details, route information, traffic regulations, tourism information including nearby hot springs, medical information such as medical facility names and emergency doctor contacts, and weather information through information terminals, bulletin boards, maps, and flyers.
Inside the rest area and 'Yokamonkan'
Parking
Available for visitors and travelers.
Near the main entrance
Restroom
Public toilets available for visitors.
Near the main entrance
Nursing Room
Facility equipped for mothers with infants, located within the rest area.
Inside the rest area
Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi access available in the rest area and 'Yokamonkan' during operating hours.
Inside the rest area and 'Yokamonkan'
ATM
ATM available on-site for visitors' convenience.
Near the main entrance
Insider Tips
Visit early to avoid crowds, and don’t miss the real-time demonstrations of local delicacies at Otsu roadside station.
- Best Arrival Time: Arrive by 9:30 AM on weekends to secure the daily batch of Karaimo Tako Yaki (potato-based taiyaki) from the dedicated Karaimo Yasan booth, which sells out quickly after 11:00 AM.
- Hidden Gems: Visit the Yokamon Kan (local specialty store) between 10:00 AM and 11:30 AM to catch the live demonstrations of Ikinari Dango (instant dumplings) and Wasabi Lotus Root being prepared and sold.
- Weekend Special: On Saturdays and Sundays, look for the Akaushi Beef Counter in the Akaushi Restaurant Yokayoka where you can purchase Akaushi horse sashimi and black wagyu beef directly from the vendor—these are only available during weekend hours.
- Information Hub Tip: Use the information terminal inside the rest area to check real-time road conditions and nearby Michi no Eki locations, especially when planning to visit Michi no Eki Asahi-shi or Michi no Eki Naniwa.
- Timing for Local Produce: Head to the Karaimo Yasan stall right when the store opens at 9:00 AM to buy fresh karaimo (yam) products such as pickled karaimo and karaimo jam, which are only restocked once daily.
- Best for Road Trippers: Park in the large parking area and use the information terminal to download the route map for the nearby Shojo Garden (Tsubaki Festival) and Eto House, as these are only accessible via specific road detours.
- On-Site Convenience: Use the rest area with the toilet and baby care facilities located near the information corner—it’s the most accessible restroom with changing tables and is open from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March–May): Peak season for fresh bamboo shoots and canola flower viewing in late March to April.
Summer (June–August): Enjoy seasonal from-scratch dishes like from-scratch yakitori and grilled black pork at the roadside station.
Autumn (September–November): Harvest time for karami (spicy yam), with special karami-based treats available.
Winter (December–February): Visit for winter-only seasonal menus and local crafts, especially around the New Year.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Otsu roadside station offers a baby-friendly restroom and stroller access. While no dedicated play area exists, interactive food demonstrations and child-friendly options like tako-yaki with satsuma-imo attract families. Educational elements include local product displays and farming exhibits.
Food Lover Review
Otsu features high-quality local specialties like satsuma-imo takoyaki and Akagyu beef dishes. The satsuma-imo specialty shop and live cooking demonstrations enhance the culinary experience. Fresh produce and regional artisans are well represented in the market.
Car Camping Review
The station provides restrooms, vending machines, and ample parking. However, no overnight parking policy is stated, and the area lacks quietness and comfort for extended stays. No designated camping facilities or shelters are available.
Scenic Beauty Review
Otsu is situated along a scenic highway with views of the surrounding countryside. The area features seasonal beauty, particularly during the azalea festival at Showa Garden. The overall atmosphere is pleasant and welcoming for travelers.