Discover the Heart of Kyoto’s Rural Craftsmanship
Nestled in the serene countryside of Fukuchiyama City, Agricultural Craftsman Village Yakuno is a vibrant roadside station that celebrates the enduring spirit of local agriculture, artisanal tradition, and natural heritage. Located in the historic Nightokuno area, this destination offers travelers a rare glimpse into the region’s deep-rooted connection with the land.
More than just a pit stop, it’s a cultural gateway featuring the lively Yakuno Highland Market, where farmers sell freshly harvested produce daily. Visitors can savor exquisite traditional sweets like golden gin-tsuba made with 100% black bean paste, explore the ancient art of urushi lacquer craftsmanship at the Yakuno Wood and Lacquer Museum, or uncover fascinating fossils at the Nightokuno Town Fossil and Local History Museum. With year-round accessibility and a commitment to authenticity, this roadside station is a true celebration of craftsmanship, community, and the seasons.
Why Visit
Visit Agricultural Craftsman Village Yakuno to experience the only roadside station in the region where you can sample handmade milk ice cream made from Jersey cows raised in the local highlands—a rare treat crafted from the area’s prized dairy. Here, you can also witness centuries-old Danba lacquer craftsmanship firsthand, with hands-on sessions in authentic urushi painting and the chance to purchase one-of-a-kind lacquerware, a tradition preserved only in this historic village.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor fresh, locally grown flavors at Agricultural Craftsman Village Yakuno's vibrant food offerings.
Yakuno Highland Market
やくの高原市
Specialty
Fresh locally grown vegetables and agricultural products
A market featuring fresh produce harvested daily by local farmers from the Yakuno region, along with processed agricultural products and flowers.
Yakuno Flower Azuki Hall
やくの花あずき館
Specialty
Traditional Japanese sweets made with 100% black bean paste and red bean paste
A specialty shop offering premium wagashi (Japanese confectionery) made with high-quality, locally sourced ingredients, including unique golden-topped sweet pastries.
Yakuno Wood and Lacquer Hall
やくの木と漆の館
Specialty
Traditional lacquerware and hands-on lacquer art experiences
A cultural center dedicated to preserving the 1,300-year-old lacquer harvesting tradition of the Damba region, offering sales, exhibitions, and interactive lacquer art workshops.
Shopping Highlights
Discover unique local goods and seasonal treasures at this roadside station's bustling market.
Yakuno Highland Market
やくの高原市
Sells fresh locally grown vegetables, agricultural products, and processed farm goods.
Products
Must-Try Item
Freshly harvested local vegetables
Yakuno Flower Azuki Hall
やくの花あずき館
Specialty shop offering traditional Japanese sweets made with high-quality black bean and red bean pastes.
Products
Must-Try Item
Golden Tsuba with 100% Black Bean Paste
Yakuno Wood and Lacquer Hall
やくの木と漆の館
Sells traditional lacquerware and offers hands-on lacquer art experiences.
Products
Must-Try Item
Lacquer-painted tableware
Yakuno Fossil and Local History Museum
夜久野町化石・郷土資料館
A museum showcasing fossils and cultural artifacts from the Yakuno region and around the world.
Products
Must-Try Item
Yakunoseras nukatayen ammonite fossil
Featured Products
Explore signature specialties like golden sesame cakes and 100% black bean sweets, crafted with tradition.
Golden Tsuba with 100% Black Bean Paste
黒豆あん１００%金つば
A traditional Japanese sweet with a golden crust and 100% black bean paste filling, known for its rich flavor and delicate texture.
Gin Tsuba with Dabu Daigo Red Beans
丹波大納言小豆がぎっしり入ったぎんつば
A golden-topped sweet filled with abundant Dabu Daigo red beans, known for its sweet, smooth texture and vibrant color.
Lacquer-Painted Tableware Set
漆塗り食器セット
A set of hand-painted lacquer tableware made using traditional Damba lacquer techniques, featuring natural and durable finishes.
Yakuno Ammonite Fossil Replica
夜久野アンモナイト化石レプリカ
A detailed replica of the Yakunoseras nukatayen ammonite, a rare fossil found in the Yakuno region.
Facilities & Amenities
Enjoy 24-hour restrooms, ample parking, and convenient charging stations for a seamless visit.
Parking Lot
Available for ordinary cars (170 spaces), large vehicles (5 spaces), and disabled parking (3 spaces).
On the premises of the roadside station
Toilet
24-hour accessible restroom facilities available at the roadside station.
On the premises of the roadside station
EV Charging Station
Fast charging station available for electric vehicles.
On the premises of the roadside station
Information Center
Information services available at the roadside station, including assistance with local attractions and facilities.
On the premises of the roadside station
Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi access available for visitors at the roadside station.
On the premises of the roadside station
Play Area
Play area available for children, located within the roadside station grounds.
On the premises of the roadside station
Nursing Room
Private nursing room available for mothers with infants.
On the premises of the roadside station
ATM
ATM available for cash withdrawals on the premises of the roadside station.
On the premises of the roadside station
Activities & Experiences
Immerse yourself in hands-on experiences from traditional lacquer art to seasonal farm events.
Sake Cup Painting Experience
そば猪口
Participants will paint traditional Japanese sake cups using colored lacquer, creating their own unique piece.
Duration
60 min
Lacquer Painting Experience
漆の絵付け体験
Attendees will use natural lacquer to paint intricate designs on wooden or ceramic items, learning traditional Japanese lacquer art.
Duration
90 min
Lacquerware Exhibition and Sales
漆器製品の販売やギャラリー展示
Explore and purchase authentic traditional lacquerware crafted using centuries-old techniques from the region.
Duration
30 min
Fossil and Local History Exhibition
夜久野町化石・郷土資料館
View a collection of fossils including the famous 'Yakuno Ceratodus Nakataensis' and other historical artifacts from the region.
Duration
60 min
Local Vegetable Market
やくの高原市
Browse and purchase fresh, locally grown vegetables harvested that morning by regional farmers.
Duration
45 min
Black Bean and Red Bean Confectionery Experience
やくの花あずき館
Taste and learn about traditional Japanese confections made with 100% black bean paste and fluffy red bean paste, including the famous 'Kin Tsu Ba'.
Duration
30 min
Insider Tips
Plan ahead—check seasonal hours and book workshops early to make the most of your visit.
- Best Arrival Time: Visit the yakuno高原市 (Yakuno Highland Market) between 9:30 AM and 10:00 AM on weekdays to get the freshest selection of daily-harvested vegetables, as the market opens at 9:30 AM and often sells out of popular items by midday.
- Hidden Gems: Look for the handmade "Gin Tsu Ba" (golden bean pastries) at the yakno Hanazuki Kan (Yakuno Flower Azuki Hall) — these are made with 100% black bean paste and a delicate crisp coating, available only at the on-site shop.
- Weekend Special: On weekends, visit the yakno Ki to Urushi no Kan (Yakuno Wood and Lacquer Museum) between 10:00 AM and 12:00 PM to attend a hands-on lacquer painting experience, which requires advance booking via phone.
- Timing for Local History: Visit the Yaku no Town Fossil & Local History Museum on a Saturday or Sunday between 1:00 PM and 4:00 PM, as this is when staff are most available to explain the unique "Yakuno Seras Nukatatenze" ammonite fossils on display.
- Best Purchase for Souvenirs: Buy the "Soba Shikigawa" (buckwheat cup) at the yakno Ki to Urushi no Kan — it’s a traditional lacquered cup made from local wood and features a distinctive design unique to the region.
- Avoid Crowds at the Market: Skip the yakuno高原市 on the third Wednesday of the month, as it is the designated rest day, and instead visit on the following Thursday for quieter shopping and full availability of seasonal produce.
- Parking Tip: Use the large parking lot for ordinary vehicles (170 spaces) and head straight to the yakno高原市 entrance on the left side of the main building, as the parking area near the fossil museum is often reserved for tour buses.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March–May): Peak season for fresh bamboo shoots at the market and canola flower viewing in late March to April.
Summer (June–August): Enjoy seasonal farm produce and participate in traditional lacquer art workshops.
Autumn (September–November): Visit during the harvest season for local crops and explore the fossil exhibit.
Winter (December–February): Limited access due to facility closures; check for seasonal events.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Offers a large play area, stroller-friendly paths, and interactive experiences like paint and craft workshops. Kid-friendly food options available, with safe and accessible facilities including restrooms and parking.
Food Lover Review
Features a wide variety of local produce at the Yakuno Highland Market and unique regional treats like gold-coated bean pastries. High-quality, fresh ingredients and artisanal food products enhance the culinary experience.
Car Camping Review
Provides 24-hour restrooms, parking for 170 cars, and vending machines. Quiet surroundings and spacious grounds support overnight stays, though no explicit overnight parking policy is stated.
Scenic Beauty Review
Boasts expansive natural landscapes with seasonal variety and excellent photo spots. The peaceful atmosphere, combined with scenic views of the surrounding countryside, enhances overall aesthetic appeal.