Discover the Heart of Kumamoto’s Agricultural Heritage
Nestled along National Route 3, the roadside station Ryuhoku serves as the northern gateway to the scenic Minamiboso region of Kumamoto Prefecture. Surrounded by lush farmland and framed by the distant silhouettes of the Amakusa Islands and Mount Unzen Fugen, this vibrant stop offers travelers a peaceful retreat rich in local flavor. More than a mere rest area, Ryuhoku is a cultural crossroads where fresh produce, regional traditions, and community spirit converge.
At the heart of the station lies its celebrated offerings: the renowned "Yoshino Pear," famed for its juicy sweetness and available from August through November, along with seasonal specialties like giant pears, pear jam, and pear-based sauces. Visitors can also savor unique local treats such as mochi rice shochu and fresh persimmons. With a bustling farmers’ market, a cozy farm-style restaurant, and a handmade snack workshop, Ryuhoku delivers an authentic taste of rural Kumamoto—one bite, one visit, at a time.
Why Visit
Visit Ryuhoku roadside station to experience the heart of Kumamoto’s fruit country, home to the region’s only certified Yoshino pear orchards, where giant, honey-sweet pears are harvested from August to November. Beyond fresh fruit, the station offers the only mochi rice shochu made from local rice, crafted with deep regional tradition. These unique, limited-edition products, paired with seasonal specialties like taiyaki made with late-season yuzu, are available nowhere else.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor farm-fresh flavors at Ryuhoku roadside station, where seasonal ingredients meet traditional recipes.
Rural Restaurant
農村レストラン
Specialty
Traditional home-style cuisine using local ingredients
A cozy restaurant offering hearty, authentic meals made with fresh, locally sourced produce and regional specialties. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, perfect for a relaxing meal during a road trip.
Shopping Highlights
Discover local treasures at Ryuhoku, where fresh produce and handmade goods await.
Fresh Market
とれたてマーケット
A fresh produce market offering daily harvested vegetables and seasonal fruits directly from local farms.
Products
Must-Try Item
Freshly harvested vegetables
Handmade Snack Workshop
手作りおやつ工房
A cozy workshop specializing in handmade snacks and sweets using local ingredients.
Products
Must-Try Item
Late White Grapefruit Confectionery
Featured Products
Experience signature treats like giant pears and sweet yuzu sweets, crafted from Ryuhoku’s finest harvests.
Giant Pear
ジャンボ梨
A large, sweet pear known for its rich flavor and high sugar content. Grown in the region and popular as a seasonal treat.
Pear Pie
梨パイ
A delicious pie made with fresh local pears, offering a sweet and tender texture.
Pear Jam
梨ジャム
A smooth, naturally sweet jam made from locally grown pears, perfect for spreading on bread or using in desserts.
Pear Sauce
梨だれ
A savory-sweet sauce made from pears, ideal for marinating meats or enhancing the flavor of grilled dishes.
Late White Grapefruit Confectionery
晩白柚もなか
A delicate confection made with late white grapefruit peel and pulp, offering a refreshing and slightly tangy flavor.
Late White Grapefruit Jelly
晩白柚ジュレ
A smooth, fruity jelly made with fresh late white grapefruit juice and pulp, known for its bright citrus flavor.
Late White Grapefruit Dessert Gift Set
晩白柚スイーツギフト
A curated gift set featuring late white grapefruit confectionery and jelly, ideal for gifting or special occasions.
Mochi Rice Shochu
もち米焼酎
A smooth, richly flavored shochu made from locally grown mochi rice, known for its mild and slightly sweet taste.
Late White Grapefruit Jelly and Pudding
晩白柚のぜりーとプリン
A premium dessert set combining late white grapefruit jelly with creamy pudding, offering a balanced sweet and tangy taste.
Large Autumn Persimmon
太秋柿
A large, sweet persimmon known for its crisp texture and high sugar content, reaching up to 18 Brix. A prized autumn delicacy.
Extremely Early Tangerine
極早生みかん
A variety of tangerine harvested early in the season, known for its sweet flavor even when the skin is still green.
Facilities & Amenities
Relax and recharge with comfortable rest areas, clean restrooms, and essential services at Ryuhoku.
Parking
The roadside station has a parking area available for visitors.
Located at the roadside station premises
Restroom
Toilets are available for public use at the roadside station.
Located at the roadside station premises
Information Center
An information corner provides various information including road conditions, nearby attractions, medical facilities, other roadside stations, weather, and disaster alerts through terminals and displays.
Located at the roadside station premises
Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi is available in the rest area, which operates 24 hours a day.
Located in the rest area
EV Charging Station
Electric vehicle charging stations are available for use. Note that maintenance may affect availability.
Located at the roadside station premises
Activities & Experiences
Join seasonal events and hands-on workshops that celebrate Ryuhoku’s farming heritage and natural beauty.
Peach Festival
ひかわまつり
Participate in a local festival celebrating the culture and produce of the region, featuring traditional performances, food stalls, and local crafts.
Duration
120 min
Heralbuna Fishing Tournament
ヘラブナ釣り大会
Join a fishing competition focused on catching Heralbuna fish in the nearby river, offering a fun and relaxing outdoor experience.
Duration
180 min
Best conducted on clear, dry days; avoid rainy or stormy weather.
Pear Marathon
梨マラソン大会
Take part in a themed marathon event centered around the region's famous pear harvest, combining sport and local culture.
Duration
120 min
Event may be postponed in case of heavy rain or high winds.
Walking Event
道の駅竜北ウォーキング大会
Join a guided walking tour through scenic trails near the roadside station, enjoying nature and local landmarks.
Duration
90 min
Wear appropriate footwear and clothing for variable weather conditions.
Insider Tips
Plan your visit around peak harvests and check event schedules for special experiences at Ryuhoku.
- Best Arrival Time: Visit between 9:00–9:30 AM to secure the day’s first batch of fresh-baked milk bread from the bakery, which sells out by 11:00 AM and is not restocked
- Hidden Gems: At the deli counter, look for the limited-run "Beach Juice Set" — a seasonal combo of fresh juice and local honey, available only during October and November
- Weekend Special: On weekends, the "Farmers' Market Corner" opens at 10:00 AM and features rotating local producers; be there by 10:15 AM to buy the day’s first batch of icebox tomatoes and early-season black garlic
- Must-Try Food: Order the seasonal "Clam Broth Set" at the restaurant — it includes a steaming bowl of clam broth served with rice and a side of fresh pickled daikon, available only during the fall months
- EV Charging Tip: Use the EV charging station located near the parking lot’s south entrance; it is only accessible during operating hours (9:00–18:00) and must be reserved via the roadside station’s information terminal
- Best Time to Buy Fresh Fruit: Arrive by 11:00 AM on weekdays to get the first selection of the day’s "Jumbo Pear" — these are hand-picked and displayed at the front of the fresh produce section, with the largest ones sold first
- Insider Access: Visit the information terminal near the entrance between 10:00–10:30 AM to check the real-time update on the "Yuzu Jam" stock — this exclusive item is restocked only once daily and is not advertised elsewhere
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March-May): Enjoy the annual Hibara Festival in March and fresh seasonal vegetables at the roadside station.
Summer (June-August): Visit during the Helebuna Fishing Tournament in April and sample peak-season persimmons.
Autumn (September-November): Experience the Pear Marathon in September and harvest the famous "Jinou Pear" at its peak from August to November.
Winter (December-February): Discover the sweet "Taishu Persimmon" and early "extremely early mandarin" from October onwards.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
No play areas or children's activities are listed, but restrooms and stroller access are available. The farm-to-table atmosphere and seasonal events like the walking festival offer mild engagement for families. Limited kid-friendly food options beyond basic snacks.
Food Lover Review
Features a variety of local specialties including popular 'Yoshino pears', 'mochi rice shochu', and seasonal produce like 'Taishu persimmons'. Fresh market and diverse processed goods enhance the culinary experience. High-quality regional ingredients are emphasized.
Car Camping Review
Offers 24-hour rest area and basic facilities like restrooms and vending machines. No overnight parking policy is stated, and no camping or lodging facilities exist. Quiet surroundings and scenic views support short stops, but not ideal for extended stays.
Scenic Beauty Review
Offers scenic views of the Amakusa Islands and Mount Unzen, with open fields and seasonal landscapes. The roadside station sits in a pleasant rural setting with clear natural surroundings. Limited viewpoints but strong visual appeal.